Latourell Falls – Historic Columbia River Highway

Latourell Falls is usually the first waterfall seen along the Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway. Because of this, it usually leaves quite an impression on first-time visitors. The falls plunge 224 feet over a massive wall of columnar basalt – some of the best formations in the Pacific Northwest – before cascading hastily toward the Columbia River. This waterfall is usually most recognized for the large patch of bright yellow lichen adorning the cliff face to the right of the falls, and this characteristic has led many famous photographers to give this location their treatment. The drainage of Latourell Creek is rather small, so the falls become significantly less impressive later in the year, but are always worth stopping for a quick look.

• ADA accessible
• Interpretive signage
• Visitor center nearby