Columbia River Gorge
05/15/2011
When I think of spring, I think of verdant landscapes covered with new growth. I think of mountain snowmelt and the waterfalls it creates. And I think of the Columbia River Gorge. On its relentless journey to the Pacific Ocean the Columbia River carves a canyon through the Cascade Range providing an endpoint for a myriad of waterfalls tumbling down the mountain slopes.
Skirting the Oregon side of the gorge is state route 30; a 70 mile stretch of road better known as the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway. And for my money it is one of the most scenic drives is America. With numerous viewpoints, waterfalls spilling to the roadway, and trails leading to greater access; there’s an inexhaustible supply of photo opportunities.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
My favorite section of the highway is from Crown Point Vista eastward to Ainsworth State Park. To get there take I-84 east from Portland for 20-25 minutes until the Corbett exit 22. Along the highway traveling east, one of the first waterfalls you’ll come to is Latourell Falls. Though not immediately adjacent to the road, at 249 feet tall it’s easily viewed from the parking lot; or even better, follow a short paved path for a more up close and personal vantage point.
Latourell Falls
Continuing eastward past Bridal Veil and Wahkeena Falls is Multnomah Falls. Towering a magnificent 620 feet, this is the most impressive falls in the gorge. But with a visitor center, gift shop and food, it’s also the most crowded area along the highway. My suggestion, arrive early.
Multnomah Falls
Shortly after Multnomah Falls you’ll see a pullout for Oneonta Gorge. At first blush, the gorge may seem unassuming. But get out of your car, throw on a wetsuit, and hike up the canyon about a third of a mile and you’ll change your mind. Though just over a half mile round trip, you may never take a hike more splendid or adventurous. It’s one of my all time favorites.
Oneonta Gorge
At the end of the gorge of course, is Lower Oneonta Falls. At only 100 feet in height, it’s certainly not the most imposing waterfall in the area, but definitely the most rewarding.
Lower Oneonta Falls
The next major pullout will be for Horsetail Falls. You can’t miss it because you’ll likely drive right through its water spray. As lovely as it is, the reason I always stop is to take the quick hike up to Ponytail Falls (also known as Upper Horsetail Falls). A short but steep hike, round trip is just under a mile.
Ponytail Falls Trail
One of the prettiest waterfalls in the gorge, Ponytail is a favorite among many photographers. But perhaps its coolest feature is the trail which leads you behind the falls and out the other end. On a hot day this can be one of the most refreshing hikes you take.
Ponytail Falls
This is just a small, though representative sample of what the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area has to offer. And while it’s beautiful year round, the spring is when it really shines. Allow yourself several days, drive safely, and hike responsibly.
Photo Tips:
Waterfalls within a forest should always be photographed under cloudy skies. If it’s sunny, keep your camera in your bag, take in the view and simply enjoy. Otherwise you’ll be disappointed with your results.
If you want your waterfalls to resemble the silky appearance in these photos, you’ll need to use a slow shutter speed. You can achieve a slow speed with either a low ISO setting, or by placing a polarizer or neutral density filter on your lens–or both. But regardless of your method, unless you want a fuzzy image, you’ll need to first invest in a tripod and trigger release.
