Day Trips from Portland
← All Portland day tripsDay Trips from Portland: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Portland, OR. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Portland
Pegleg Falls
Oregon, USA
Just 1 hr 42 min from Portland, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Edith Gorge Falls
Ashford, WA 98304
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Portland, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Silver Falls State Park
USA
Just 1 hr 11 min from Portland, rated 4.9 stars by 10,273 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
South Falls Day Use Area
OR 97381, USA
Just 1 hr 17 min from Portland, rated 4.9 stars by 541 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Moulton Falls Regional Park
Yacolt, WA 98675
Just 51 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 1,575 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hole-in-the-Wall Falls
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 53 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 167 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Fairy Falls
Corbett, OR 97019
Just 34 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 363 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Multnomah Falls Recreation Area
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 43 min from Portland, rated 4.7 stars by 1,627 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Deschutes Falls Park
Yelm, WA 98597
Just 2 hrs 18 min from Portland, rated 4.7 stars by 223 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mosier Creek Falls
Mosier, OR 97040
Just 1 hr 9 min from Portland, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Dougan Falls
Washougal, WA 98671
Just 54 min from Portland, rated 4.7 stars by 220 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Munson Creek Falls State Park
Rd, 6400-6200 Munson Creek Rd
Just 1 hr 36 min from Portland, rated 4.6 stars by 660 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Portland
What are the best waterfalls near Portland, OR?
The best waterfalls near Portland range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Portland?
Some waterfalls near Portland have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Portland?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Portland are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Portland?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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