Find Latourell Falls on the Historic Columbia River Highway a few miles East of Corbett, Oregon. The land that makes up the State Park where the falls is located was donated by Guy Talbot at the time the highway was constructed. This is the lower falls, a short walk from the parking area. Unicorns love waterfalls, so Mr. Thornsby is thrilled that the Friends of the Columbia River Gorge have put together the 25 waterfall challenge this year.
At the base of the lower falls - always a cool and windy spot whatever the time of year.
Columnar basalt forms the wall behind the waterfall. From here the creek goes a short distance into the Columbia River.
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| Lichens cover the rock face next to the falls |
A short distance to the West is Shepperd's Dell - another land donation that was inspired by the construction of the HCRH. There are only a couple of pull-outs by the road here and you walk a very short distance to overlook the falls.
Some people claim that the Columbia River Gorge contains the highest concentration of waterfalls in the world. Yes, I think this is possible - aren't we fortunate to have this special place in our backyard?
Mr. Thornsby says the falling water increases humidity and positive ions in the air - it's all good!
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| Looking back at the highway from the Dell |
Ferns love the waterfalls, too. These are Deer Fern (
Blechnum spicant), an important winter food for deer and elk in some areas.
