Photo: U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
🌤 Weather at George W. Joseph State Natural Area by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35–66 °F | 47–80 °F | 37–74 °F | 33–48 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Skamania Fish Hatchery, 6 mi away, elevation 435 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Forest above Latourell Creek in the Columbia River Gorge that holds Upper Latourell Falls and part of the Latourell Falls Loop trail.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Multnomah County, Oregon (Columbia River Gorge) |
| Entry Fee | No separate fee; parking at Latourell Falls Trailhead requires a $10/vehicle day-use parking permit ($12 non-resident) |
| Access | Latourell Falls Trailhead, Historic Columbia River Highway |
| Trailhead Hours | 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (as of October 2026) |
About George W. Joseph State Natural Area
George W. Joseph State Natural Area is a protected stretch of forest in the Columbia River Gorge, next to Guy W. Talbot State Park. It has no parking lot or facilities of its own: you walk in from the Latourell Falls Trailhead on the Historic Columbia River Highway. According to Oregon State Parks, Upper Latourell Falls and part of the Latourell Falls Loop trail lie inside the natural area. It is named for the Joseph family, who gave the land to the state in 1934 and 1942.
Things to Do
The reason to come is the Latourell Falls Loop, a popular 2-mile trail that Oregon State Parks rates as moderately difficult. From the trailhead you cross the highway and follow Latourell Creek over rocky stretches, through dense foliage and over four small wooden bridges to Upper Latourell Falls. It is a two-tiered drop: a block fall that is almost hidden, then a plunge into a pool. The loop returns to the highway along the opposite bank.
Near the parking area, a short walk under the 1914 highway bridge in Guy W. Talbot State Park takes you to the base of Lower Latourell Falls, a 224-foot plunge over columnar basalt splashed with chartreuse lichen.
Getting There
Park at the Latourell Falls Trailhead on the Historic Columbia River Highway, next to the hamlet of Latourell and about 26 miles east of downtown Portland by road. Since March 30, 2026, parking there requires an Oregon State Parks day-use parking permit: $10 per vehicle, or $12 for non-residents (as of October 2026). The trailhead is open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Homes in Latourell border the park, so please respect residents’ privacy.
Insider Tips
Two falls, one stop: Lower Latourell Falls is only a few minutes from the parking area, so you can see it even if you skip the loop. Footing: The loop crosses rocky sections and small wooden bridges; wear shoes with grip. Picnic: Guy W. Talbot State Park, at the trailhead, has a grassy picnic slope and a picnic shelter you can rent.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Mild, with average highs around 80°F at the nearest NOAA station (Skamania Fish Hatchery, 1991–2020 normals). Spring and fall: Highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s. Winter: Cool and wet, with highs around 48°F. Any season: The trailhead is open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a parking permit for George W. Joseph State Natural Area?
Yes, at the trailhead. You reach the natural area from the Latourell Falls Trailhead at Guy W. Talbot State Park, which requires an Oregon State Parks day-use parking permit ($10 per vehicle, $12 for non-residents, as of October 2026). The natural area charges no separate fee.
Which waterfall is in George W. Joseph State Natural Area?
Upper Latourell Falls, on the Latourell Falls Loop. The 224-foot Lower Latourell Falls near the highway is part of neighboring Guy W. Talbot State Park.
Wildlife & Nature
The loop climbs through dense forest along Latourell Creek. On the picnic slope of neighboring Guy W. Talbot State Park, Oregon State Parks lists Port Orford cedars, Douglas-firs, alders and maples.
Nearby Attractions
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area — surrounding. Portland — about 26 miles west by road.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Guy W. Talbot State Park (next door), Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint (a short drive away) or Ainsworth State Park (a short drive away).
🌲 Visit George W. Joseph State Natural Area
Oregon outdoor recreation!
🐾 Dogs & Pets at George W. Joseph State Natural Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at George W. Joseph State Natural Area?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for George W. Joseph State Natural Area
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
