Hikes/United States/Oregon/Mount Hood National Forest

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation

177 m

Distance

5.5 km

Duration

1.5-2h

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Tamanawas Falls Trail

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The Tamanawas Falls Trail is a fantastic outdoor excursion in Mount Hood National Forest that will take you to a picturesque volcanic waterfall. While out on the trail, you will hike through a scenic gorge along the banks of Cold Spring Creek, before arriving at the serene site of Tamanawas Falls. Be sure to arrive early, as this is one of the most popular hiking routes within the boundary of Mount Hood National Forest.

Route Description for Tamanawas Falls Trail

Due largely to the easily-traversed nature of the trail and the beautifully scenic views, the Tamanawas Falls Trail is an extremely popular hiking route in Oregon. If you want to easily secure parking or experience any sort of solitude along the trail, be sure to arrive early. Additionally, be sure to wear proper hiking boots and pack plenty of water!

While it may be a popular route in Mount Hood National Forest, it is certainly for good reason. This hike is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure outdoors, as it provides some amazing Oregon scenery and isn’t overly long. If you enjoy visiting magical waterfalls, then the Tamanawas Falls Trail is the ideal hiking route for you to explore.

Setting out from the Tamanawas Falls Trailhead on OR-35, you will follow the path as it leads through the tree cover to the north and takes you across a bridge over the Hood River. From here, you will keep right at the fork and continue on to the north, following the trail as it traverses the woodland landscape with the river on your right.

After roughly half a mile, the trail will bend to the west and bring you to another junction in the path. Keep left here and make your way west, where you will quickly arrive at another bridge crossing. Make your way over the waters of Cold Spring Creek and follow along its bank as you continue west, enjoying scenic views of the creek and surrounding forest.

About 0.8mi from the bridge crossing, you will keep left at another junction and make your way through the gorge as the trail bends to the southwest. Carefully navigating some rocky terrain, you will arrive at the site of Tamanawas Falls after about 0.3 km.

Here, you can explore the landscape of the gorge, stop for a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of the 34 m cascade. When you have had your fill, simply head back along the same path in order to return to the starting point of the Tamanawas Falls Trail. If you are looking for another hike in the area, you can also explore the Tamanawas Falls via East Fork Trail.

Trail Highlights

Tamanawas Falls

Situated along the North Fork of Cold Spring Creek in a gorge, Tamanawas Falls is a picturesque waterfall that plunges 34 m into a pool below. The rock face that the waterfall flows over is of volcanic origin and creates a dramatic scene, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions within Mount Hood National Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a pass to access the Tamanawas Falls Trail?

Yes, a valid recreation pass is required to utilize the Tamanawas Falls Trailhead.

How do you pronounce Tamanawas Falls?

Of Native American origin, Tamanawas is pronounced “ta-MAH-na-was”.

Insider Hints for Tamanawas Falls Trail

Be sure to purchase a valid recreation pass in order to access the trailhead.
This is one of the most popular hiking routes in Mount Hood National Forest, so be sure to arrive early in order to secure parking.
If you plan on hiking with a canine companion, be sure to keep them on a leash at all times.
Wear microspikes if you plan on hiking this trail in the winter.

Getting to the Tamanawas Falls Trail Trailhead

The starting point for the Tamanawas Falls Trail can be found along OR-35, south of the community of Mount Hood.

Route Information

Backcountry Campground:
Sherwood Campground
When to do:
May-October
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back