Hidden inside a narrow basalt gorge within the Columbia River Gorge is Oneonta Falls. This is one of the many waterfalls cascading off the cliffs along the Oregon side of the gorge. The hike itself is unique.

To access the falls, one must hike about a half-mile in a creek bed through the narrow canyon. The water is quite shallow, but it can get up to a six-foot person’s chest at one point. The bed is mostly made up of smooth river rocks, which makes it easier to trek.

Hikers will find a few obstructions like logs. Many of the logs are easy to climb over or under. The most prominent obstruction is the massive log jam at the north end of the gorge. Use caution on the log jam and traverse at your own risk , as slipping or log shifting may result in injuries.

The best time to access Oneonta Falls is during late summer when the temperature is warm and the creek runs low. During spring runoff and heavy rain, the creek pools behind the log jam. There are no easy trails along the gorge walls.

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