Wahkeena Trail (#420)


Area Status: Open
Fairy falls

Wahkeena Trail offers a 2.8 mile hike filled with lush scenery, Columbia River views, glimpses of waterfalls, and charming historic stonework. It begins just west of Wahkeena Falls viewing platform, south of the Historic Columbia River Highway. The trail climbs to a stone bridge which crosses Wahkeena Creek before beginning a rapid ascent through a series of switchbacks, which receive spray from the waterfall. In the winter, ice along this section can be treacherous, and unlike nearby Multnomah Falls, the trail is not closed when icy so hikers should come prepared with traction devices.  

Fairy Falls (pictured) is one of this trail's most popular stopping points. Located 1.1 miles up the trail, Fairy Falls plunges only 20-30 feet but offers a charming example of a fan type waterfall.   

Wahkeena Trail is often combined with the lower 1.2 miles of Larch Mountain Trail #441 (area is unavailable) and the Return Trail for a 4.8 mile loop. The elevation changes can make it a rigorous hike, but its views and waterfalls are hard to beat so the trail system tends to be crowded all summer. 

Wakheena can be used to create a variety of other loops, due to its access to Vista Point Trail #419, Angel's Rest Trail #415, and Devil's Rest Trail #420C. Hikers should come prepared with the Ten Hiking Essentials, including an up-to-date map showing topographic features. 

Wahkeena Falls courtesy of Oregon State Archives Newly constructed bridge over Wahkeena Creek

At a Glance

Fees: No fee
Usage: Heavy
Restrictions: Motor vehicles and bikes are prohibited. Fires not allowed within 200 feet of trail.
Closest Towns: Cascade Locks, OR; Corbett, OR; Troutdale, OR
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

General Information

Directions:

Wahkeena Falls Day Use/Picnic Area/Trailhead is 0.5 miles west of Multnomah Falls along the Historic Highway. 

Download or Print a Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop Trail Vicinity Map:

Vicinity map showing trail locations and linkages. Select for a larger view.


Activities

Day Hiking

The steep ascents and elevation gains make this a difficult hike, but the trail is well maintained and offers a number of options for day hike routes. As an out-and-back hike, Wahkeena Trail is a 2.8 mile return trip with waterfalls and great views. Combined with the lower stretch of Larch Mountain Trail at Multnomah Falls and the Return Trail, it can be a thrilling 4.8 mile loop. For a full day of hiking, head up to Devil's Rest, a 7.3 mile round trip hike. Be sure to bring the Ten Hiking Essentials, including an up-to-date map showing topography, as there are unofficial trails in this popular area of the Gorge that can be confusing.

Backpacking

Wahkeena Trail intersects several other trails, which can be combined to provide several different backpacking experiences.  Please consult an up-to-date map showing topographic features when backpacking, as unofficial trails in the area can be confusing. 

Viewing Scenery

Two waterfalls, Wahkeena and Fairy, are visible along this trail, as well as many views of the Columbia Gorge, through a fire scorched forest.