Wahkeena Springs, Columbia River Gorge, Portland, Oregon

## Overview Wahkeena Springs is a natural spring nestled in the lush forests of the Columbia River Gorge near Corbett, Oregon. Situated along the iconic trail system that connects some of the Gorge's most spectacular waterfalls, this spring flows directly out of the ground with no spout or pipe — a true natural emergence. The spring feeds Wahkeena Creek, which cascades downstream to form the stunning Wahkeena Falls, a 242-foot tiered waterfall visible from the Historic Columbia River Highway. The name "Wahkeena" is derived from a Yakama word meaning "most beautiful," a fitting description for both the spring and the surrounding landscape. The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, where the spring is located, is home to more concentrated waterfalls than nearly anywhere else in North America, and Wahkeena Springs sits at the headwaters of one of the most beloved. The area has long been cherished by hikers, naturalists, and water enthusiasts alike. The spring is publicly accessible year-round and reached via a rewarding approximately three-mile hike through old-growth forest and mossy basalt formations. While the water has historically been used by hikers as a drinking water source, visitors should be aware that no water quality testing data is publicly available for this spring, and conditions can change seasonally. ## Directions 1. From Portland, head east on Interstate 84 toward the Columbia River Gorge. 2. Take the exit for the Historic Columbia River Highway (US-30) near Corbett. 3. Follow the Historic Columbia River Highway east until you reach the Multnomah Falls Lodge area. Parking is available here (note: a parking reservation or Columbia River Gorge timed-use permit may be required during peak season). 4. From Multnomah Falls Lodge, pick up the trail system heading west toward Wahkeena Falls. The lodge can provide a printed trail map showing all connecting hiking routes. 5. Follow the Wahkeena Trail (#420) uphill along Wahkeena Creek. The spring source is located approximately three miles from the trailhead, upstream past Wahkeena Falls and through the forested canyon. 6. The trail is well-maintained but involves steady elevation gain. Sturdy footwear is recommended. **Nearest Address:** 48663 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Corbett, OR 97019 ## What to Expect The hike to Wahkeena Springs is a moderately challenging but incredibly scenic trek through one of Oregon's most beautiful landscapes. The trail follows Wahkeena Creek uphill through dense forest canopy, crossing footbridges and passing several smaller cascades along the way. The spring itself emerges naturally from the ground — there is no constructed spout or fountain — giving it a pristine, untouched feel. The surrounding forest is rich with native plant life. Depending on the season (typically mid-summer through early fall), hikers have reported finding wild salmonberries, blackberries, and thimbleberries growing along the trail between the spring and the falls — a delightful bonus on the return trip. The spring is accessible at all hours, though hiking in daylight is strongly recommended given the trail's elevation changes and forested terrain. Bringing a backpack with empty water bottles is a good idea if you plan to collect water from the source. The area can be busy during summer weekends, so arriving early offers a quieter experience. The trail connects to the larger Wahkeena–Multnomah Falls loop, one of the most popular hiking circuits in the Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors combine a visit to the spring with the full loop for a half-day adventure featuring multiple waterfalls, panoramic Gorge views, and old-growth forest.