Punch Bowl Falls via Eagle Creek Trail #440(edit)

Overview

The Eagle Creek trail closed on 1/25/21 due to landslides after opening for less than one month post the 2017 Eagle Creek fire. Check the Mt. Hood National Forest website for current status.

Eagle Creek is a stunning, premier hike in the Columbia River Gorge. While impacted by the 2018 Eagle Creek fire, the trail has not lost its previous beauty and is still remarkably lush up to Punchbowl Falls. Rated moderate as not too steep, the trail is cut into the narrow, steep canyon carved by Eagle Creek. There are sharp drop-offs to the Eagle Creek channel below and the trail can be wet and slippery due to water falling from the cliffs above. Creek crossings are required if hiking past Punchbowl Falls. Eagle Creek is an alternate route for the Pacific Crest Trail.

Arrive early and on a weekday to get a parking spot and avoid crowds. Not suitable for young children or dogs.

This trail goes by Metlako Falls and then a side trail down to the creek near Lower Punch Bowl Falls. Continue on to Punch Bowl Falls.

If continuing past Punch Bowl Falls, the trail also goes by Skoonichuk Falls, Tenas Camp, Four Mile Falls, Tenas Falls, Wy'East Camp, Wy'east Falls, Blue Grouse Campsite, Grand Union Falls, Tunnel Falls, Twister Falls, and 7½ Mile Camp.

Getting Started

From Portland, take I-84 east to exit 41. From Hood River, take I-84 west to exit 40, backtrack on I-84 east to exit 41.
Parking is available just past the fish hatchery or continue up the road along Eagle Creek to additional parking. There are bathrooms.

Taking Children

Not suitable for young children. The trail is busy, narrow and sometimes slippery with steep drop-offs to Eagle Creek.