Upper McCord Creek Falls

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

The Upper McCord Creek Falls run from the John B. Yeon Trailhead is a short and easily attainable run to some great views of McCord Creek Falls and a sneak peek of the surrounding area.

For a lower-level view of Elowah Falls, you can make an easy 1-mile out-and-back extension to the base of Elowah Falls - continue straight where the trail splits uphill and south to McCord Creek Falls.

The small parking lot at the trailhead can fill up fast on busy weekend summer days, so either get there early or expect to park along the side of the road.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:
John B Yeon Trailhead: Traveling east on I-84, take Exit #35/Ainsworth. Turn left at the stop sign, then immediately turn right onto the Frontage Rd. Drive east on Frontage Rd for 2.1 miles and turn right into the trailhead parking lot. The lot will be just before the road re-enters the highway.

Traveling west on I-84, take Exit #37/Warrendale. Head west on Warrendale Road for about 1/4 mile to a stop sign. Turn left, go under the freeway and turn left again onto Frontage Rd. Drive 1/4 mile east to the trailhead parking lot just before the road re-enters the highway.

THE ROUTE:
This run begins at the same trailhead as Nesmith Point and Elowah Falls runs, as well as Munra Point (from John B Yeon Trailhead). Almost immediately, keep left to follow the Gorge Trail #400 up the abandoned road. After a steep incline, you'll take a right at the fork to head up towards Upper McCord Creek Falls. After a few switchbacks, the trees will open up to views of the Gorge and Mt. Adams (north in Washington). The trail is cut into the wall and has railings. You'll see Elowah Falls from the top, just before entering the forest and reaching McCord Creek Falls.