Hike to Tunnel Falls
Details
Distance
12 miles
Elevation Gain
1640 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Michael Matti
*Currently Closed Tunnel Falls is a unique tunnel behind a beautiful waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge. Pass several other waterfalls while you hike through lush forests a trail built into the cliffside.
*Currently Closed, find out more info here
This hike begins at the Eagle Creek Trailhead. This is the same trailhead that goes to popular Punchbowl Falls. The trail to reach Tunnel Falls is 12 miles roundtrip on an out and back trail. If you continue another 0.5 miles on the trail after Tunnel Falls you will reach Twister Falls. The hike takes you past several other waterfalls on the way to Tunnel Falls including: Punchbowl Falls, Metlako Falls, Loowit Falls, and Skoonichuck Falls. The hike also goes along a cliff and is literally built into the side of the cliff at some points. There is a railing to hold onto for peace of mind.
The most unique part about Tunnel Falls is the tunnel behind the falls. You can also do some exploring at the base of Tunnel Falls if you make your way down the steep embankment before you get to the tunnel.
Know for
Nearby
🌎
Local adventures
Find hikes, backpacking, photo spots, and more around Cascade Locks.
🏕
Nearby lodging
Search campgrounds, glamping, and hotels near Cascade Locks.
Reviews
Leave a Review
One of my absolute favorites
I don’t know if this was man made or not but if the tunnel behind the waterfall was luck than this must be a miracle. Such a fun hike. One of the best waterfall hikes around here.
5.0
Closed
Currently closed due to the eagle creek fire.
1.0
Waterfalls Galore
You see several waterfalls on this hike,
5.0
One of the best Gorge hikes
The hike takes you across a river canyon over a high bridge. Bring your camera! Many things to see along the trail. Make sure to buy a parking pass before you go because you will be forced to pay anyways if you do not (the fine for us was $5)
5.0
Awesome 12-mile trail run
This is one of my favorite trail runs in the Gorge. Path is nice and wide, even when it gets exposed on the cliff side. There are some rocky bits that will (or should) slow you down - be extra careful on these when it's damp or rainy. If the weather's nice, even mid-week, expect to see a lot of people on the path. Camping is possible past High Bridge and there are designated campsites closer to the waterfall, so you may run into backpackers as well. At mile 5 you'll enter the Hatfield Wilderness area where filling out a free permit is required to continue on to Tunnel Falls.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
