Tunnel Falls Hike: Discover Oregon's Spectacular Waterfall

Description

The Tunnel Falls via Eagle Creek trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience in the heart of Oregon's Columbia Gorge. This 13.6-mile round-trip trek is marked by its challenging terrain, featuring extreme cliffs and a narrow, cliff-hugging path that leads to the stunning 172-foot Tunnel Falls. The trail passes through a recovering burn area, adding a unique aspect to the hike as nature rejuvenates itself. Highlights include the cliffside walk with chains for support, numerous small waterfalls along the way, and the breathtaking Tunnel Falls itself, where hikers can walk behind the cascading water through a natural rock tunnel.

Itinerary

Start at the Eagle Creek Trailhead: Located off Interstate 84, park and prepare for the hike.
Navigate the Trail: Follow the marked trail, enjoying smaller waterfalls and lush greenery. Use chains for support on narrow cliff sections.
Arrive at Tunnel Falls: Experience the awe of Tunnel Falls, where you can walk behind the waterfall.
Optional Extension to Twister Falls: For those wishing to extend their hike, continue to Twister Falls before turning back.
Return: Retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

4.8 ● Google reviews

Jenna Granados

3 months ago

The hike leading to Tunnel Falls is so beautiful with different terrains and gorgeous views throughout. Well worth it to visit. Hike a tiny bit past Tunnel Falls to see Twister Falls!!
Collin Semb

2 years ago

This waterfall is incredible and worth the time to get there! The hike itself is actually pretty easy, it's just long but no real sections of severe incline or anything. Not a kid or pet-friendly trail due to the rocky nature of the trail and some very steep drop-offs. Overall this is a great way to spend a day!
Rachel J

2 years ago

Beautiful hike that took you along steep cliffs sides and past many gorgeous falls. The incline was steady the whole 6 miles, however, it was a more challenging trail just due to the nature of the trail. It is a very eneven, rocky, loose rock trail so just be aware that you can't lazy walk this trail or you will trip and fall. By lazy walk, I mean, the walk back that is almost all down hill, you'll still have to pick up your legs so you don't trip! We hiked down to the punch bowl falls and then hiked the extra 300 ft or so at the end to twister falls giving us a total of 13 miles. This park requires a NW Forest parking pass. Also, don't forget the sunscreen because there are plenty of shady spots but a lot of sun exposure as well.
Jessica Arino

2 years ago

Long hike back to the tunnel falls but worth every step! We saw so many other falls along the way. There isn’t much tree cover due to the fires so I would recommend going early or bringing sun gear. It was about 11 miles total for us to get to the falls. There is a fall called “twister falls” that is just past the tunnel and is totally worth the extra few minutes of hiking
Chris Maynard

7 years ago

This was and is my favorite hike in the Northwest Oregon region. I have not been out since the fires in the area so I am not sure how the trail held up or where they’re at with restoring it. I hope to return soon and hike this great trail again. The trail to Tunnel Falls itself is just over 6 miles out. So plan on over 12 miles round trip if you’d like to see the falls. The trail does continue on further however if you’d like to make the journey longer. There are some slight inclines but nothing over the top or that makes you feel like you’re scaling a mountain. After the first mile or so the crowd tends to thin out and if you decide to go further than Tunnel Falls there is hardly anyone. Parking can be difficult on busy days but usually you can find a spot not to far away from the start of the trail. Tons of waterfalls you’ll walk by including punch bowl falls. Take plenty of snacks and hydration along with you as this is an all day hike for most if you’re planning on making it out to the falls and back.

FAQs