Looking for an easy, family-friendly waterfall hike near Portland? Wahclella Falls in the Columbia River Gorge is a must-see. Here’s how to plan your trip — with tips, trail info, and family favorites from Nomad-ish.
A Place That Holds Our Story
Ten years ago, we stood beneath the misty spray of Wahclella Falls, surrounded by our closest friends and family, saying our wedding vows in one of Oregon’s most magical corners.
This summer, we returned — this time with four little trail companions in tow: ages eight, six, three-and-a-half, and one (snug in the hiking backpack). Watching them discover the same mossy canyon where our story began was pure joy. They noticed everything we’d missed before — the way the tree sap glistened in the light, how the rocks formed tiny fairy nooks, and the axolotls darting through the clear pools.
Where we once saw grandeur, they found wonder in the details. And that’s what makes family travel so beautiful — our kids slow us down just enough to see old places with brand-new eyes.
Experience our full Nomad-ish adventure on YouTube:
Wahclella Falls Family Hike | Taking Our Kids Back to Where It All Began
In this episode, we explore the magic of Wahclella Falls and share practical tips for hiking Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge with kids. Hit play, grab your coffee, and come along for the ride!
Trail Overview
Trail Name: Wahclella Falls Trail
Location: Cascade Locks, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Distance: 1.9 miles round trip
Time: About 45 minutes each way
Difficulty: Easy
Restrooms: Two port-o-potties at the trailhead
Parking: Small lot at the trailhead (fills quickly) + overflow parking along the road
Pro tip: If the lot is full, drop one parent and the kids at the trailhead, then park in the overflow area to avoid a long roadside walk with little legs.
Our Experience on the Trail
We hit the trail late morning (because getting four kids out the door early is… a sport). The path was shaded and cool, winding past the rushing creek toward the canyon. Though the viewing area at the falls was crowded, the trail itself felt peaceful.
The kids stopped often — tossing pebbles, dipping toes in the icy water, and collecting stories as they went. One brave wildling even took a full swim in the frigid pool below the falls. We unpacked snacks, lingered for a while, and just let them play.
The falls themselves were just as awe-inspiring as we remembered — a thundering ribbon of water framed by mossy cliffs and soft mist. For us, it wasn’t just another stop on our Oregon itinerary; it was a homecoming.
Tips for Hiking Wahclella Falls With Kids
Go early if you want fewer crowds (especially on weekends).
Bring snacks and water — it’s an easy hike, but little ones will want breaks.
Pack extra clothes if your kids love water — that pool is cold, but irresistible!
Keep an eye out for small wildlife like axolotls, newts, and interesting fish in the pools.
Watch your footing near the falls — it can get slick from the mist.
Visit in summer or fall for the best weather. Winter can be muddy, and parts of the trail may close after heavy rain.
A Note About the Landscape
You’ll still see traces of the Eagle Creek Fire that swept through the area a few years ago, but the forest has rebounded beautifully. New growth is filling in the charred edges, and nature’s resilience is on full display.
Where to Stay: Hood River Family Favorites
While Wahclella Falls is an easy drive from Portland, we prefer staying in Hood River for a slower, more outdoorsy vibe. A family-friendly Airbnb is usually the best bet — bonus points if it comes with a view of Mt. Hood or Mt. Adams.
We’ve found Hood River to be one of Oregon’s most family-friendly base camps, with plenty to do between hikes.
More Family Adventures Around Hood River
If you’re extending your trip, here are a few of our favorite nearby stops:
🌊 Waterfalls
Multnomah Falls: Iconic, but crowded — worth a stop if it’s your first visit.
Latourell Falls: Gorgeous and slightly less busy.
Tamanawas Falls: A bit farther, but stunning and usually quieter.
🍒 Local Eats & Treats
Mt. Hood Winery: Great views, easygoing vibe, and space for kids to run.
The Fruit Company: Perfect for snacks and local goodies.
Solera Brewing (Parkdale): Fantastic views and outdoor seating — ideal lunch stop.
Solstice Wood Fired Pizza (Hood River): Grab a pie, then walk to the waterfront park.
🏞️ Play & Explore
Hood River Waterfront Park: Play structures, a beach for swimming, and front-row seats to watch wing-foilers.
White Salmon, Washington: Just across the bridge — the kids loved watching white-water rafters along the river.
🎡 Seasonal Fun
Check local listings for events — we lucked into the 4th of July parade and festivities, which made our stay extra memorable.
Travel Notes
Parking at Multnomah Falls now costs $20, so plan accordingly.
Car naps are gold. A drive up toward Mt. Hood doubles as a scenic tour and quiet time for tired travelers.
Local cherries and hazelnuts make the best Oregon souvenirs (and road-trip snacks).
Final Thoughts
Returning to Wahclella Falls felt like closing a circle — from newlyweds chasing waterfalls to parents watching our kids splash in the same stream. The trail reminded us that adventures don’t have to be far-flung to be meaningful.
Sometimes, revisiting the places that shaped you becomes the best kind of journey — especially when you bring your little explorers along for the rediscovery.
About Nomad-ish
We’re the Hannah family — explorers at heart, road-tripping our way through childhood and parenthood one school break at a time. Nomad-ish is our ongoing adventure to see the world, make memories, and remind families that travel doesn’t have to wait until “someday.”
Follow along on YouTube and Instagram for more family adventures, travel guides, and real-life stories from the road.
Exploring the world, one school break at a time.
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