This Oregon Hike Hasn't Been The Same Since The Fires

If you’ve seen photos of hikers wading through a moss-covered slot canyon to reach a surreal waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge, you’ve probably heard of Oneonta Gorge.

But here’s the deal: that iconic lower gorge section is still closed—and has been since the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire.

That doesn’t mean you should skip the Oneonta area, though. The Oneonta Trail is still open and absolutely worth hiking.

You’ll climb through a recovering forest, cross bridges over rushing creeks, and end at the stunning Triple Falls—a uniquely photogenic waterfall that more than holds its own.

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Table of Contents

Oneonta Trail Snapshot
The Oneonta Gorge Closure: What You Can’t Do Right Now
What You Can Do: Hike to Triple Falls
- Reaching Triple Falls
Trail Notes & Pro Tips
Final Thoughts: Still Worth the Hike—If You Know What to Expect
More Along The Columbia River Gorge
MORE ON THE WEST COAST:

Oneonta Trail Snapshot

Distance: ~3-5.5 miles out and back (you can turn around at Triple Falls for a shorter hike)
Elevation Gain: ~1,675 feet
Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep, rocky, and narrow sections)
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
Parking: Very small lot (~10 spaces); Horsetail Falls lot is a safer option
Bathrooms: None at the trailhead

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The Oneonta Gorge Closure: What You Can’t Do Right Now

Let’s clear up the biggest confusion first: Lower Oneonta Gorge, the slot canyon hike with waist-deep water and a log jam scramble, is currently closed to the public.

The old wooden walkway that gave you a peek at Lower Oneonta Falls is also gone. There’s no safe or legal access into the canyon from the trailhead.

The lower falls at Oneotaga Gorge in Portland — You can no longer get to this waterfall!

Even Upper Oneonta Falls, marked on some maps, isn’t really visible from the trail.

Your best glimpse is from the metal bridge between the Ponytail Falls area and the upper Oneonta trail—where you might catch a look at Middle Oneonta Falls, though it’s partially obstructed.

Bottom line: if you’re coming here specifically for that famous gorge photo, it’s not happening right now. But…

What You Can Do: Hike to Triple Falls

The Oneonta Trail begins as a climb through a forest still recovering from the fire. It’s striking to see how life is returning—grasses, ferns, and shrubs are filling in the slopes between blackened tree trunks.

There are some exposed sections, especially early on, so expect sun and wind.

Nina, a woman, hiking on a trail with burned trees.

The trail steadily climbs most of the way, with a few short breaks. Parts of it are rocky, narrow, and steep, with some serious drop-offs that require caution.

You’ll cross a few bridges, navigate one section that involves straddling a large fallen tree, and traverse stretches with loose rock and uneven footing. It’s not technical, but it’s more challenging than it looks on paper.

Reaching Triple Falls

After about 2.5 miles, you’ll reach Triple Falls—a showstopper where three streams drop side-by-side into a lush, mossy canyon.

There’s a small wooden bridge just upstream of the falls, making it easy to get a great photo and take a well-earned break.

Some hikers continue past this point, but conditions and closures can change beyond Triple Falls—always check signage and use good judgment.

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Trail Notes & Pro Tips

Parking is a pain. The Oneonta lot only fits ~10 cars, and it’s tucked away with limited visibility—some hikers have reported break-ins. For a safer, more obvious option, start at Horsetail Falls and connect to the Oneonta Trail via the short path between them.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes. This trail involves rocks, roots, narrow edges, and fallen logs. It’s not a flip-flop or sandal situation.
Don’t underestimate the incline. It’s not a huge elevation number, but the consistent uphill and rugged terrain add up.
Trail etiquette matters. The trail narrows significantly in places—let uphill hikers pass, and keep dogs close.
Respect the closure. Some people try to go on the closed part of the trail. Please don’t! It’s dangerous!
Bring water and sun protection. There’s limited shade in the early part of the hike, especially midday.

Final Thoughts: Still Worth the Hike—If You Know What to Expect

The Oneonta Trail may no longer include its most Instagram-famous feature, but it’s still a beautiful and rewarding hike.

The forest is regenerating, the river views are constant, and Triple Falls is one of the most unique and dramatic waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge.

As long as you’re not expecting a canyon scramble or waterfall swim, you’ll find a scenic, slightly challenging hike that delivers all the things that make the Gorge special—waterfalls, cliffs, creeks, and quiet forest beauty.