shepperd's dell state natural area

After doing the 2.4 miles loop at Latourell Falls, I was tired and wanted to do something low-key and this was perfect and only a 1.2-mile drive from Latourell. This waterfall gets so few visitors that it does not even have a parking lot. One can view the waterfall from the bridge or one can take a two minute hike to see the cascades closer up. It was beautiful and horsetail-shaped. Visit if you are already in the region. It is an easy short walk and so it's like a freebie added on to whatever other falls you want to see in the area.

At sheppards dell you can hike out to view "bridal Viel" falls, which is gorgeous and hourglass shaped, It is so serene and calm at the falls itself, which is a nice change from the other busier falls in the gorge. If you want to get a break from the hustle and bustle of the other falls, come here enjoy the serene hike, but it is a fair amount of up and down, including some stairs as well, so be ready, and bring some water with you.Very worth the trip, enjoy wildlife while enjoying the falls.

Shepperd's Dell is another scenic waterfall on the western end of the Columbia River Gorge, located in Shepperd's Dell State Natural Area. It's one of the lesser known falls in the gorge, but its very easy to access and worth a quick stop. The waterfall is named for George Shepperd, a farmer in the early 20th century who donated land to help preserve the natural beauty of the gorge. Much of the protected lands in the gorge were the result of such generous donations. The parking area is right along the side of the Historic Columbia River Highway and a short walkway across the street leads down to the falls. This waterfall is not nearly as high and mighty as many of the other falls and it can be difficult to view due to foliage. But, it has a rather unique hourglass shape and is definitely worth a stop. You can also get a good view of one of several historic bridges along the highway from here.

This scenic viewpoint could be easily missed if you are not paying close attention. It is just a short walk and the concrete structured walkway is original to the 1920s. Moss and ferns cover everything here and the little rushing waterfall is beautiful. We spent about a half hour here alone which was why my husband liked it so much. Bleeding heart flowers lined the forest wall above the walkway and were a sight to see. In Virginia, we pay $20 for a hanging basket of these. The bridge over the dell is a perfect setting for a keepsake picture.

This requires a very short walk down a gradual walkway with a beautiful moss covered stone wall along the way. There a several viewpoints as you descend and the waterfalls take on a different perspective the closer you get. Note the moss covered trees and walls. A very calm and peaceful setting compared to Multnomah Falls a half mile away. Watch the surface after it rains as moss makes for slick travel. Hint: when you see a stone wall with an open arch at the bottom, look through it to see if you can use the opening to "frame" a unique shot.

Don't forget to stop here!!! It's right off the historic hwy, If you are unable to walk down the short, steep hill you can stay on the road and take pictures of this wonderful waterfall. If you wander down the moss lined trail then you are able to get some great pictures of the waterfall and the bridge. Stop and take the time to look back up the hill and take some cool pictures of the stone railing.

Shepperd's Dell is a beautiful stop to break up your drive along the Colombia River Highway. It is well marked and right off the highway. There is a short and easy trail that dips down from the road - and leads to a beautiful waterfall.