Falls Creek Falls - Summer 2015 Outdoor Adventure with Kids No. 4

Our Adventure Number 4 this summer was a hike with the cousins along Falls Creek to Falls Creek Falls on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. We found out about this place through the cousins’ friend. It was an hour and a half drive from Portland, and oh so worth the commute.

To get there, we followed along I-84 East to Cascade Locks (Exit 44) and crossed the Bridge of the Gods to the Washington side. There is a dollar toll for cars to cross this bridge that has a stunning view of the Columbia River. Turn right onto Washington Highway 14 and then in about five miles turn left (North) at the Carson exit – which is the Wind River Road (Highway 30). Continue about 15 miles north on this Highway 14. You will see the Carson Fish Hatchery on your left. You will pass by Skamania Lodge and through Stevenson Washington, a quaint town.

At Mile Post 14, there will be a Y intersection where you will see Mineral Springs Road straight ahead. Veer right as you stay on Wind River Road, watching for Falls Creek trails and Road Number 3062, a gravel road where you will turn right (Note: Road 3062 is gated closed from December 1 to April 1.). Go for two miles to the parking lot for the trailhead. There is a restroom (non-flush) at the trailhead.

There is a sign there where I had all the cousins pose before we began the hike along Falls Creek to Falls Creek Falls, which was a nice 1.8 miles. The gradual uphill trail was lined with roots and graced with what looked like old growth trees and a mossy backdrop. Some websites said this is an easy hike, but I’d call it moderate due to the elevation gain and the tricky at times terrain. I’m still working through therapy from the accident so I was a ways back from the kids who bolted ahead. Part of my recovery in regaining full balance though is getting out and walking.

There is a fork in the trail, but it is clearly marked (Trail 152 A) to get to the falls. A neat footbridge and suspension bridge add excitement along the way. When you reach the falls, they are breathtaking. They flow down in three long steps. It’s like a double or triple waterfall. The kids climbed down this area to get closer to the bottom falls while I savored the view from above. Official length of the falls is 207 feet.

We took lots of photographs before enjoying our lunch with the breathtaking view of the falls. It is so fun to see the cousins outside savoring nature together. What an amazing Adventure today.

Driving Directions to trailhead

Take I-84 East to Cascade Locks Exit 44. Cross over Bridge of the Gods ($1 toll) and turn right onto WA Hwy 14. In about five miles turn left (North) at the Carson Exit which is Wind River Road (or Highway 30). Continue just under 15 miles north on this Hwy 14. Watch for the Carson Fish Hatchery (2nd one) on your left. After MilePost 14, you’ll come to a Y intersection with Mineral Springs Road straight ahead, but you veer right continuing on Wind River Rd for Less than a mile. Watch for sign for Falls Creek trails and Road Number 3062. Turn right on this gravel road driving two miles taking you directly to the graveled parking lot at the trailhead. Restroom located at the trailhead.