Umbrella Falls

Umbrella Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon. The falls are named for their unique shape, as the water flows over a curved rock formation that creates a canopy-like effect.

To hike to Umbrella Falls, start at the trailhead off of Highway 35. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. It is a 2.4 mile out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of about 550 feet. The hike should take about 2 hours to complete.

The trail to Umbrella Falls passes through a lush old-growth forest, with towering trees and a dense canopy overhead. As you hike, you’ll hear the sound of the falls growing louder and louder, until you finally reach a viewing platform that offers a stunning view of the falls.

From the viewing platform, you can see the falls in all their splendor, cascading down the curved rock face and creating a beautiful, umbrella-shaped spray. The water is clear and icy cold, and it’s a popular spot for hikers to cool off on a hot summer day.

After taking in the view, you can continue hiking along the trail, which eventually leads to a bridge that crosses over the top of the falls. On the other side of the bridge, the trail continues on to the base of the falls, where you can get an up-close view of the rushing water.

Overall, Umbrella Falls is a must-see for anyone visiting the Mount Hood National Forest. The hike is relatively easy and the views are truly breathtaking. Just be sure to bring along plenty of water, as the trail can be strenuous in the summer heat.