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Matlako Falls, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon photo
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Matlako Falls Close-Up

Columbia River Gorge - Oregon

Due to the difficulty in reaching this spot, this view of Matlako Falls is rarely viewed or photographed.

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: When the sun is high.

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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