Horsetail Falls and Ponytail Falls are two incredible waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge.
In fact, we consider them some of the best waterfalls in the entire gorge (in our humble opinion) and definitely worth a visit.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know before you visit! That way, you’ll be able to make the most of your time there.
Whether you’re planning to walk behind Ponytail Falls, swim at the base of Horsetail Falls, or simply admire their beauty, let’s discover these epic waterfalls!
Horsetail and Ponytail Falls Oregon Overview
These beautiful falls get their names from their similar appearance to the tail of a horse (although we can’t really see the resemblance ourselves).
Nonetheless, both of these Columbia River Gorge waterfalls are impressive to see in person and definitely worth a visit.
In fact, we consider these two of the best waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge because of their beauty and uniqueness.
Plus, they are right next to each other! You can see two falls without having to move your car. Also, the drive from Portland is just 40 minutes.
| Waterfall | Height | Accessibility | Crowds | Short Summary |
| Horsetail Falls | 176 ft | No hike required | Moderate | Beautiful falls. Great swimming hole. |
| Ponytail Falls | 75 ft | 1 mile round trip hike | Low | Walk behind falls. Pretty hike. |
Horsetail and Ponytail Falls Map
Use this interactive map to get your bearings. You can also expand it in a new window.
What’s so Great About Horsetail Falls?
Horsetail Falls Oregon (also called Horsetail Waterfall Oregon) is over 170 feet tall and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge.
This waterfall is super easy to access. In fact, the parking lot is just steps away from the base of the waterfall, meaning everyone can enjoy the views, with no hike required.
There is a large viewing area which means you don’t need to battle with other visitors to get a good view.
Also, the base of Horsetail Falls has an excellent swimming pond. This is our go-to swimming hole in the Columbia River Gorge on a hot summer day!
Overall, Horsetail Falls is one of our favorite waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge which is why we always stop here when we have time.
How to Get to Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls is just a 40 minute drive from downtown Portland, which makes for an easy day trip.
By the way, don’t forget to check out some of the other waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge during your trip.
There is no hike required to get to Horsetail Falls: the parking lot is right next to the base of the falls.
Directions to Horsetail Falls from Portland:
- Take Interstate 84 west through the gorge.
- Turn onto the Historic Columbia River Highway at exit 35.
- Head east for two minutes and you’ll see the parking lot on your right
The parking lot is on the opposite side of the road as the falls and holds about 30-40 cars. Unfortunately, the parking lot fills up fast on summer weekends.
As a result, we recommend getting there early or being prepared to wait for a parking spot.
What’s so Great About Ponytail Falls?
Ponytail Falls is just upstream of Horsetail Falls. In fact, it is pretty much right at the top of Horsetail.
However, you can’t see it from the bottom of Horsetail Falls. Rather, you must hike about a half a mile up several switchbacks to reach Ponytail Falls.
The hike starts at the Horsetail Falls trailhead and is fairly easy, but there is about 300 feet of elevation gain which will get your heart rate up.
Fortunately, the views along the way are beautiful. You can see out into the gorge and down to the base of Horsetail Falls below.
Of course, the real reward is Ponytail Falls, which presents itself as you round the final bend of the trail.
Ponytail Falls cascades 75 feet over the edge of an overhanging rocky grotto which suspends the water during its freefall.
What makes Ponytail Falls unique is that you can walk behind it! As far as we know, this is one of only two walk-behind waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge (the other being the iconic Tunnel Falls).
How to Get to Ponytail Falls
You can access the trailhead to Ponytail Falls from the Horsetail Falls parking lot. The trailhead is to your left as you look towards Horsetail.
As mentioned previously, the hike to Ponytail Falls is about 1 mile round trip and includes 300 feet of elevation gain.
Our Thoughts and Tips
Overall, we consider this area one of the best stops in the Columbia River Gorge.
We love that you can see both waterfalls without moving your car.
While you can visit year round (winter has the least amount of crowds) we recommend choosing a hot summer day and taking a dip in the pool at the bottom of Horsetail Falls.
In our opinion, the hike to Ponytail Falls is totally worth it. You are rewarded with great views and the unique experience of walking behind the waterfall.
Things to do Nearby
There are so many other fun things to see in the Columbia River Gorge!
We highly recommend taking a drive on the Historic Columbia River Highway to explore the other epic waterfalls along the way.
There are tons of easily accessible waterfalls including the iconic Multnomah Falls and the lesser known Latourell Falls.
In fact, you can see over 6 waterfalls in a single day, and more if you are determined!
For lunch, the best option is the Multnomah Falls Restaurant which is a perfect place to rest as the base of the second highest year-round waterfall in the United States!
Conclusion
We hope you found this article about Horsetail and Ponytail Falls helpful!
This is one of our favorite areas in the Columbia River Gorge and we are excited to be able to share our knowledge with you.
If you are interested in exploring more things to do nearby, check out our other articles about the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood.
As always, leave no trace when you visit to help preserve this special spot for future visitors. Happy adventuring!
