Victor von Salza

Hardy Falls & Rodney Falls (Pool of Winds)

This hike takes you up a steep but beautifully forested climb to three tiers of waterfalls.  Start at the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead and climb up to Hardy Creek. You'll come to a side trail leading downhill to a viewpoint of the lowest tier, known as Hardy Falls. This is a 90 foot plunge straight into a beautiful green pool.
Next, after a short distance past the Hardy Falls spur, you'll see a signed spur heading up to the left, leading to Rodney Falls or Pool of the Winds. At Pool of the Winds, Hardy Creek is channeled into a funnel-like chamber in the cliff face. From the Pool of the Winds junction, the main trail switchbacks down to a bridge over Hardy Creek, just at the base of the middle falls of Rodney Falls.

Trail Map

Driving Directions

Hamilton Mountain Trailhead: Take I-84 East and exit at Cascade Locks. Cross the Columbia River to Washington State over the Bridge of the Gods (toll required). Take a left on Rt 14 and go seven miles. Watch for Beacon Rock - it will tower in front of you as you approach the state park, which is near mile marker 35. Turn right into the campground and follow it uphill a short ways and take your first right into the small trailhead parking lot.