Wah Gwin Gwin Falls

Oregon

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area NSBV · DESG

Photo Credits (5)

Bill Badzo CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

A. F. Litt CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

jennypdx CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Drive Up

Trail Length

0.1 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

50 ft

About Wah Gwin Gwin Falls

Wah Gwin Gwin Falls—also called Lullaby Falls—is a dramatic waterfall of Phelps Creek that tumbles roughly 207 feet (63 m) down a steep rocky chute into the Columbia River Gorge just south of Hood River, Oregon. The cascade sits on the grounds of the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel, where the falls run beside a terrace built along the back edge of the hotel, creating one of the Gorge’s most photographed hotel-side vistas. The site lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, though the property itself is privately owned (DESG).

Height: 208 feet

Trail Description

There is no public USFS trail to Wah Gwin Gwin Falls—the waterfall is on private Columbia Gorge Hotel property and is typically viewed from the hotel’s terrace and grounds. The on-site approach listed in local trail data is extremely short (about 0.1 miles round trip) with approximately 50 feet of elevation change and is described as a drive-up/out-and-back type viewpoint rather than a maintained Forest Service hiking trail. No USFS trail number applies; visitors should respect private-property access rules and enjoy the falls from designated hotel viewing areas.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a dramatic waterfall plunging into the Columbia River Gorge. The falls are best viewed from the hotel grounds, which also offer manicured gardens and scenic vistas of the surrounding area.

Accessibility

The falls are accessible from the hotel grounds, which include paved paths and viewing areas. Accessibility may vary depending on specific needs.

Seasonal Closures

The falls are accessible year-round, but access may be restricted during private events at the Columbia Gorge Hotel.

Safety Information

Visitors should stay on designated paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of the gorge. The falls are located on private property, so respect all posted signs and guidelines.

Location & Access

Getting There

Wah Gwin Gwin Falls is located on the grounds of the Columbia Gorge Hotel in Hood River, Oregon. Visitors can access the falls by visiting the hotel, which is located off Westcliff Drive, just a short drive from downtown Hood River.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Columbia Gorge Hotel for guests and visitors. Availability may be limited during peak times.

Elevation

220 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.711910° N, -121.553718° W

Land Management

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area NSBV

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Consider dining or staying at the Columbia Gorge Hotel to fully enjoy the experience. Be respectful of the private property and follow any posted guidelines.

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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

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

Moss Creek campground

7.2 miles away · 17 sites

Reservable

Overview Located in the southeast corner of the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest and close to Columbia River Gorge, Moss Creek Campground sits alongside the Little White Salmon River. At an elevation of 1,400 feet, the campground is shaded by a thick canopy of hemlock, cedars, firs and maples. Moss Creek is ideal for those wishing to escape the summer heat.Recreation The Little White Salmon River offers rainbow and brook trout for anglers. Visitors can enjoy wading in the cool waters. Facilities T

Book on Recreation.gov