This "highway" twists and turns and takes its time as it weaves along the northern edge of the gorge. At times it even merges back with I-84 for a few miles. But, until someone has experienced the Columbia River Gorge from U.S. 30, full of its incredible views and numerous spectacular waterfalls, they simply haven't completely enjoyed the true beauty of the incredible natural wonder that is the Columbia River Gorge.

One of the first waterfalls visitors encounter, while driving eastbound, is Latourell Falls. Easily visible from the roadside, Latourell plunges from a height of nearly 250 feet from Pepper Mountain. Since the water flow is fairly light in comparison to other nearby waterfalls, Latourell is best viewed from mid-winter to early summer. While easily visible from the parking lot, there's also a short, wheelchair accessible trail that takes visitors up to a better viewpoint of the full waterfall. It's slightly uphill, but quite easy to manage, and the view is more than worth the slight effort of the climb.

Slightly further east, visitors come to Sheppard's Dell. Also viewable from the roadside (though parking is sparse), the gorgeous Sheppard's Dell falls in three distinct sections totaling 150 feet in height. Watching as the water twists and turns into each portion of the waterfall, visitors can understand why this is a favorite stop along the Gorge Scenic Highway. There's even a small walking trail that takes visitors down to the base of the falls for those who would like to get a better look at this incredible waterfall.

The next gorgeous waterfall takes a bit more work on the part of visitors. While Bridal Veil Falls is more than worth the effort of hiking into the woods, a hike approximately 3/4 mile round trip is necessary to reach these spectacular falls. Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes and to watch their step as they climb down the trail to reach the falls as there can be several slick spots along the way. However, once they reach the falls, everything will be worth it. At 140 feet in height and nearly 40 feet across, they're simply an amazing sight to see, and a must for anyone who enjoys the beauty of natural, pristine waterfalls.

Once visitors have had the opportunity to enjoy Multnomah Falls in all its incredible glory, the next likely stop would be at Wahkeena Falls, less than a mile away along U.S. 30. Plunging over 240 feet in a tiered fashion, Wahkeena Falls can be enjoyed from the parking lot, or, for the more adventuresome visitors, by taking the hiking trail back into the woods. In fact, there are two more smaller falls behind Wahkeena, accessible by the trail only, for those who are in the mood for a good hike. No matter what, be sure to walk down to the small bridge at the west edge of the parking lot to take in the full view of this incredible waterfall, from the top edge all the way down to the creek below as it flows out to meet the Columbia River.

In a much similar fashion as Proxy Falls, east of Springfield, Oregon, Horsetail Falls plunge into a small pond at the base of the falls, offering visitors, on a hot day, a nice cool spray of water, and photographers (both professional and amateur) a chance to use their skills in dodging spray while trying to capture the incredible beauty of this waterfall - just one of many truly spectacular waterfalls along the Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway. Visitors - take your time and see the Gorge from Highway 30. There's simply so much to enjoy!

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