Mist Falls

Be aware: this creek was overrun by the Eagle Creek wildfire in September 2017. Please use extreme caution when descending the creek. Between landslides, fallen trees, and loose rocks, this area may be unstable and dangerous for years go come. While Mist Falls towers at 520ft, it is frequently disregarded due to its proximity to Multnomah Falls and its smaller watershed. The falls features a unique orange-tinted basalt column band that makes the falls more distinct and scenic than the other (but still impressive) seasonal runoffs that plunge off the cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge. Mist Falls is best seen in its entirety from Benson State Park or driving by on I-84. While several waterfall websites list the drops as 220' and 300', we found the rappel lengths to be 290' and 315'.

Spring seems to be the best time to visit as the falls may diminish or dry up entirely during the summer. To get an idea of water flow levels, park at the exit, and hike a few minutes up to take a look. From the parking lot, take the Wahkeena Falls trail, then turn west to head over towards Angels Rest. Eventually, veer off and bushwhack down into the creek. Long pants, long sleeves, gloves, and garden loppers or snippers are recommended. Bushwhacking to the creek is tall, thick vegetation. Once in the creek, it's heavily overgrown and full of Devil's Club. Taking the depicted shortcut will drop you into the creek close to the first rappel. This shortcut route has not been confirmed, but may reduce creek walking through the Devil's Club nightmare.

You will not be able to see or hear the rappeler on either drop. Radios are very helpful for communication.