The devastating Eagle Creek Fire of 2017 burned 50,000 acres in the Columbia River Gorge. Oregonians were heartbroken as we watched one of our most cherished places burn, and once the fire was contained we assessed our losses and tried to make sense of the tragedy.
Many of the gorge’s trail were closed due to heavy damage, and some still remain closed indefinitely, but with the hard work of members of the Pacific Crest Trail Association, Trailkeepers of Oregon, Friends of the Columbia River Gorge, and many other volunteers, as well as the U.S. Forest Service, several trails opened last summer.
Here’s one of the trails that was restored, and if you haven’t visited it yet, it should be on your bucket list.
The Dry Creek Falls trail is a a fairly easy trail that’s just 4.4 miles out and back. You’ll experience an 830-foot elevation change during the course of the hike, but overall, it’s suitable for just about every hiker.
Kathy Foster/Alltrails The trailhead is located just past the Bridge of the Gods. It’s part of the Pacific Crest Trail.
This pretty trail is a testament to the resilience of nature. As you hike through the forest, you’ll be witness to some of the damage that still lingers from the fire.
Keri Sprenger/Alltrails
Many of the trees are still blackened from the soot of the fire, but plants are thriving on the forest floor, returning the area to its former lush, green color a little bit at a time.
Kathy Foster/Alltrails
Dry Creek makes its appearance about halfway to the falls, and its waters gurgle and flow over rocks and logs, providing a sweet soundtrack for the rest of your hike.
Bill Warner/Alltrails
There’s no other way to describe Dry Creek Falls than awe-inspiring; it is undoubtedly one of the best Oregon waterfalls to add to your bucket list! You’ll be surrounded by tall basalt cliffs in a secluded little cove.
Molly Sadewaller/Alltrails
The falls plunge 78 feet from the cliffs right into the pool below.
Nicola Haines/Alltrails
You’ll want to spend some time admiring the falls before heading back. Make sure you bring your camera or phone to capture the beauty of this stunning waterfall.
Tammy Prutch/Alltrails When you hike this trail, please remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Take any trash you bring in back out with you, and respect this place so that others who visit can experience the same beauty.
Bring your pup along on this hike! Dogs are allowed here, as long as they’re kept on leash. He’ll love the trail as much as you will, just make sure to clean up after him.
Anne Palm/Alltrails
Learn more about the Columbia River Gorge on the Friends of Columbia River Gorge website.
Kathy Foster/Alltrails
The trailhead is located just past the Bridge of the Gods. It’s part of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Keri Sprenger/Alltrails
Bill Warner/Alltrails
Molly Sadewaller/Alltrails
Nicola Haines/Alltrails
Tammy Prutch/Alltrails
When you hike this trail, please remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Take any trash you bring in back out with you, and respect this place so that others who visit can experience the same beauty.
Anne Palm/Alltrails
Looking for another great hike in Oregon? Take this short, easy trail to a beautiful lighthouse on the coast.
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