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3‑Day Waterfall & Beach Road Trip (Car)

Viewed by 134 travelers

Day 1: Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls

Morning: Start the day at Multnomah Falls, the iconic 620‑ft cascade just 30 minutes east of Portland. Enjoy a short hike to the historic bridge and take plenty of photos of the mist‑kissed cliffs.

Afternoon: Drive north to Latourell Falls, a striking 249‑ft waterfall that offers both a lower trail and a scenic viewpoint above the canyon. A quick hike provides stunning river vistas and a chance to explore the surrounding forest.

Evening: Return to Portland for dinner and relax at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where the river’s calm waters and city lights create a pleasant evening backdrop.

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Day 2: More Cascading Wonders & Coastline Arrival

Morning: Visit Bridal Veil Falls, a 120‑ft plunge that’s especially photogenic after a light rain. The short trail leads to a viewing platform perfect for quick stops.

Afternoon: Continue west to the coastal town of Cannon Beach, stopping at Ecola State Park for panoramic views of the Pacific and a brief hike to the iconic Haystack Rock.

Evening: Stroll along Cannon Beach at sunset, where the tide pools glisten and the famous sandstone arch frames the sky, offering a perfect end to the day.

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Day 3: Beach Exploration & Departure

Morning: Explore the serene sands of Seaside Beach, taking a leisurely walk on the boardwalk and watching the waves roll in.

Afternoon: Head to Oswald West State Park for a short hike to Short Sand Beach, a hidden gem known for its dramatic cliffs and surf‑friendly waters.

Evening: Conclude the trip with a relaxed dinner in downtown Seaside before driving back home, reflecting on the waterfalls and beaches you’ve discovered.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • Multnomah Falls – 2 hours – $5 parking
  • Latourell Falls – 1.5 hours – $4 parking
  • Bridal Veil Falls – 1 hour – $3 parking
  • Ecola State Park – 2 hours – $7 parking
  • Cannon Beach – 2 hours – free
  • Seaside Beach – 2 hours – free
  • Oswald West State Park – 2 hours – $5 parking
  • Tom McCall Waterfront Park – 1 hour – free
  • Total Estimated Cost: $24

Tips

If you have extra time, add a day to explore the waterfalls of the Mount Hood area, such as Tamolitch Falls, or extend your coastal adventure by visiting the historic town of Astoria. To shorten the trip, focus on a single region—either the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls or the Oregon Coast beaches—and skip the longer drives between them.

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