Wahclella Falls Trail - Cascade Locks, OR
Wahclella Falls Trail – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Cascade Locks, Oregon
Wahclella Falls Trail, located in spectacular Cascade Locks, Oregon, is a favorite destination for pet owners seeking scenic adventure with their furry friends. This pet-friendly trail is well known for its breathtaking waterfall, beautiful mountain scenery, and the tranquil sounds of Tanner Creek meandering alongside the path. The hike is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible for most hikers and their leashed dogs, and it features a 1.8-mile loop with a rewarding plunge pool at the falls. The area is especially popular in summer months, so parking can fill up quickly; early arrival is recommended, with overflow parking available nearby.
While not a traditional dog park with fenced areas or agility equipment, Wahclella Falls Trail remains a top dog-friendly hiking spot in the Columbia River Gorge. Dog owners will enjoy plentiful shade from the lush forest, a well-maintained trail, and lots of opportunities for their dogs to explore the sights and smells of the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to keep your dog leashed, bring your own water, and pack out what you bring in, as amenities are limited. This trail is a true gem for those looking for a mix of natural beauty and dog-friendly adventure near Cascade Locks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must be kept on-leash while on the Wahclella Falls Trail.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there are no fenced dog areas on this trail.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must remain on a leash throughout the hike.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? No, there are no drinking fountains available, so be sure to bring water for your dog.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, much of the trail is shaded by the forest canopy.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available near the parking area.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small main parking lot at the trailhead and a larger overflow parking lot up the hill if the main lot is full.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The trail is very popular on weekends and during the summer, so parking fills quickly; early arrival is recommended.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Wahclella Falls Trail connects to other local hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge area.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? While dogs aren’t permitted in the falls themselves, some dogs and owners enjoy wading in the creek on hot days – always follow posted rules and leash laws.
Reviews
Beautiful hike, beautiful falls. I’m 65, my daughter 33 and we managed just fine. Took our time. We loved it.
We went late afternoon and found parking fine but I bet it can be challenging to find parking earlier in the day.
This is one of my most favorite spots in the whole Columbia River gorge. Limited parking: have a Forrest pass or you’ll have to pay a fee. In the summer it can get crazy busy.it is beautiful.
Wahclella Falls is one of my all-time favorite hikes in the Columbia River Gorge. It’s a very popular hike and the parking area fills up fast, especially when the weather is nice. The hike is relatively easy and follows a 1.8-mile (2.9 km) loop trail that parallels Tanner Creek. The beginning of the trail passes within a couple feet of Munra Falls on a short footbridge. Further along, the trail crosses over Tanner creek on two wooden footbridges. The first footbridge provides a great view of the steep canyon walls. The second footbridge is just below Wahclella Falls and crosses above a huge logjam which is the result of the 2017 Eagle Creek fire. Wahclella Falls are split into an upper and lower segment. The upper falls are somewhat hidden however the lower falls are quite spectacular with water gushing through a narrow basalt gorge into a beautiful plunge pool.
Very beautiful waterfall with a fairly easy hike. The trail itself isn’t hard by I’d say about 45 minutes of walking to an hour depending how fast you are. The parking lot in front of the trail is very small for about 8 cars only. Unless you’re lucky or arrive early you don’t park there. Make a u-turn and park up the hill where there’s a big lot but will add 10ish minutes of walking. The waterfall and trail itself are stunning. Rivers, mountains , and boulders everywhere you look. I went in early August and the waterfall still have a good amount of water. Many people went inside the water which looked very refreshing since it was a hot day. Definitely visit if in the Columbia river area.
As an out of state wanna be hiker this was very doable for me but still deemed moderate. Total on my GPS watch it was 2.2miles. It was breath taking and can’t wait to do it again one day! Do not hesitate to go. Please make sure you bring good traction shoes as it would be helpful.