Ponytail Falls
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.8 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Ponytail Falls
Ponytail Falls is a picturesque 75-foot cascade tucked into California’s Klamath National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Set among dense forest, the falls make for a rewarding short outing — an inviting spot for hikers who want a quick nature escape without a long climb. The setting is classic Klamath NF country: quiet, wooded, and scenic. Access to the falls follows the USFS COOK AND GREEN Trail (Trail #959). While that trail is inventoried at 7.27 GIS miles in the Forest Service database, the common approach to Ponytail Falls is a short, easy 0.8-mile out-and-back with about 200 feet of elevation gain. This makes the hike suitable for families or as a pleasant side trip while exploring the national forest under USFS management.
Height: 75 feet
USFS Trail
COOK AND GREEN #959
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
7.27 miTrail Description
Trail: COOK AND GREEN Trail (USFS Trail #959) — managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Klamath National Forest. Surface: native material (natural dirt tread). Class: 3 (USFS classification). Length: approximately 0.8 miles (out-and-back to the falls). Elevation gain: ~200 feet. Average grade: ~4.7%. Difficulty: easy. Trail type: out-and-back. The COOK AND GREEN Trail is inventoried at 7.27 GIS miles in the USFS database, with the short spur to Ponytail Falls providing direct access via native-material tread and moderate, short pitch sections.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a short hike with a rewarding view of Ponytail Falls. The highlight is the ability to walk behind the waterfall, offering a unique perspective and photo opportunities. The area is surrounded by lush greenery typical of the Columbia River Gorge.
Accessibility
The trail to Ponytail Falls is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and elevation gain.
Seasonal Closures
The trail is generally open year-round but may close temporarily due to severe weather, maintenance, or wildfire risks.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery near the falls due to mist. Exercise caution and stay on the designated path. Watch for falling rocks near the waterfall.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ponytail Falls is accessible via the Horsetail Falls Trailhead, located off the Historic Columbia River Highway. The trailhead is approximately 35 miles east of Portland, Oregon.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a parking lot available at the Horsetail Falls Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
4439 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.931895° N, -123.128708° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes as the trail can be wet and slippery near the falls. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Bring a rain jacket or waterproof gear if you plan to walk behind the falls, as you may get wet from the mist.
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For this easy 0.8 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Harr Point Campground
7.2 miles away · 0 sites
Campground is on the east shore of Applegate Lake and is accessible only by the Payette Trail #970 or by boat. Persons accessing this site by boat may find current information about lake levels helpful. This is a semi-primitive site.Facilities5 campsites (tent-sites) with picnic tables, and fire pitsNo drinking waterVault toiletNo garbage disposal - Please pack it out
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Explore California springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ponytail Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ponytail Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions that require caution.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Horsetail Falls, Multnomah Falls, and the Oneonta Gorge.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
