Bridal Veil Falls
Oregon • 120 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
70 ft
About Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is a picturesque, two-tiered waterfall tucked into the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, dropping about 120 feet. The falls sit within the Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint (designation: SREC) on land owned by SPR and managed by the City, making it an easy and rewarding stop for a short outing or a scenic photo break. A favorite for families and casual hikers, the site offers a short approach to a viewing platform that frames the falls and the surrounding forest. The combination of quick access, dramatic drops, and well-signed day-use facilities makes Bridal Veil Falls a reliably scenic destination for visitors exploring the Gorge.
The Setting
Bridal Veil Falls sits at 177 feet within Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint, fed by the Bull Run River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon. At 120 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Oregon.
Height: 120 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Wahkeena Falls (242 ft) lies 2.9 miles to the east. Also nearby: Latourell Falls (224 ft, 2.2 mi) and Coopey Falls (150 ft, 0.9 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 70 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Bridal Veil Falls is a 0.5-mile out-and-back route with about 70 feet of elevation gain and an easy difficulty rating. The path is well-maintained and descends gently through a forested corridor to a viewing platform overlooking the double-tiered cascade. Suitable for most visitors, the short, easy grade and clear footing make it family-friendly and accessible for those looking for a brief, scenic hike.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 120 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bridal Veil Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bridal Veil Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery when wet, so exercise caution. Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
32 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
4.07 ft
Water depth at gauge
57°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 57 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BULL RUN RIVER BLW BULL RUN RES 2, NR BULL RUN, OR (12 km away).
Today
Moderate
27 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
27 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, rain showers likely (trip score 5/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Washougal hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Bridal Veil Falls is located off the Historic Columbia River Highway, approximately 30 miles east of Portland, Oregon. The trailhead is well-marked and accessible from the Bridal Veil State Scenic Viewpoint parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking lot at Bridal Veil State Scenic Viewpoint. Parking is free but can fill up quickly during peak times.
Elevation
177 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.554314° N, -122.180237° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or holidays. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy after rain. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
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For this easy 0.5 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn Troutdale-Portland East
Skamania Lodge
Bonneville Hot Springs Resort & Spa
Mt Air Motel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
EAGLE CREEK OVERLOOK GRP SITE
13.5 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Eagle Creek Overlook Group Site is set on a forested bluff above the Columbia River, providing an ideal setting for family gatherings and group events. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s as a place to view construction of the Bonneville Dam, this site features CCC masonry and offers expansive views of the Columbia River and mountains rising from the gorge.Recreation The Eagle Recreation Area, just a short walk or bike ride away, provides visitors with opportu
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Wahkeena Falls, all located within the Columbia River Gorge.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Bridal Veil Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Bridal Veil Falls
24 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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