Eagle Creek

Ruckel Creek Exploration

For the final day of my brief 2 day trip to the Gorge, I wanted to explore the highly touted stretch of the Columbia River Gorge on the Oregon side. It is best known for its high density of wonderful waterfalls and easy access off of Interstate 84. After some research, I narrowed my options down to a couple sites and selected Ruckel Creek. Access for Ruckel Creek is accomplished via the very popular Eagle Creek Trailhead. From here, a brief half mile hike eastward through lush forest puts you at the official trailhead.

A bit of a misnomer, the Ruckel Creek Trail starts next to the creek but quickly switchbacks above and away from it. I had no lofty goals so I explored the immediate banks of the creek above & below the trailhead. Sunny skies make for very tough photography so I made the best of it. I would love to return on a cloudy or overcast day!..

Lower Ruckel Creek falls below the trailhead
Lower Ruckel Creek falls
Ruckel Creek forest
Ruckel Creek
Ruckel Creek
Ruckel Creek
Ruckel Creek
Ruckel Creek panorama

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