Pacific Crest Trail: Eagle Creek Alternate

Eagle Creek is a popular alternate route for PCT thru hikers. While the official PCT section through the gorge is a lovely hike, it misses the wonders of Eagle Creek including the many spectacular waterfalls.This alternate route begins where the Indian Springs Trail (#435) meets up with the PCT at the unmaintained Indian Springs Campground. Follow this trail as it descends steadily, and sometimes steeply, down to the Eagle Creek Trail (#440).Turn left onto the gentler Eagle Creek Trail and continue descending slightly until Eagle Creek itself finally comes into view.Twister Falls is the first of many waterfalls that you will come to. Immediately afterward is a section of trail with some exposure and a cable that you can hold onto. Now is a good time to mention that there are several sections of exposed trail like this, if you have a severe fear of heights you may not enjoy yourself!Tunnel Falls is just around the corner, and is the highlight of the entire alternate route. You'll walk through a tunnel behind this impressive waterfall.Several more waterfalls await, including Punch Bowl Falls, as you continue down Eagle Creek. Finally you'll come to the trailhead. Follow the road to the campground, then briefly hop on the Gorge Trail (#400) before joining the paved Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.Pass underneath Interstate 84 and continue following this trail all the way until you reach the Bridge of the Gods and Cascade Locks. This is where the alternate route ends and you'll rejoin the official PCT.