Wahkeena and Fairy Falls
I know, I know - another weekend, another waterfall. We're spoiled. The hike up past Wahkeena falls to Fairy Falls provides plenty of scenic variety and is easily manageable for little hikers.
Temporarily closed for restoration
This trail is currently closed in the wake of the 2017 wildfires. Restoration is in progress.
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The Wahkeena Falls Trailhead is 2.4 miles beyond I-84’s Exit 28 (Bridal Veil) on the Historic Highway.
Pros
- Plenty of variety in terms of views throughout the hike… and after the initial climb, the trail alongside the Wahkeena Creek is incredibly pretty.
- Just over two miles there and back, albeit up and down 800′.
- One of our nearest waterfalls.
Cons
- Steep(ish) ascent warning: not far past Wahkeena Falls, 12 switchbacks take you up 600′ in half a mile.
- One of the more popular Gorge hikes, so don’t expect peace and solace.
in the area
Continue just a little further east down the Historic Highway to Multnomah Falls for refreshments. Or to see Multnomah Falls!
if you like this…
My favorite Gorge waterfall hikes remain Latourell Falls and Wahclella Falls – both beautiful, very manageable and a little quieter.
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First posted: May 28, 2014; last updated: September 13, 2018.
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Historic Columbia River Highway [Google map].
This thing to do was suggested by
Greg Newland – thank you!
Vox Populi
The good people of Yelp have posted 64 reviews of Wahkeena and Fairy Falls with an average rating of 5 out of 5.
