Wallalute Falls
Oregon • 124 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Wallalute Falls
Wallalute Falls is a striking 124-foot cascade on Compass Creek tucked into the north slopes of Mount Hood in Hood River County, Oregon, sitting at about 4,879 feet elevation. Although many older maps have mistakenly labeled the falls on the Eliot Branch of the West Fork Hood River, reliable sources now place Wallalute on Compass Creek — a canyon over from where it was long shown. The setting is rugged, forested and decidedly remote, offering dramatic views and a rewarding destination for hikers who make the trek. The falls and its approaches lie within Mt. Hood National Forest and are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Access routes commonly make use of the USFS Eliot Glacier Trail (Trail #600X) for part of the approach. For overnight stays, Sherwood Campground is the nearest developed option, roughly 6.95 km away, making Wallalute Falls a great day trip or part of a longer Mt. Hood outing.
The Setting
Wallalute Falls sits at 4,925 feet within Mt. Hood National Forest, fed by the Bull Run River, in the mountains of Oregon. At 124 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Oregon.
Height: 124 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Sahale Falls (140 ft) lies 6.4 miles to the south. Also nearby: Ramona Falls (120 ft, 6.2 mi) and Tamanawas Falls (100 ft, 3.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Eliot Glacier (#600X), a 4.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 800 feet of elevation gain with grades of 8-10%. The trail is minimally developed (Class 1).
USFS Trail
ELIOT GLACIER #600X
Trail Class
Minimally Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.16 miTrail Description
The typical approach to Wallalute Falls is an out-and-back of about 4.0 miles round trip with roughly 800 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. A short USFS-managed segment used on the route is the Eliot Glacier Trail (Trail #600X): Class 1, surface composed of native material, with a typical grade of 8–10% and a GIS-recorded length of 0.16 miles. Expect natural tread and uphill pitches on that segment — the native surface can be uneven in places — and note that historical map mislabeling has placed the falls in the neighboring canyon, so follow Compass Creek references when navigating to the waterfall.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 124 feet. 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 Wallalute Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Wallalute Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Mt. Hood National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be aware of potential hazards such as loose rocks, slippery surfaces, and fallen trees. Check for trail closures or warnings from the U.S. Forest Service before your visit. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your hiking plans.
Current Water Conditions
25 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
1.25 ft
Water depth at gauge
44°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Wallalute Falls is located in the Mount Hood National Forest. Access to the falls typically involves hiking from the Cloud Cap Trailhead or nearby trails. However, trail conditions may vary due to past damage from landslides and forest fires, so it is recommended to check with the U.S. Forest Service for the latest updates.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Cloud Cap Trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Ensure your vehicle has a valid Northwest Forest Pass if required.
Elevation
4925 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.411363° N, -121.656189° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring trekking poles for stability on uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before your trip, as the area can be slippery after rain. Carry plenty of water and snacks, and ensure you have a map or GPS device as cell service may be limited.
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With 4.0 miles and 800 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
Mount Hood Village
Mt Air Motel
Best Western Mt. Hood Inn
THE CLYDE - Your Cozy & Luxurious Mt Hood Retreat
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
SHERWOOD CAMPGROUND
4.3 miles away · 16 sites
Overview Sherwood campground is an easily accessible location for simple camping, with beautiful landscapes and the Hood River rushing next to it. Close to hiking and recreational locations, Sherwood campground is a prime location for those looking for a centrally located base camp near Mt. Hood, or for those looking for a surprisingly quiet, camping getaway.Recreation The location of Sherwood Campground makes for a great place to set up camp and explore the upper Hood River Valley. Hiking trails
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Cloud Cap Inn, Tamanawas Falls, and the Timberline Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and other larger animals, and store food securely.
Cities near Wallalute Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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