The Pacific Northwest is shaped by extremes; they’re the magical reward at the conclusion of so many popular hikes and drives.
Start with these six, and you’ll understand why we’re so obsessed with our waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest.
Proxy Waterfall, Eugene, OR
Any photographer or geology buff is going to love the Proxy Waterfall near Eugene, Oregon. It’s the best 2-for-1 around as one stream splits into two cascading falls. At first glance it looks like the water pooling at the base seems to disappear, which is partly true. It’s actually sinking through the porous lava in the ground.
Elowah Falls, Columbia River Gorge, OR
Bird-watchers will love Elowah Falls. The amphitheater style of the surrounding cliffs attract birds to the gorge to lay a nest. But beware that during heavy flow seasons (late winter and spring) you might get wet as you look up to spot a bird due to all the mist.
Snoqualmie Falls, Snoqualmie, WA
The stunning shape and colors of Snoqualmie in photographs might give you the impression that it’s remote and difficult to reach. But it’s actually very accessible, with a parking lot that brings you within a few feet of a free viewing area. Once you’re done admiring the falls, you can enjoy the surrounding park or take a bike ride into town.
Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge, OR
When you go chasing waterfalls in the PNW, you really want to find a great view. And one of the best views of a waterfall has to be Multnomah Falls. You’ll likely be greeted by hundreds of fellow waterfall gawkers, but it’s worth your time to navigate the crowds. A little patience on the bridge or one of several viewing platforms and you can still catch a priceless photo.
Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls County, ID
Also known as “The Niagara Falls of the West," Shoshone Falls is where the Snake River takes a 212 foot dive over a horseshoe shaped ledge. This massive waterfall is impressively powerful, but it would be even more so if several dams weren’t blocking water along the way. No matter—it’s still a sight to behold. And you can do so from a shady, grassy area that’s perfect for a picnic with a view.
Tamanawas Falls, Mt. Hood, OR
The crowds pour into hikes around Mt. Hood in the summertime. Tamanawas is certainly popular, but tucked on the east side of the mountain, it’s just far enough away to find occasional solitude. Hikers will cover two relatively flat miles of soft trail. Just before the waterfall there’s a field of jagged boulders that require all hands and feet on deck. This part can be tricky for small children and dogs, but if you don’t mind some scrambling, it can also be a lot of fun. The water of Tamanawas plunges over a 150-foot lava cliff. With the right footwear, you can continue over the slippery rocks and hike behind the falls where the roar of the water is deafening and you’ll be soaked by the heavy mist.