Shepperd’s Dell Falls in May 2010

Of all the roadside waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, Shepperd’s Dell Falls is the easiest to miss. That may be partly because it doesn’t seem to be as admired as the other waterfalls in the area. It’s not that it’s not beautiful, it’s just not very photogenic. (Update: I did find it to be more photogenic during my second visit in May 2010…just seemed to be better views to be had.)

The waterfall is hidden off of the road, and you have to pay attention. Otherwise, you might miss the sign and “parking area” for the falls. The parking area isn’t really a parking area, but more a pullout from the road. Once you park and get out to view the falls, you’ll be able to get rather close to the falls. You can get a few feet from the falls. The issue with that is that it does not provide the whole view of the falls, which is rather spectacular. The photo to the right includes most of the falls, though I think there’s still more below. You’ll have to search for the most complete view of the falls, which may be randomly along the short trail to the crest. I still want to encourage people in the Columbia River Gorge to view Shepperd’s Dell Falls, as it is much prettier I expected.

Directions:

1. From I-84, get onto the Historic Columbia River Highway.
2. If you are driving east on the highway, the parking area will be on the right, though there may be parking on the other side. The waterfall is found between Latourell Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 220′
Length of Hike: Roadside

Where in the World is Shepperd’s Dell Falls?