Latourell Falls is a waterfall located within Guy W. Talbot State Park along the Columbia River Gorge in Portland, Oregon. Latourell Falls is an exceptional example of columnar basalt formations—a single jewel in the treasure chest. This waterfall is a real gem because of its breathtaking beauty, sheer height, unusual geological formations, and historical significance. Latourell Creek, a tributary of the Columbia River, feeds Latourell Falls. It meanders across a picturesque environment before dropping from a stunning cliff.
The Historic Columbia River Highway runs close, and at few points the Lower Falls can be seen from the road. A parking lot and trail were built near the falls to let people get to the natural fall. To see the higher falls, visitors have to hike about a 3.4-kilometre round trail. The surrounding environment is also spectacular, with lush foliage, towering trees, and scenic hiking trails. The park also has a paved ramp, so those with limited mobility can enjoy the picturesque views. The falls can be especially beautiful in the winter because of the icicles that form around the drop due to the lower temperatures.
Latourell Falls is one of the most picturesque 224 feet of vertical plunge that overflows the edge of an undercut amphitheater made of tall columnar basalt pillars. Then with a path leading farther up the creek and along the cliffs to Upper Latourell Falls, a 120-foot waterfall that winds through a rift in the volcanic rock. The upper amphitheater features a striking splash of golden cobblestone lichen, which contrasts with the dark basalt walls. The hue is chartreuse. From above the trailhead, you can see these lower falls; however, the circular trip ascends Latourell Creek to witness the two-tiered Upper Latourell Falls, then descends to the state park picnic area beneath the highway.
Next, you can trek up to the base of Latourell Falls, beneath the highway bridge, where you can take in the plummet and the basalt columns below. The mist from the waterfall creates a wet atmosphere that is ideal for a variety of plants and wildlife to thrive, contributing to the area’s great biodiversity. With a wide range of bird species, insects, and small mammals found in the area, this natural setting is a refuge for wildlife aficionados and birdwatchers.
The Latourell Creek Bridge, located below the falls, contributes to the Historic Columbia River Highway’s National Register of Historic Places listing and National Historic Landmark status. Latourell Falls is an exclusive among the best-known Columbia Gorge waterfalls in the way that it drops straight down from an overhanging basalt cliff. Most of those falls (including the famed Multnomah Falls) tumble to some extent.
The spectacular falls crash immediately over a massive wall of columnar basalt, resulting in a breathtaking cascade that is both forceful and quiet. These hexagonal columns developed as molten lava cooled and contracted, resulting in a stunning pattern of vertical columns. The contrast between the smooth, dark basalt and the pouring water makes a wonderfully breathtaking scene.
The falls bear Joseph Latourell’s name. The Joseph Latourell arrived in the area in the 19th century and was appointed postmaster of the Rooster Rock Post Office in 1887. The Latourell family once owned a house close to the present-day state park picnic area. It is currently abandoned but still stands. Guy Webster Talbot and his family owned the land until 1929, when they gave 125 acres to the state. The small settlement of Latourell borders the park’s north side.
The owners of the homes request that guests respect their privacy. Guy W. Talbot (1873–1961), the president of Pacific Power and Light Company, resided on the plot. In 1935, Multnomah County donated more land, and in 1952, it sold the state further land. Additionally, the Eva Larson Estate donated lands. Up until 1984, the remaining portion of the property was bought from several owners. The Civilian Conservation Corps worked on some of the park’s initial development from 1933 to 1935.
Latourell Falls is a remarkable waterfall of Oregon’s amazing ecological and geological variety, in addition to being a lovely natural feature. However, for those who are somewhat daring and waterfall enthusiasts, the Latourell Loop is an essential hike that serves as a traditional complement to the region’s other, more shimmering treasures. Or if you are just looking for an amazing natural wonder, Latourell Falls will not disappoint.
