Photo by Adam Sawyer
When it’s cold outside, it can be difficult to get the family out of the house. Motivation to get into the great outdoors drops at a rate that’s commensurate with the thermometer’s mercury. If you’ve got the money and the gear, skiing and snowboarding are, of course, great options. But if you don’t have the extra cash or prefer something a bit more “natural,” a good carrot to dangle is the prospect of frozen waterfalls. I’m not claiming that frozen waterfalls are going to send the family racing out the front door, but you might be surprised. At the very least, it may reduce the amount of whining about leaving a warm house, especially when coupled with the promise of hot cocoa.
Since waterfalls are abundant in this part of the country, it’s easy to customize your adventure to the aptitude (or willingness) of your family. Easy falls to track down include Cedar Mill Falls and Pothole Falls.
For a longer outing, and one with numerous hiking options, a trip into the Columbia River Gorge is absolutely magical when things are icy. The world-renowned Waterfall Alley runs along the Historic Columbia River Highway and features the heavy hitters Multnomah, Latourell, and Wahkeena Falls, among others. There are also several remarkably beautiful and hikeable falls that are further removed from the more popular roadside stops. Among these are Fairy, Elowah, and Wahclella Falls, which provide jaw-dropping beauty as well as exercise.
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and claim some frozen beauty all to yourselves, visit portlandhikers.org or waterfallsnorthwest.com. Browse their databases, pick a spot, and go wild. One of my personal favorites, frozen or not, is Abiqua Falls. There is no official trail to these falls, only a steep boot path. It’s a little more advanced, so research this one before you attempt it, and make sure it’s within your family’s comfort level.
As always, but particularly during winter months, check road conditions before venturing out to any of these destinations. Also, proper clothing and gear are essential. Remember, when it’s cold outside, warm and dry equals safe and happy.
-Adam Sawyer
Photo by Adam Sawyer
Photo by Adam Sawyer
