Overview

• Location: Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

• Waterfall Type: Cascade

• Height: ~404 feet

• Trail Distance: No maintained public trail

• Difficulty: Not officially accessible

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (viewable from limited vantage points only)

History & Background

Middle Oneonta Falls is the tallest of the three waterfalls on Oneonta Creek and one of the most dramatic cascades in the Columbia River Gorge. Historically, access to the falls involved hiking through Oneonta Gorge, a narrow slot canyon that became extremely popular. Due to fire damage, falling rock hazards, and safety concerns, public access to Oneonta Gorge has been closed, and Middle Oneonta Falls is no longer reachable by an official trail.

Geology

Middle Oneonta Falls flows over steep walls of Columbia River Basalt, shaped by volcanic activity and later sculpted by erosion and Ice Age floods. The waterfall descends in a long, slanted cascade rather than a single plunge, emphasizing the layered basalt formations typical of the Gorge. Its height and narrow canyon setting make it especially striking during periods of high flow.

Directions & Access

• Nearest City: Bridal Veil, OR

• Trail Information:

  • No maintained trail to the waterfall

  • Oneonta Gorge is closed to public entry

• Parking:

  • Limited roadside parking along the Historic Columbia River Highway

  • Parking restrictions may be in effect

• Accessibility:

  • Not accessible

  • Viewing limited to distant or partial perspectives

Best Time to Visit

• Spring: Highest flow and best visibility from safe viewpoints

• Summer: Flow diminishes; access restrictions remain in place

• Fall: Lower flow; foliage adds color but views are limited

• Winter: Snow, ice, and runoff make the area hazardous

Nearby Attractions

• Horsetail Falls

• Multnomah Falls

• Wahkeena Falls

• Historic Columbia River Highway

References

• Links:

  • Friends of the Columbia Gorge

  • Oregon Hikers – Oneonta Falls

  • Travel Oregon – Oneonta Gorge

• Books:

  • Oregon Waterfalls by Greg Plumb

  • Waterfall Lover’s Guide: Pacific Northwest