Celilo Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Celilo Falls (historical)
Celilo Falls was a historically significant waterfall located on the Columbia River in Oregon. It was a major fishing and cultural site for Native American tribes for thousands of years. The falls were submerged in 1957 following the construction of The Dalles Dam, which created Lake Celilo. While the falls are no longer visible, the area remains an important cultural and historical site.
The Setting
Celilo Falls (historical) sits at 161 feet within Lake Celilo, fed by the Deschutes River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Celilo Falls (historical) is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
There is no trail to Celilo Falls as the waterfall is submerged. Visitors can explore nearby historical markers and viewpoints to learn about the site's history.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to find interpretive signs and historical information about Celilo Falls and its significance to Native American tribes. The falls themselves are no longer visible due to the creation of Lake Celilo.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Celilo Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Celilo Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The site can be visited year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the surrounding area.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the river as currents can be strong. Follow all posted signs and guidelines.
Current Water Conditions
4,590 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
2.95 ft
Water depth at gauge
59°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 59 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DESCHUTES RIVER AT MOODY, NEAR BIGGS, OR (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
4590 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
4600 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
4611 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
4611 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
4580 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
4569 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
4590 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early May, peaking in April.
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 Wishram hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Celilo Falls was located near The Dalles, Oregon, along the Columbia River. Today, the site is submerged under Lake Celilo, which can be accessed via Interstate 84. The general area is marked by historical plaques and interpretive signs.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at nearby viewpoints and historical markers along the Columbia River.
Elevation
161 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.649845° N, -120.978956° W
Land Management
Managed by USACE
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of the Columbia River and nearby landmarks. Take time to read the interpretive signs to understand the cultural and historical importance of the site.
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For this easy 0.1 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
Balch Hotel
Celilo Inn
Horsefeathers Hotel
Columbia River Hotel and Conference Center, an Ascend Collection Hotel
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
Columbia Hills State Park
6.2 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of The Dalles Lock and Dam, Lake Celilo
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Celilo Falls (historical), Oregon
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Rock Creek Hot Springs
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Celilo Falls (historical), Oregon on SoakingSprings.
Explore Oregon springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Dalles Dam, Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, and other viewpoints along the Columbia River.
Wildlife
The area around the Columbia River is home to various bird species, fish, and other wildlife.
Nearby Waterfalls
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