Shepperd's Dell State Natural Area

In 1915, a local dairy farmer named George Shepperd gave all that he had (this tract of land) to the City of Portland as a memorial to his wife. Today, thousands of visitors along the Historic Columbia River Highway visit this beautiful spot, with its roaring waterfall cascading down steep cliffs into Youngs Creek and out to the Columbia River far below. The upper fall is around 42' tall. The lower tier is around 50' tall.

One of the most beautiful and historic highway bridges crosses the canyon here, but you can't see or appreciate it unless you leave your car and take the short trail to the falls.

Park History

Acquired by gift, exchange and purchase between 1940 and 1984. The original tract of land, including the dell, was given first to the city of Portland in 1915 by George G. Shepperd as a memorial to his wife. Later the tract was given by the city to the state.

Acreage: 520.99