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A Rare View, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon photo
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A Rare View

Columbia River Gorge - Oregon

A rare view of Matlako Falls photographed from the top of a nearby cascade that flows into another un-named waterfall. This view of Matlako Falls is rarely photographed from this perspective due to the difficultly in reaching this spot. Previous floods have washed heavy debris into the path of the foreground cascade making it very dangerous in reaching this area as well as downed trees, heavy overgrowth, poison ivy  and not to mention the slippery river rock.

Directions: To reach this view point from I-84, take exit 41 and follow the sign for Eagle Creek Park. Once you enter the park, follow the narrow road to the very end and park in the parking area. ($5.00 Parking Fee) Take the main trail for Punch Bowl Falls and Matlako Falls. At 1.6 miles, you will come to a cascade. Cross over the cascade about 25 feet and look to your right. You will see some downed logs that lead down about 15 feet to the cascading creek below. Scale down the logs to the creek and follow the crreek on the left side to the bottom. Approx. 100 yards) Please note: This paticular area is the perfect home for snakes and spiders. There is heavy brush, overgrowth, downed logs, poison ivy and slippery river rock that block your path to the bottom. Be very cautious with each foot placement. You may want to carry your tri-pod extended all the way out or a walking stick to aid you in your decent to the bottom. Poison ivy is everywhere throughout this cascade area so watch where you put your hands. Best time to Photograph: On a partly cloudy day when the sun is directly overhead. Wait till the sun peaks in and out of the clouds for the best lighting. The above image was photographed with heavy cloud cover with very few breaks in the clouds.


From here, continue on another .2 miles and you will come to Lower Punch Bowl Falls. Enter the creek to the left of the lower falls and wade up 100 yards in chest high water for a beautiful view of Punch Bowl Falls. There is a giant boulder in the center just after you enter the water you can prop yourself up on so your not completely in the water while photographing. Make sure you have a water proof back-pack. Photo © copyright by Erik and Melissa Barnes.

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