{"id":352946,"date":"2026-07-07T10:00:07","date_gmt":"2026-07-07T10:00:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/uncategorized\/complete-guide-to-visiting-oregons-horsetail-falls-ponytail-falls-2026\/"},"modified":"2026-07-07T10:00:07","modified_gmt":"2026-07-07T10:00:07","slug":"complete-guide-to-visiting-oregons-horsetail-falls-ponytail-falls-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=352946","title":{"rendered":"Complete Guide to Visiting Oregon\u2019s Horsetail Falls & Ponytail Falls (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"


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What to Expect on the Trail<\/h2>\n
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\"Horsetail<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Horsetail Falls<\/h3>\n

Horsetail Falls is a gorgeous waterfall just steps from the parking lot, so it\u2019s ideal for those with littles or mobility issues. Sources vary, but its height is recorded somewhere between 176 and 214 feet. Either way, it\u2019s a quick and easy spot to snap a photo or take in the falls before starting the hike.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The waterfall is easily accessible and visible from the road, making it a great option even for those not planning to hike further. In fact, my dad isn\u2019t able to walk super far and this is one of the waterfalls I added to the list when my parents were visiting because it\u2019s easy to view with a short walk from the car.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019d like to get a closer look, there are steps leading down to the base of the falls. While the descent is short, take care as the steps can be slippery, especially after rain. Just to the side of the falls, there is a picnic table if you\u2019d like to have a nice place for a bite to eat before or after your hike.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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\"Ponytail<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Ponytail Falls<\/h3>\n

One of the most unique features of this hike is Ponytail Falls, where the trail takes you directly behind the cascading water. Again, sources vary on the actual height of this waterfall, ranging anywhere from 82 to 125 feet. Regardless, it\u2019s one of my favorites!<\/p>\n

The trail to Ponytail Falls (also called Upper Horsetail Falls) includes most of its elevation gain at the very start of the trail, but the effort is well worth it. Walking behind a waterfall is a magical experience that never gets old \u2013 no matter how many times you\u2019ve done it.<\/p>\n

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\"Hiker<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Views of the Columbia River Gorge<\/h3>\n

After passing Ponytail Falls, the trail offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. You\u2019ll catch glimpses of the river and surrounding cliffs, making this a great spot to pause and enjoy the scenery before continuing to Middle Oneonta Falls.<\/p>\n

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\"Hiker<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Middle Oneonta Falls (Optional)<\/h3>\n

Middle Oneonta Falls is a quieter and less crowded gem along the trail. If you continue on, you\u2019ll be rewarded with this beautiful waterfall.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Note:<\/strong> The path to Middle Oneonta Falls can have narrow and uneven sections, so tread carefully. While conditions may vary depending on recent weather, I think it\u2019s worth the extra steps!<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udcf8 If you like taking pics with your phone, this flexible tripod is a must have for hiking!<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n