Ponytail Falls
Columbia Gorge, OR
PONYTAIL FALLS
A BRIEF SUMMARY OF PONYTAIL FALLS
Ponytail Falls is a simple falls located just above the much more famous Horsetail falls in the Columbia Gorge. However, it is one of the prettiest waterfalls in the gorge and it can produce some great photographic opportunities.
You can shoot these falls from many different angles: from the trail to the left, from the right of the creek, placed in the creek, or from behind the falls (as the trail goes behind the falls).
Images and location summary by Tim Wier
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DATA POINTS INCLUDED WITH PONYTAIL FALLS SUMMARY
I would rate the difficulty of this trail as a 3 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being most difficult). The hike on the Horsetail Falls #438 trailhead is a fairly strenuous ¼ mile hike up a steep hill with several switchbacks. Once you get to the falls, you will need to hike down 20yds. or so to the Horsetail Creek and find the best position to compose your shot.
I would suggest bringing waders/wet shoes as you will most likely be walking/standing/sitting in water.
There are multiple ways to shoot this location: 1) from the trail looking down on the falls, 2) in the creek looking up at the falls, and 3) from the alcove behind the falls. I would explore each to find the composition that is best for you.
The above shot was taken with a 20mm lens. Depending on the composition you are looking for, you can use anything from a 16mm to a 35mm lens.
80 Ft. Elevation
Other Resources Available with Membership
KMZ Trail File
Directions
Best Time of Day to Shoot
Best Time of Year to Shoot
Equipment Needed
Permits Required
Direction of Shot
Google Maps Birds-Eye-View
Number of Photographers to Expect
Cell Service
Overnight Lodging/Camping
Nearby Restaurants
Area Guides and Workshops
Other Resources
LOCATION SUMMARIES WRITTEN BY PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS
