Tamanawas Falls

Tamanawas Falls is a 100-foot cascade that fans across a broad, overhanging basalt cliff on the slopes of Mount Hood, spraying outward in a wide curtain that hikers can scramble behind on clear summer days. The falls emerge from Cold Spring Creek and tumble over a concave rock wall, creating a misty grotto rimmed with icicles in winter and wildflowers in summer. The amphitheater setting amplifies the sound into a constant, soothing white noise that fills the surrounding forest.

The 3.4-mile round-trip trail follows the East Fork of the Hood River before branching onto the Tamanawas Falls spur through a forest of old-growth Douglas fir, western red cedar, and mountain hemlock. The final approach crosses Cold Spring Creek on rocks and logs before reaching the boulder-strewn base of the falls. The 600-foot elevation gain is spread evenly, making this a comfortable moderate hike with excellent scenery throughout.

Visit in late spring for maximum water flow, or in winter when the surrounding basalt transforms into a palace of ice — though the trail can be icy and traction devices may be needed. Summer brings the warmest temperatures and the easiest creek crossing. The trailhead on Highway 35 is well-signed and popular on weekends.