Dry Creek Falls plunges 74 feet over a basalt wall in a secluded amphitheater near Cascade Locks. It is easily reached via the Pacific Crest Trail and is a popular destination for those interested in a short, woodsy hike with plenty of Gorge ambience. At the base of the falls are the remains of a water diversion works. In the 1930s, the rapidly expanding town of Cascade Locks got its water supply from this location during the construction of the Bonneville Dam. The creek was channeled into a tunnel and thus ran "dry" on its original bed. Almost the entire area of this hike was affected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. You'll see blackened tree trunks and a recovering understory, but most of the canopy is still intact. Get more details at: http://www.portlandhikersfieldguide.org/wiki/Dry_Creek_Falls_Hike

Activity Notes

Get out into the gorge on a weeknight with your 4-legged friend.  Meet at the trailhead promptly at 5pm, sunset is at 7:31pm.  Headlamp required, in case we are late returning to the cars.

Assuming we finish early enough, hungry hikers can eat and socialize at Thunder Island Brewing (they close at 8pm).

Carpool option from Gateway Transit Center, departing 4:10pm.

NW Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful) required to park here, there is a restroom at the trailhead.

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 78 miles
Driving Time from Portland 1 hours
Distance - Round Trip 4 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Relevant Maps CG6
Awards Qualified Waterfall Award