Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southwestern Washington is home to some of our favorite trails and views and it is generally far less traveled than the other national forests in close proximity to Portland. We had both come across photos of Falls Creek Falls recently - so the hike was high on our long list of new places to explore. We weren't sure what to expect as neither of us had read much about it. I had never expected, though, that it would be the most awe-inspiring waterfall I have ever come across.
We wake to partly sunny skies Sunday and are on the road by a little before 8:00 am. The drive through the Columbia River Gorge is beautiful. We see dozens of fishing boats on the water - something we have not seen at all since last summer. Spring is indeed upon us after a long and rainy winter. We cross the Columbia at the Bridge of the Gods, taking in stunning views of the Gorge.
We arrive at the trailhead and find only four other cars in the lot, to my delight. Although it is really not possible to have complete solitude while hiking within a few hours of Portland (and I certainly don't expect that!) we have learned that starting early is key. It is a bit chilly when we start and I am reminded that layers are also key when hiking in the Pacific Northwest. Luckily, we set a good pace and warm up quickly.
Crossing Falls Creek
The trail begins along the rushing Falls Creek and winds through a young forest. I wander down a short side trail to get closer to the creek and for a moment I am reminded of our hike along Opal Creek back in February. After about a half mile we cross a suspension bridge to the north side of the creek. The forest is more mature here - old growth giants grace us with their presence. Some sun makes its way through the thick trees, gently touching the forest floor. We are alone.
We cross another footbridge and round the bend in the trail. We know the waterfall must be near as we can hear it thundering in the distance. Soon, I can see the top tier of the waterfall - hundreds of feet above. We pass a hiker resting on a rock. Multiple times she says, "it's so beautiful."
Before we know it, we are at the falls. It is massive and stunning. Sunlight hits the top tier and the light is illuminated by mist from the roaring water. I half expect a pterodactyl to soar by. No, really. This place is other-worldly.
The creek thunders over three tiers, plunging 207 feet. The falls is spectacular. A few weeks ago my camera broke so I am stuck with my iPhone. I attempt to capture the entire length of the falls but cannot. I don't care - no photo can do this place justice. You'll just have to see for yourself.
We hike up a ways to see the upper tier of the falls. On its own, this would be an impressive waterfall.
After what feels like an hour of soaking up the grandeur of Falls Creek Falls we return the way we came to head back to a connector trail that leads steeply above the creek. Now, we pass multiple groups of hikers - and are once again thankful we started early so we could enjoy views of the falls in relative solitude for a brief moment.
We hike along the upper trail for a few miles. We run into a couple who had spent the night up the trail at a campsite along a cliff edge. Although the view of the falls here is minimal the sound of the falls crashing a few hundred feet below is prominent and we enjoy a sweeping view of the valley under sunny skies.
The trail continues along the upper section of the creek and we see a few more campsites. We decide that Falls Creek Falls is our favorite waterfall in the Pacific Northwest. I know we will be back.
“As long as I live, I’ll hear waterfalls and birds and winds sing. I’ll interpret the rocks, learn the language of flood, storm, and the avalanche. I’ll acquaint myself with the glaciers and wild gardens, and get as near the heart of the world as I can.”