Overview

• Location: Columbia River Gorge, Oregon (Eagle Creek)

• Waterfall Type: Punchbowl

• Height: ~100 feet

• Trail Distance: ~4.0 miles round-trip to the main viewpoint

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best Time to Visit: Spring through early summer

History & Background

Punch Bowl Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge and a centerpiece of the Eagle Creek Trail. The waterfall is named for the large, circular pool at its base, carved by centuries of powerful water flow. Eagle Creek has long been a popular hiking destination, and Punch Bowl Falls became widely known for its dramatic setting and turquoise water. Portions of the area were impacted by the Eagle Creek Fire, but the trail has since reopened with ongoing restoration and management efforts.

Geology

Punch Bowl Falls is formed where Eagle Creek drops over a basalt ledge into a deep, rounded basin. The punchbowl shape results from swirling water and erosion at the base of the falls, gradually hollowing out the rock. The surrounding canyon walls are composed of Columbia River Basalt, shaped by volcanic activity and later carved by erosion and Ice Age flooding.

Directions & Access

• Nearest City: Cascade Locks, OR

• Trail Information:

  • Accessed via the Eagle Creek Trail #440

  • Narrow trail sections with exposure and railings

  • Official viewpoints remain on the trail; off-trail access is discouraged

• Parking:

  • Eagle Creek Trailhead parking area along Interstate 84

  • Parking fills quickly during peak seasons

• Accessibility:

  • Not wheelchair accessible

  • Cliff exposure and uneven terrain along the trail

Best Time to Visit

• Spring: Peak flow from snowmelt and rain; most dramatic conditions

• Summer: Reliable flow but heavy crowds; arrive early

• Fall: Reduced flow with fewer visitors and cooler temperatures

• Winter: Snow, ice, and trail closures may limit access

Nearby Attractions

• Metlako Falls

• Tunnel Falls

• High Bridge (Eagle Creek)

• Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway

References

• Links:

  • Friends of the Columbia Gorge

  • Oregon Hikers – Punch Bowl Falls

  • Travel Oregon – Punch Bowl Falls

• Books:

  • Oregon Waterfalls by Greg Plumb

  • Waterfall Lover’s Guide: Pacific Northwest