Bringing your furry companion along for a hike to explore waterfalls is not just an outdoor adventure; it’s a bonding experience like no other. Together, you navigate winding forest paths, listen to the soothing sounds of rushing water, and discover the hidden gems of nature. With tails wagging and paws eagerly splashing in crystal-clear pools, your faithful companion turns a simple hike into a shared journey of wonder and joy. This adventure isn’t just about chasing waterfalls; it’s about creating lasting memories and enjoying the great outdoors with your beloved four-legged friend.

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1. Multnomah Falls 🐾

If this is your first time visiting Oregon, make sure you have Multnomah Falls on your list. It is located in the Columbia River Gorge and is the tallest waterfall in Oregon with a height of 620 feet. It’s one of the most visited waterfalls in Oregon so expect to see locals and tourists. Its recommended to visit in the weekdays or early mornings for a more peaceful experience since it can get overcrowded. There is a short path that leads you to the view of the base of the waterfall a few steps from the visitor center which makes it wheelchair accessible and family friendly. If you want a bit of a challenge you can hike to the top of Multnomah Falls which is approximately a 2.4 miles round trip. This hike includes steep sections and switchbacks which depending on your level of fitness can be moderately strenuous. To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience make sure you do your research on weather, trail, and road conditions.

Other Details:

Dog friendly? Yes, leashed dogs.
Parking? Yes, via Interstate 84, Exit 31.
Restroom? Yes, there is a restroom at the visitor center near the lower level of Multnomah Falls.
Fee? No, I visited in the cool months of year 2021 and there was no fee. However, there has been some updates recently regarding booking $2 permits during summer season due to limited parking. To ensure a pleasant visit, please visit: https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10089144?tab=booking for more information regarding fees or shuttle information.

Other Trails you can explore in the area:

• Wahkeena Falls to Fairy Falls
• Angel’s Rest Trail
• Horsetail Falls Trail
• Devils Rest Loop
• Latourell Falls
• Ecola Falls

2. Latourell Falls 🐾

Latourell Falls is another beautiful waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge area of Oregon within Guy W. Talbot State Park. Latourell Falls drops approximately 224 feet and consists of 2 levels: The lower level and upper level. It’s a popular spot but it doesn’t get as overcrowded as Multnomah Falls. The picture above is the upper level of Latourell Falls.

Lower level of Latourell Falls

The lower level of Latourell Falls, you will see the water tumbling over a cliff with bright yellow lichen, making this waterfall unique. It is visible at the parking lot which makes it easy for anyone to access. It’s a 1 mile loop hike that also gives you views of the historic bridge from the bottom. Trail is to the right in between the the parking lot and the historic bridge which allows you to get pretty close to the waterfall. I personally saw the lower level from a distance on my way to hike the upper level of Latourell Falls since that’s the waterfall I found more fascinating.

Upper level of Latourell Falls

Upper Latourell Falls is approximately a 2 mile loop. The trail can be found in front of the parking lot to the left of the information sign. The trail takes you a couple of steps uphill to a viewpoint of lower Latourell Falls(seen in the picture of lower level Latourell Falls). Once you reach that view, on your left you continue going uphill and within a couple of minutes you can see lower Latourell Falls from another point of view. This trail then leads you to a forest with mossy trees before you reach the waterfall. Once you reach the waterfall make sure to take in the views and take some pictures close up to the waterfall or from the bridge(seen in the picture above). From my experience, there were less people hiking this trail compared to lower Latourell Falls. I recommend this hike if you are like me that doesn’t like overcrowded hikes and prefers more peaceful hikes.

Other Details:

Dog friendly? Yes, leashed dogs.
Parking? There is a parking lot and can also park on the side of the road passing the historical bridge.
Restroom? Yes, there is a restroom in front of the parking lot.
Fee? No, I went in the summer and there was no fee. However, please keep in mind that fee policies can change over time, and it’s possible that there have been updates or changes in park fees since my visit. To ensure the most current information, please check out the official website of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

3. Proxy Falls 🐾

Proxy Falls, one of Oregon’s most stunning waterfalls situated within the Three Sisters Wilderness area of the Willamette National Forest. A memorable hike you won’t forget. You will find yourself hiking through and alongside ancient lava fields that lead you to a green mossy forest before reaching the majestic Waterfall. You will come across a sign with options to hike to upper Proxy Falls or lower Proxy Falls. The most popular one that you most likely have seen across social media is Lower Proxy Falls. I recommend making this one your priority and if you have time feel free to check out upper Proxy Falls. Hiking to lower Proxy Falls is about an hour or less and about 2 hours if you decide to check out upper Proxy Falls as well. A short unique hike with beautiful views, this waterfall is definitely worth checking out regardless of skill level. Do take in consideration that you’ll come across uneven terrain, sharp rocks, steep downhill as well as go over some slippery logs or rocks to get a closer look of Proxy Falls. If its a bit too risky and unsafe for you, you can also see a great view of Proxy Falls from the trail. Make sure you come prepared and check for weather and road conditions before visiting Proxy Falls.

Other Details:

Dog friendly? Yes, leashed dogs.
Parking? There is parking on the side of McKenzie Highway road
Restroom? Yes, there is a restroom on the side of McKenzie Highway Road in front of the trails entrance
Fee? Yes, need a recreation pass or can purchase a day pass. However, please keep in mind that fee policies can change over time, and it’s possible that there have been updates or changes in park fees since my visit. To ensure the most current information, please check out the official website of the Willamette National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/willamette/recarea/?recid=4458.

4. Tamanawas Falls 🐾

If you happen to be in the Mount Hood, Oregon area and are looking for a moderately challenging hike, make sure to check out Tamanawa Falls. Its about a 3.5 mile out and back hike that takes you past wooden bridges, through a lush green forest along cold spring creek. You will experience beautiful views and calming sounds of the creek’s water flowing. This hike is doable for beginners and families but do note that when you get near the waterfall, there is some rocks you have to walk over on your way there and back. You will do fine if you are wearing proper shoes and are careful. I was wearing converse and made it without injury. Once you reach the waterfall you will be happy you overcame that small obstacle. You can get quite close to the waterfall to take a couple of great pictures with the waterfall in the background. You can also go behind the waterfall by crossing over a couple more rocks. Take precaution if you choose to do so as the rocks may be slippery.

Other Details:

Dog friendly? Yes, leashed dogs.
Parking? Yes, in front of the trail.
Restroom? Yes, there is a restroom at the parking lot.
Fee? Yes, a recreation pass. However, please keep in mind that fee policies can change over time, and it’s possible that there have been updates or changes in park fees since my visit. To ensure the most current information, please check out the official website of the Mt. Hood National Forest:https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood/recarea/?recid=53300.

5. Abiqua Falls 🐾

Abiqua falls, my favorite waterfall in Oregon. A breathtaking and enchanting 92-feet waterfall framed by a stunning basalt amphitheater-like formation. A serene waterfall where you can connect deeply with nature. You’ll hear the soothing sounds of water flowing and feel the mist of water touching your skin while breathing in the fresh air. This hidden gem is definitely worth seeking. Hiking to Abiqua Falls was truly an adventure of a lifetime, with that being said if you like adventure this is one I recommend.

Abiqua Falls, a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. This is a moderately challenging hike about 0.8 miles or more going one way and same distance going back depending where you park. You will find yourself hiking on steep and uneven terrain, going over rocks and trees and climbing down ropes to reach the waterfall. One thing to note is the road to drive to get to Abiqua Falls can be rocky, muddy, and wet with potholes depending on the time you visit. Its recommended to drive a 4WD but if you don’t, drive carefully and only go as far as you feel comfortable. I personally drove a Toyota Corolla and parked at the crooked Finger OHV parking area. From the parking area I walked down a very steep road for a while and just followed the road before I reached the white sign that reads “Private property… public use”(took about 40 minutes). Do note that it is located on private property but open to the public so please be respectful so it can continue to remain open. Also note that the trail is not well marked so if its your first time visiting you can get lost. Once you reach the white sign, go to the trail that has trees (left side) not the perfect paved road (right side). Here is where you will encounter going over a couple of trees to then climb down a trail using the ropes. Once you make it to the bottom, you walk for about 15 more minutes along rocks to finally reach the hidden treasure you been seeking.

Other Details:

Dog friendly? Yes.
Parking? Yes, varies.
Restroom? No, I did not see any restrooms when I visited.
Fee? No. However, please keep in mind that fee policies can change over time, and it’s possible that there have been updates or changes in park fees since my visit. Also keep in mind that some trailheads or parking areas near Abiqua Falls may require a Northwest Forest Pass or a day-use fee.