Triple Falls Hike via Horsetail Falls (6 Waterfalls)
Details
Cold springs bubble up from the mighty hills of the Columbia River Gorge. Springs become streams; streams launch themselves from hillsides in bursts of millions of diamond-like droplets to become waterfalls.
Follow a trail that serpentines its way behind Ponytail Falls and out to a cliffside viewpoint overlooking a meadow dotted with ponds. Look out over the sparkling Columbia River towards Beacon Rock and Archer Mountain in the distance.
Stride down the path and enter a forest heavily scorched by the Eagle Creek Fire-Breathing Dragon of 2017. Anticipation increases with every step at the sight of Lower Oneonta Falls spilling out into the famous Oneonta Gorge. In the distance, Upper Oneonta Falls can be seen through the trees. Cross the bridge over Oneonta Creek and admire the lovely Middle Oneonta Falls just a stone's throw away.
Twists and turns occur at greater frequency as you ascend a steep slope and make your way over a couple fallen trees.
After a long journey, step out onto a rocky cliff and gaze upon a shimmering Triple Falls below. Take a deep breath of crisp autumn air and share a smile with your traveling companions.
So, come out and experience a waterfall-filled forest of tranquility with a few cool people!
Note: the photo above was taken prior to the fire. It's a little more brown now.
**DETAILS**
Difficulty: Moderate (plus a couple steep sections)
Miles: 6 1/2
Pace: 2.5 mph - This is almost a quick pace.
Elevation Gain: 700 ft
Hike Type: Out-and-Back
Dogs: Yes, if on a leash.
**WHAT TO BRING**
Water & Snacks
Cash (for gas if carpooling)
**WHERE TO MEET**
Those of us who wish to carpool will meet at the Gateway Transit Center parking garage at 8:15am (at the NW corner on the ground floor of the parking garage) and carpool from there. Passengers, please pay your driver $5 for gas costs. You can also meet us at the trailhead at 8:50am. If you're driving to the trailhead, just take exit 35 from I-84. After the exit, turn right and keep heading west until you reach the parking lot at Horsetail Falls. If the main parking lot happens to be full, there are several other parking spaces less than a quarter mile past the main parking lot. No parking passes are required. Google Maps link and directions to the trailhead here: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Horsetail_Falls_Trailhead
**DISCLAIMER**
By attending this meetup, you agree that you are responsible for your own health and safety and that the organizer will not be held liable for any injury or health issue you may sustain while in attendance. You attend this meetup at your own risk. Not that any injuries are expected, but be cautious :)
Photo of Triple Falls by Angel Schatz https://flickr.com/photos/glamourschatz/6128998448
Licensed under CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0