Waterfalls

Spirit Falls in Washington State
Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Waterfalls

Spirit Falls: My Favorite Waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge

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Spread the loveI learned about this not-so-popular waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge through the whitewater community. Spirit falls is one of the illusive waterfalls that all kayakers in Washington aspire to run, but only the most dedicated paddlers will ever be skilled enough to do this. Luckily for the rest of us, you can hike down to see the falls by following a short trail. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might get to watch a few kayakers throw themselves over Spirit Falls. This post will go over everything you need to know about hiking to Spirit Falls. Spirit Falls Trail Overview Trail Description For Spirit Falls Spirit Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the Columbia River Gorge. It’s known for the bright blue water hidden in the gorge. The trail to the falls is short but steep and can be challenging, especially on muddy or wet days. The trail is narrow and involves some scrambling, making this a trail that I don’t usually recommend to beginners. The reward for this trail is reaching Spirit Falls, where the waterfall is falling over basalt rocks into a pool of bright blue water. While the waterfall might not look huge, when I see it I think it’s massive. Each time I look at the falls i’m thinking of the few kayakers who throw themselves off of this 33 foot waterfall. Only a few of the best kayakers in Washington state are experienced enough to run the Little White Salmon and this waterfall drop. There’s limited space at the viewpoint near the falls, so if you’re visiting on a busy day, expect to share the area with other hikers and photographers. However, the short, steep hike tends to keep crowds manageable compared to more accessible trails in the Columbia Gorge. Spirit Falls is best visited during the spring and fall when the water flow is at its most impressive, though it remains a beautiful spot year-round. Be mindful of the trail conditions, as the route can become slippery and dangerous after rain. Proper footwear is important, and caution is advised near the falls, as the area around the water is steep and slick. While Spirit Falls is dog-friendly, keep your pets close as the trail can be narrow with steep drop-offs in places. Food Near Spirit Falls Where to Eat in Carson Washington The Best Food in White Salmon Washington My Favorite Food in Hood River Oregon Other Trails Worth Visiting Close to Spirit Falls Dog Mountain Mount Adams Ice Caves Little Crater Lake Zigzag Falls Conclusion Spirit Falls offers a truly unique hiking experience in the Columbia River Gorge, with its striking turquoise waters and the added thrill of watching kayakers tackle the waterfall. Though it may be challenging to reach, the reward is well worth the effort for nature lovers and photographers alike. With its steep trail and serene surroundings, it’s an adventure that offers both tranquility and excitement. Whether you’re visiting for a day hike or exploring the nearby towns for great food, Spirit Falls is a destination that showcases the beauty and adventure of the Pacific Northwest. The nearby trails and eateries in Carson, White Salmon, and Hood River provide plenty of options to round out your trip, making it a perfect day getaway or weekend excursion. If you’re looking for more hikes in the area, the scenic options nearby like Dog Mountain and Little Crater Lake won’t disappoint either.

View of zigzag falls from the bottom of the waterfall
Destinations, Hiking, Waterfalls

Zigzag Falls

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Spread the loveOne of my favorite places to visit in the Pacific Northwest is Mount Hood. It sits just south of the southern Washington boarder about an hour east of Portland Oregon. The entire Mount Hood Wilderness Area is beautiful and screams PNW! Plus, this area of Oregon is famously known for its mass amount of waterfalls. Every time i’m in Oregon I try to visit a new waterfall, and recently on one of these trips I went to see Zigzag Falls. I was initially intrigued by the photos of the falls, and when I found out how easy the trail was I knew I had to stop by! This post will share a guide to visiting Zigzag falls and other activities, food, and lodging in the area. Overview of Zigzag Falls The Trail to Zigzag Falls The hike to this Oregon waterfall is one of the easiest trails you can find in the area. There’s only 0.6 miles of trail to navigate and 101 ft of elevation gain, which really just means that this trail is short and flat. It’s suitable for people of all ages and ability level. The hiking trail to Zigzag falls follows along the Little Zigzag river until you reach the waterfall. This river is incredibly clear and beautiful to sit along and soak in the views. You’re surrounded by tall trees, mossy rocks, and lush greenery along your entire walk to the falls. When I did this hike in mid July the entire trail was lined with fresh huckleberries ready to be eaten! It was fun getting to break every few steps and eat these tasty berries. Once you get to the waterfall, there’s a nice viewing area for you to take in the water flowing down this steep rock face. There’s also a bench that you can snag if someone else hasn’t gotten to it first! This is where the previously mentioned 0.6 mile trail ends, but if you’re feeling adventurous you can continue up above the falls. My group of hikers only went to the top of the falls, but it looked like the trail continued up the river for a ways. Make sure you are a confident hiker before climbing up over this area, I would consider the water above the waterfall as a no-fall zone. Magic in the Air: The Negative Ions I learned about Zigzag falls by talking to locals in the town of Welches. Multiple people recommended the hike to this waterfall due to the negative ions in the air here. Negative ions are molecules that have gained an extra electron, giving them a negative charge. They are abundant in natural environments, particularly around moving water, such as waterfalls, oceans, and rivers. These ions are believed to have a range of positive effects on human health and well-being. The continuous movement of water over the rocks at Zigzag Falls creates a natural process called ionization. When water molecules collide, they split and release negative ions into the air. The result is an environment rich in these beneficial ions, especially around the base of the falls where the mist is thickest. Believed Benefits of Negative Ions Food Nearby When I visited Zigzag falls I was staying in an Airbnb in the nearby town Rhododendron. There was a surprising amount of food in this area, and a couple of places I highly recommend you check out. 1. Chicali Cantina The food at Chicali Cantina was amazing! This is a local Mexican restaurant with a ton of options for tacos, burritos, salsas, and more. 2. Mt.Hood Baking Company Mt Hood Baking Company has an amazing 5 star score on Google! They’re one of the only bakeries in this area unless you travel into the nearby town of Sandy. They serve coffee and a variety of baked goods for you to enjoy. 3. Zigzag Mountain Cafe If you’re looking for a meal a little closer to Zigzag falls, the Zigzag Mountain Cafe is an affordable and delicious option. They’re known for their home cooked breakfast and pizzas! Other Trails Near Zigzag Falls Zigzag falls is just one of many hikes near Mount Hood. This area of Oregon is packed full of iconic trails worth seeing. Below are a few of my favorites. Conclusion If you’re searching for an easy and rewarding hike near Mount Hood, Zigzag falls is an amazing option. Spend some time soaking in the negative ions and enjoying the views at this amazing waterfall. If you liked this post, you might also like..

Rafters going over husum falls in White salmon Washington
Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Most Popular Hiking Trails in Washington State, Waterfalls

Top 5 Must See Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

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Spread the loveThe Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a Pacific Northwest playground. Hikers traverse dramatic trails, windsurfers carve across the river, and rock climbers tackle sheer cliffs. But perhaps the most iconic feature of the gorge is its abundance of stunning waterfalls. Each with its own unique personality, these cascading marvels offer a breathtaking spectacle for visitors year-round. Now, onto the main event: chasing waterfalls! Here are five must-see cascades within the Columbia River Gorge, each offering a unique adventure: Multnomah Falls The undisputed crown jewel of the gorge, Multnomah Falls boasts a staggering 620-foot drop. A short, paved trail leads to an observation deck right behind the lower falls, offering a mesmerizing perspective. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. While Multnomah Falls is accessible year-round, the winter can bring icy conditions. For a more strenuous adventure, tackle the Multnomah Falls Loop Trail, which ascends behind the falls for even more impressive views. Tunnel Falls Nestled within the lush greenery of Eagle Creek State Park, Tunnel Falls requires a moderate 4.6-mile hike. The highlight? The aptly named Tunnel Falls, where you can walk behind the cascading water via a short tunnel carved into the cliffside. This waterfall is best visited during spring runoff when the water flow is at its most dramatic. It’s important to note that due to recent wildfires, some sections of the Eagle Creek Trail may be closed, so check current conditions before you go. Punchbowl Falls Deeper within Eagle Creek State Park lies Punchbowl Falls, another gem accessible via a moderate 4.8-mile hike. The reward? A cascading waterfall plunging into a large, green-hued pool, perfect for a picnic or a refreshing dip (during permitted times). Similar to Tunnel Falls, Punchbowl Falls is best enjoyed during the spring when the water flow is strongest. Panther Creek Falls This 120-foot waterfall offers a convenient and scenic stop along the Historic Columbia River Highway. A short, paved trail leads to a viewing platform, making it perfect for families with young children or those seeking an easily accessible waterfall experience. Panther Creek Falls is beautiful year-round, but the spring brings wildflowers that add a colorful touch to the landscape. Falls Creek Falls Located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, Falls Creek Falls requires a moderate 4.6-mile out-and-back trail. While the hike itself is lovely, the true star of the show is the 250-foot waterfall cascading through a scenic gorge. This waterfall is best visited during the spring runoff for maximum water flow. Whether you seek a gentle stroll behind a cascading curtain or a challenging hike rewarded by a hidden gem, the Columbia River Gorge has a waterfall adventure waiting for you. So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to be awestruck by the power and beauty of these cascading wonders. The History of the Columbia River Gorge Native American tribes inhabited the region for millennia, and Lewis and Clark’s expedition documented its wonders in the early 1800s. The scenic majesty of the gorge led to a tourism boom in the late 19th century, with the construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway further boosting its popularity. Today, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area attracts millions of visitors each year, eager to experience its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. If you liked this post, you might also like..

Deception Falls sign
Hiking Trail in Washington State, Washington State Parks, Waterfalls

Deception Falls Washington

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Along the up Highway 2 drive you’ll pass by many different hiking trails, with few that I wouldn’t recommend stopping at. One of these nature areas you can stop to enjoy is Deception Falls State Park. Deception Falls State Park is one of Washington’s hidden gems. With walking trails, waterfalls, and old growth forest – Deception Falls State Park has it all. In this post I will be talking about all of the reasons I love this Washington State Park.

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