Are there fees or permits required for Upper Latourell Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Upper Latourell Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Upper Latourell Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Upper Latourell Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,230 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Upper Latourell Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Upper Latourell Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Upper Latourell Falls.

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

George W. Joseph State Natural Area SCA · SPR

Photo Credits (5)

im me CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Ian Sane CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

www78 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

rickcameron CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

www78 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Loop

Elevation Gain

620 ft

About Upper Latourell Falls

Upper Latourell Falls is a striking two-tiered cascade tucked into the Columbia River Gorge, framed by mossy basalt cliffs and dense, fern-lined forest. The upper falls offers a quieter, more secluded experience than the lower tier, with close-up views of the rock formations and verdant slopes. The site sits within the George W. Joseph State Natural Area (designation: SCA), with land owner listed as SPR and managed by the city. Wikipedia notes that Latourell Falls lies along the Columbia River Gorge and that the Historic Columbia River Highway passes nearby; the lower falls are visible from the road and a parking lot and path were constructed at the base to aid visitors. Access to the upper tier is via the Latourell Falls Loop, which most sources place at roughly 2.1–2.4 miles round-trip with about 620 feet of elevation gain. The hike climbs through stands of Douglas-fir and maple, crosses wooden footbridges and rocky steps, and rewards hikers with several basalt-carved viewpoints. The route is rated moderate with some steep sections, making it a great half-day outing for hikers with average fitness; the nearest campground is the Eagle Creek Overlook Group Site, about 25.8 km away.

The Setting

Upper Latourell Falls sits at 689 feet within George W. Joseph State Natural Area, fed by the Sandy River, in the foothills of Oregon.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Wahkeena Falls (242 ft) lies 5.4 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Latourell Falls (224 ft, 0.5 mi) and Coopey Falls (150 ft, 3.5 mi).

Wahkeena Falls Latourell Falls Coopey Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile loop trail gains 620 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Latourell Falls Loop Trail — approximately 2.4 miles total, 620 ft elevation gain, difficulty: moderate, trail type: loop. Trail surface and conditions vary: packed forest tread, rocky steps and short scrambles, and wooden footbridges across small gullies. The grade is overall moderate with a few short steep pitches; the route is non-technical but includes uneven and rocky sections. The well-maintained loop provides viewpoints for both Lower and Upper Latourell Falls and starts from the parking area off the Historic Columbia River Highway.

What to Expect

Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Upper Latourell Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Latourell Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfalls are at their fullest due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience, though trails may be icy or muddy.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or during winter months. Stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls. Watch for loose rocks and roots along the trail.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Moderate

1,230 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1.2k 1.7k 3.5k 4.1k

Based on 81 years of record

8.98 ft

Water depth at gauge

53°F

Cold

Bracing — limit time in water

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a bracing 53 degrees F, limit your time in the water.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

SANDY RIVER BLW BULL RUN RIVER, NR BULL RUN, OR

USGS 14142500

5.7 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 436 sq mi

Altitude: 240 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Troutdale hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Upper Latourell Falls is accessed via the Latourell Falls Loop Trail, which begins at the Guy W. Talbot State Park parking area. The trailhead is located off the Historic Columbia River Highway, approximately 30 miles east of Portland, Oregon.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at Guy W. Talbot State Park. The lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.

Elevation

689 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.530459° N, -122.221220° W

Land Management

George W. Joseph State Natural Area SCA

Managed by CITY

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and muddy. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the fall and winter months.

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With 2.4 miles and 620 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.

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

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

16.0 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