I 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
- Mileage: 1.5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Popularity: Moderately popular, gaining more attention
- Dog Friendly: Yes, but dogs should be kept on a leash
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
- Backwoods Brewing Company
- Cuisine: Craft beer, pub food (burgers, sandwiches, salads, wood-fired pizza)
- Atmosphere: Relaxed, family-friendly brewpub with outdoor seating
- Carson Café & Grocery
- Cuisine: American diner classics (burgers, breakfast, sandwiches)
- Atmosphere: Casual, small-town diner with friendly service
- The Grind Espresso and Deli
- Cuisine: Coffee, espresso, breakfast burritos, pastries, sandwiches
- Atmosphere: Cozy, local coffee shop with grab-and-go food options
- The Waffle Tree
- Cuisine: Belgian waffles with sweet and savory toppings, coffee
- Atmosphere: Quaint, small café specializing in waffles and espresso drinks
The Best Food in White Salmon Washington
- Everybody’s Brewing
- Cuisine: Pub food (fish tacos, burgers, salads, sandwiches)
- Atmosphere: Lively brewpub with great views of the Columbia River Gorge
- North Shore Café
- Cuisine: Coffee, espresso, smoothies, breakfast burritos, sandwiches
- Atmosphere: Casual coffee shop and café with a local vibe
- White Salmon Baking Co.
- Cuisine: Artisan bakery offering pastries, bread, and wood-fired pizzas
- Atmosphere: Cozy bakery with outdoor seating, known for fresh, handmade products
- Henni’s Kitchen & Bar
- Cuisine: Farm-to-table, global cuisine (tapas, seafood, steak, pasta)
- Atmosphere: Upscale-casual with seasonal, creative dishes
My Favorite Food in Hood River Oregon
- Solstice Wood Fire Pizza
- Cuisine: Wood-fired pizza, salads, sandwiches
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly, riverside restaurant with outdoor seating
- Double Mountain Brewery & Taproom
- Cuisine: Craft beer, pizza, salads, sandwiches
- Atmosphere: Popular brewery with a laid-back vibe and river views
- Broder Øst
- Cuisine: Scandinavian-inspired brunch (smørrebrød, aebleskivers, gravlax)
- Atmosphere: Cozy, modern brunch spot with a unique Scandinavian twist
- KickStand Coffee & Kitchen
- Cuisine: Coffee, espresso, breakfast and brunch dishes (avocado toast, bowls, waffles)
- Atmosphere: Trendy café with a full brunch menu and patio seating
- River Daze Café
- Cuisine: Coffee, espresso, sandwiches, soups, salads, baked goods
- Atmosphere: Casual, cozy café with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
Other Trails Worth Visiting Close to Spirit Falls
Dog Mountain
- Mileage: 6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
- Popularity: Very popular, especially during wildflower season (spring to early summer)
- Dog Friendly: Yes, but dogs must be on a leash
- Description: This steep trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge and an abundance of wildflowers in the spring. The path can be challenging due to its steepness and crowds. Multiple viewpoints along the way offer scenic rest stops. Best hiked during cooler months due to minimal shade.
Mount Adams Ice Caves
- Mileage: 1.5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal (mostly flat)
- Popularity: Moderately popular
- Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs allowed
- Description: A short and easy hike that leads to a series of ice caves formed by Mount Adams’ lava tubes. The caves stay cold year-round, making it a unique experience even in summer. Hikers can explore the caves, but caution is advised as the ice can be slippery. The trail is accessible for most hikers and offers a different experience than typical forest hikes.
Little Crater Lake
- Mileage: 0.7 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Popularity: Moderately popular, especially for families
- Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs allowed on a leash
- Description: This short, flat hike leads to a stunningly clear, spring-fed lake with vibrant blue water. The lake is small but incredibly deep, and the trail provides easy access to views of the lake. Great for a quick visit or picnic stop. The area is surrounded by peaceful meadows and forests.
Zigzag Falls
- Mileage: 0.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Popularity: Less popular, a hidden gem
- Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs allowed on a leash
- Description: A quick and easy hike to a scenic waterfall nestled in the forest near Mount Hood. The trail is family-friendly and well-maintained, making it accessible for all skill levels. The falls are impressive, and the mist offers a refreshing break on a warm day. A great trail for a peaceful nature walk.
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.