Mist Falls Hike

Overview

Mist Falls plunges 520 feet in two scenic drops. It is sometimes billed as the second highest waterfall in Oregon but is also sometimes discounted because of its lack of volume. The entire waterfall is best viewed from Benson State Recreation Area, off of I-84, but a scramble to the base of the waterfall gives you a great impression of the lower drop as it spills over an overhanging layer of entablature basalt past a colorful layer of columnar basalt. The waterfall is indeed wispy, but it actually runs all year although windy days will see the spray splashed against the entire cliff face. In subzero temperatures, the amphitheater is quite a sight as it accumulates a frosty assortment of icicles. These can grow to be massive in size, and it is a dangerous time to be there when they start breaking off. The 2017 Eagle Creek Fire passed through the area as a ground fire and burned out some of the understory here, but the maple canopy is generally intact. There is no trail here, just a scramble path on loose scree often disguised by maple leaves and plant matter. It's a very short excursion but not one for those unsteady on their feet. Wear good boots, and bring a camera! The first few feet from the Mist Falls Trailhead are deceptively easy. You'll pass a plaque commemorating Rose Lenske, the landowner who, in 1971, donated five acres here for use as a park. Just after the plaque, the boot path reaches Mist Creek. There's a quick side trip available here to the ruins of the 1916 Multnomah Lodge, later renamed the Mist Falls Lodge. Look for an unmarked use trail across little Mist Creek. This 30 foot long path leads to the remnants of a fireplace and chimney from the lodge, which burned down in 1929. If you miss it, don't worry. It's a little easier to find on the way back, and those with good eyes can even see the chimney's profile from the parking wayside. Below the chimney is the walled path, washed out at Mist Creek, that led to the lodge's small parking area on the highway. A couple of rusting artifacts lie i

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160px-MistFallsChimneyJenThomas

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250px-MistFallsTrail

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250px-MistFallsCorydalis

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