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Gable Falls is a low-volume, little known yet lofty and surprisingly impressive waterfall on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. The falls lie on a parcel of land managed by the BLM, however, public access to that particular chunk of land is tricky at best. Private holdings block access directly up Good Bear Creek, so a moderate amount of off-trail travel is necessary to reach the falls. Good Bear Creek, formerly known as Gable Creek, has a very small drainage area, and most likely will run dry by May, if not sooner, but when there is enough water, the falls plummet 192 feet off the McKlosky Andesite formation into a narrow gorge.
- Gable Falls is the Historical name of this waterfall.
The Mazamas apparently were responsible for measuring the waterfall at 192 feet tall, but it isn't known exactly when it was measured. The name of the falls likely stems from the creek being known as Gable Creek before it was changed to Good Bear Creek.
Because reaching this waterfall is a difficult undertaking - mandating good route finding skills, a fair amount of steep scrambling and off-trail travel - not to mention potential private property issues, I am not posting directions at this time. Local trail groups have expressed interest in expanding the unofficial St. Cloud trail network, which might provide access to the falls, but until then, just enjoy the pictures.
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