TAMANAWAS FALLS TRAIL
📍Mount Hood, Oregon (5 miles / 792 ft)
🐾 Dog-friendly – yes, your pup can enjoy epic waterfalls too!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’m a sucker for a good waterfall.
Why we picked it
Over the years, I’ve scrolled past hundreds of waterfall photos from the Pacific Northwest. Misty cascades framed by towering evergreens. Moody mornings where fog swirls through the forest. It’s a vibe. So when a friend told me that Tamanawas Falls was a favorite, it became a must-see while we were in Mt. Hood.
We pulled into the trailhead around 7:30 a.m., expecting a crowd. Instead, there were just two other cars — prime time for some waterfall magic. We had the forest to ourselves.
The Hike
The trail winds through old-growth forest, crossing a couple of wooden bridges. The gentle climb is steady, but never grueling. Before long, you can hear the low rumble of water in the distance.
There’s a short rock scramble before the final approach when the waterfall starts to peek into view around a turn. And then, suddenly, there it is: Tamanawas Falls.
The Falls
A 110-foot sheet of water tumbles over a dramatic basalt cliff, framed by dramatic basalt columns that immediately reminded me of Iceland’s Skógafoss. Even though there hadn’t been heavy rain recently, the falls were roaring, sending a cool mist into the air.
When we arrived, just one other hiker was snapping photos. Five minutes later, she left, and we stood there alone. It’s rare to have a spot like this to yourself, and we soaked it in.
Extending The Adventure
While the official out-and-back is 3.3 miles, we looped back via Elk Meadows Trail to the East Fork Trail and then returned to the trailhead — just about five miles total. Easy, scenic, and worth every step.
The entire hike felt relaxed yet rewarding, and it’s the kind of trail you could easily tack onto a weekend trip around Mount Hood.
Final Thoughts
If you’re chasing waterfalls in the PNW, this one’s a must. Between the moody forest, the breathtaking basalt cliff, and the sheer force of the water, Tamanawas Falls delivers big in a short, accessible hike.
Check out more trails in our Happy Trails section.