Dry Creek Falls Oregon
Dry Creek Falls Columbia River Gorge Oregon
Dry Creek Falls,
Oregon is a considerably taller waterfall than appears at first glance. Upon
arriving at the base of the falls, the spirited 74-foot plunge of the creek
spilling out of an extremely narrow canyon appears to be the extent of the
falls.
However, tucked hidden in the canyon above the visible part of the falls
actually lies another five (possibly more) drops which bring the cumulative
height of the falls to around 230 feet. Unfortunately, the only way of reaching
them is by rappelling into the canyon from above and climbing down the gorge
with aid of ropes and wet-suits.
The city of
Cascade Locks uses Dry Creek as its municipal water source. There is a small
concrete dam that diverts a portion of the creek into a tunnel just below the
falls.
The basalt amphitheater
around the falls provides a great backdrop, and the basin does get remarkably
green in the spring. Flowers are often seen growing around the base of the
falls as well, and the falls should remain almost universally shaded outside
the longest days of the year. It is one of the Scenic Waterfalls in Columbia
River Gorge.
Dry Creek Falls is
accessed from the Pacific Crest Trail at Cascade Locks. Park at the Pacific
Crest Trail trail-head next to the Bridge of the Gods and follow the trail under
Interstate 84. Under the highway the trail intersects a road, walk up the road
about 300 feet to the continuation of the trail on the left. About 2 miles from
the trail head the trail crosses Dry Creek. Just before crossing the creek,
follow a gravel road uphill for another 1/4 mile to the falls.
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