Lancaster Falls

Lancaster Falls is a three-drop waterfall on Wonder Creek in the wooded slope west of Starvation Creek. From the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, you see the lowest cascade; most of the waterfall rises up the steep hillside, so expect a small, intimate view rather than a full panorama. Its name honors Samuel C. Lancaster, the engineer behind much of the original Columbia River Highway.

Start at Starvation Creek State Park and follow the state trail west. Lancaster is about 0.8 mile from the trailhead, beyond Cabin Creek and Hole-in-the-Wall falls; give yourself time for those stops too. The state trail is described as paved and well graded, but accounts differ about whether the final approach to Lancaster itself is step-free. A closer look toward the upper falls involves a steep, crumbly climb where poison oak is common.

Restrooms and potable water are at the Starvation Creek trailhead, not at the falls. Its parking area is accessible only from eastbound I-84; westbound drivers must continue to the Wyeth exit and double back east. For a photo, keep the mossy rocks and green banks around the lower water in frame; that setting tells the story better than a tight shot of white water.