|
Stella Falls is a small but pretty horsetailing waterfall which can be found adjacent to Highway 4 between Longview and Cathlamet on the Washington side of the Columbia River. The falls cascade over a blocky cliff of columnar basalt - the base formation of which in essence is part of the lower extension of the Columbia River Gorge, extending from near the mouth of the Columbia all the way to the Portland area. The falls drain a small basin made up of mostly low-lying woodlands and farms and though the area does receive considerable precipitation, the falls exhibit a substantial flux in volume over the course of the year. During the winter months they flow with vigor but by mid summer only a trickle of water may be present (and during drought years the falls may run dry entirely).
- Stella Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
- Known Alternate Names: Fall Creek Falls
We are not aware of any official names for this waterfall, but we have seen enough references to suggest that the proper colloquial title is Stella Falls, after the nearby community. It may also be acceptably known simply as Fall Creek Falls after the stream.
From Interstate 5 in Kelso, exit onto Highway 4 and follow it west towards Cathlamet and Long Beach for about 11.3 miles and watch for the falls through the trees on the north side of the road. If you cross Germany Creek you've got about 4/10ths of a mile too far. There is not much room to park along the highway, maybe room for 2-3 cars, from which point scramble paths lead 100 feet to the base of the falls (it may be necessary to get your feet wet to avoid the thickest brush).
|
