Mist Falls

Oregon

Mt. Hood National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

Whatknot CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

hiestand24 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

kirknelson CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Ben Laufer CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Mist Falls

Mist Falls is a compact, photogenic cascade tucked into the forests of Mt. Hood National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Its cool spray and lush, green surroundings make it a refreshing reward for a short outing—an easy-to-love spot for photographers and hikers who want a close-up of the falls without a full-day commitment. The setting feels intimate and forested, with tree-shaded approaches that highlight the mist and moss around the drop. Access to Mist Falls is on the USFS Larch Mountain Trail, Trail 441. The standard approach is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, so the hike delivers a satisfying climb and payoff without being overly long. Because the route is managed by the Forest Service and follows native-material tread, expect a natural, sometimes steep trail with short pitches—perfect for hikers looking for a classic national-forest waterfall experience.

USFS Trail

LARCH MOUNTAIN #441

Trail Class

Highly Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

0.05 mi

Trail Description

Trail: Larch Mountain (USFS Trail 441). Type: out-and-back, 2.4 miles total. Elevation gain: 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Surface: native material (natural tread). USFS class: 4. Typical grade: 12–20%. The tread is predominantly natural and can be uneven and rooted in places, with short, steeper sections consistent with the listed 12–20% grade. The trail is well-defined but offers a more rustic footing than paved or heavily engineered paths, so hikers should be prepared for natural surfaces and moderate climbs. GIS miles for the mapped segment to the falls are recorded as 0.05 miles.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a serene and scenic experience with the sound of rushing water and the refreshing mist from the falls. The area is surrounded by moss-covered rocks and vibrant greenery, typical of the Columbia River Gorge.

Accessibility

The trail is relatively short and easy, but it may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain.

Seasonal Closures

The trail is generally open year-round, but access may be limited during winter months due to snow or ice.

Safety Information

The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Stay on designated paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls. Watch for poison oak in the area.

Location & Access

Getting There

Mist Falls is located along the Historic Columbia River Highway, near the town of Bridal Veil, Oregon. It is accessible via a short walk from the road.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is limited roadside parking available near the trailhead. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Elevation

577 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.573869° N, -122.130820° W

Land Management

Mt. Hood National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

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.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

EAGLE CREEK OVERLOOK GRP SITE

10.8 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

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

Book on Recreation.gov