John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor

John B. Yeon State Scenic Corridor is a protected natural area in the Columbia River Gorge featuring interconnected hiking paths to two waterfalls. The main attractions are Elowah Falls, which drops steeply over dark rock walls, and Upper McCord Creek Falls, which cascades through lush vegetation.

The area takes its name from John B. Yeon, a Portland businessman who valued the landscape in the early 1900s and supported its preservation. Formal recognition as a state scenic corridor came later as the public value of this river section became clearer.

The corridor demonstrates the Pacific Northwest tradition of maintaining natural spaces while creating access points for public recreational activities.

The area sits about 35 miles east of Portland and is easily accessed via Interstate 84, with marked parking areas at the trailheads. The hikes are moderate and well-maintained, with clear paths and enough room for visitors throughout the year.

The basalt formations were created during ancient volcanic eruptions and form sharp-edged structures visible in the waterfalls and rock walls. This geological makeup makes the waterfalls visually distinct and sets them apart from others in the region.

Location: Oregon

Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=114

GPS coordinates: 45.61960,-121.98700

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41