If there’s an epic waterfall hike, you can assume it’s on my bucket list (I’m slightly obsessed). The Columbia River Gorge happens to be home to over 90 falls.
During this magical weekend getaway, I was able to check off a hike that’s been on my bucket list for years (Tunnel Falls), relax in the coziest Airbnb, and stop at 8+ other waterfalls along the gorge! Here’s how to make the most of one unforgettable weekend in the Columbia River Gorge! It’s the perfect 3-day itinerary while exploring the Gorge!
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Table of Contents
3-day Columbia River Gorge Itinerary (Quick Overview)
I’ll, of course, give you all the details (probably more than you are looking for) below, but here’s a quick overview of how you’ll be spending your time with this itinerary! It’s jam-packed as always!
- Day 1: Hike Tunnel Falls
- Day 2: Mount Hood Area (Little Zig Zag Falls, Trillium Lake, Timberline Lodge)
- Day 3: Columbia River Gorge Day Trip (7 Falls in one day!)
Best Time to Visit the Columbia River Gorge
The best time to visit the Columbia River Gorge is late spring through early fall, typically from May to October. During these months, the weather is warmer, the trails are more accessible, and the waterfalls are flowing beautifully from spring snowmelt.
You’ll find all the wildflowers in the spring, while fall brings stunning colors to the forests. Summer offers the sunniest days, perfect for hiking and sightseeing, though it’s also the busiest/most expensive season. If you want to avoid crowds but still enjoy good weather, late May or September are ideal times to plan your trip.
As usual, I ignored the “best time” advice and visited in late April. We were met with sunny days (one day of a bit of rain), only a few crowded parking lots, and the start of the wildflower bloom.
Where To Stay near the Columbia River Gorge
When visiting the Columbia River Gorge, there are several great places to stay depending on the experience you’re after.
Hood River is a favorite, with its lively downtown, craft breweries, and easy access to trails and waterfalls. Cascade Locks offers a quieter, convenient location right near the Bridge of the Gods. On the Washington side, towns like Stevenson and White Salmon are perfect for a more laid-back, scenic stay.
We chose to stay in the coziest cabin in Rhododendron (Midnight Hollow). It’s super close to Mount Hood, but still within easy reach of the Gorge (about 1 hour away). Our cabin had an infrared sauna, hot tub, river access, and the cutest decor throughout.
3-Day Columbia River Gorge Itinerary
Let’s dive into all the details. It’s such a dreamy weekend in the Columbia River Gorge!
Day 1: Tunnel Falls
Stop 1: Tunnel Falls Via Eagle Creek Trail
Drum roll please…. your weekend starts with the reason for our entire trip. Hiking to Tunnel Falls lived up to my expectations in every way.
The trail starts at Eagle Creek trailhead, where you will find a small to medium-sized parking lot. We arrived around 8:30 am on a Thursday, and there were only 2 other cars there, but it’s known to get busy (and fill up), so I would recommend an early start. There is a restroom available before taking off on your trek.
The trail is over 13 miles long (we clocked in at 13.4) and climbs over 2,000 ft. Those stats seem daunting, but I found it to be a pretty gradual incline. I was getting pretty tired for the last two miles, though (but at no point was I gasping for air like I’m known to do on other hikes).
Throughout the trail, you’ll pass by countless waterfalls before arriving at the famous Tunnel Falls (around 6.1 miles in). After hanging out at this magical waterfall for a while, you can choose to continue along the trail for another .5 miles to get to Twister Falls and another unnamed waterfall about .1 further.
This is an all-day festivity (it took us around 7 hours with all the stops), so after hiking, you can grab a quick dinner near your Airbnb or hotel.
If you want more info about this trail, check out my full guide here!
Day 2: Mount Hood
Stop 1: Little Zig Zag Falls
After a quiet morning at our Airbnb (I guess I’m getting old because my body was def feeling yesterday’s hike), we headed out to explore the Mount Hood region. We started with a short hike to Little Zig Zag Falls.
It’s a super-easy half-mile trail that leads to its namesake, Little Zig Zag Falls. I recommend packing a picnic lunch to enjoy next to the falls!
Stop 2: Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake is known as one of Mount Hood’s best viewpoints. During the summer months, you can drive right up to the lake for some pictures, a picnic, a kayak, hike the lake trail, or just to relax.
However, during the winter, the road is closed, but you can still hike into the lake along the closed road (around 4 miles round trip).
Stop 3: Timberline Lodge
We ended the night with a visit to the historic Timberline Lodge. You can stay and ski/snowboard here, but we just stopped for a quick self-guided tour, dinner, and a drink! You know I’m a sucker for some epic dinner views.
Day 3: Columbia River Gorge
Andddd, rise and shine for a full-day road trip along the Columbia River Gorge. There are SO many possible stops, but since this is a quick trip, here are the stops I’d pick for one day along the gorge.
One Day Columbia River Gorge Road Trip (Quick Itinerary)
- Stop 1: Lautorell Falls (can see from the parking lot, but I recommend the 2-mile loop!
- Stop 2: Shepherds Dells Falls (roadside)
- Stop 3: Bridal Veil Falls (~.8 mile hike)
- Stop 4: Multnomah Falls
- Stop 5: Horsetail & Ponytail Falls (Horsetail Falls is accessible from the parking lot while Ponytail Falls is about .5 miles away).
- Stop 6: Wachella Falls (2.4 miles)
For all the deets, check out the full One Day Columbia River Gorge post here!
Other Things to do in the Columbia River Gorge (and nearby)
If you have more time in this magical area, here are some other ideas to add to your itinerary!
- Visit the Vista House at Crown Point: Stop at this beautiful observatory perched on a cliff for panoramic views of the Columbia River and the surrounding Gorge.
- Go Wine Tasting in the Hood River Valley: The Gorge is home to many incredible wineries offering tastings with a view, especially around Hood River and the nearby “Fruit Loop” area.
- Windsurf or Kiteboard at the Hood River Waterfront: Known as the windsurfing capital of the world, the Hood River Waterfront Park offers lessons and rentals for beginners and pros alike.
- Ride the Mount Hood Railroad: Hop aboard this historic train for a scenic ride through orchards, forests, and mountain views — great for families or a relaxing day trip.
- Hike to Beacon Rock: On the Washington side, climb up this giant monolith via a series of switchbacks for sweeping views of the Gorge.
- Relax at Carson Hot Springs: Soak in the mineral-rich waters of this historic spa tucked away in the Washington side of the Gorge — a perfect way to unwind after hiking.
- Go Fruit Picking on the Hood River Fruit Loop: Depending on the season, you can pick your own cherries, apples, pears, or berries at one of the many charming farm stands along this famous loop.
One Weekend Columbia River Gorge Map & Recap
There ya have it! Exactly how to spend 3 days checking out the most beautiful waterfalls near the Columbia River Gorge. Here’s a map to help you visualize the plan (You can save it and bring it with!).
If you end up going, I’d love to hear about your favorite parts! Come hang out with me over on Instagram!
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