A two-tiered, roughly 120-foot waterfall reached by a short trail that switchbacks down from the Historic Highway. Bridal Veil is gentler and less crowded than the headline stops — a satisfying stretch of the legs between the bigger falls.
Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint also has a separate, nearly flat interpretive loop along the clifftop with a camas wildflower meadow and Gorge overlooks — a lovely option if the stairs down to the falls aren’t for you.
The trail to the falls drops via switchbacks and a footbridge to a viewing platform at the base — about 0.6 miles round trip with a moderate climb back up. The overlook loop, by contrast, is short and largely level, ideal for families or a fast stop.
The tiny community of Bridal Veil nearby was once a booming lumber-mill town; today little remains but the name, a historic cemetery, and one of the most-requested postmarks in the country for wedding mail.
Pro tip: Do both short trails here: the descent to the falls and the level overlook loop. Together they’re under a mile and show off two completely different sides of the Gorge.
- • Trailhead is on the Historic Columbia River Highway — no I-84 permit required.
- • The falls trail has stairs and a climb back up; the overlook loop is much flatter.
- • A popular, small lot — arrive early on weekends.
- • Leashed dogs are welcome.
- How long is the hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Oregon?
- About 0.6 miles round trip, with switchbacks and a moderate climb back up to the trailhead on the Historic Columbia River Highway. Most visitors finish in 30–45 minutes.
- Is this the same as Bridal Veil Falls at Niagara?
- No — this is the Columbia River Gorge’s Bridal Veil Falls in Oregon, a two-tiered fall reached by a short trail. It shares only its name with the Bridal Veil at Niagara Falls.
