Father & son find rattlesnake at waterfall in Oregon Columbia Gorge, prompting warnings for hikers

father hiking with his teenage son at Wahkeena Falls encountered a rattlesnake on Sunday, prompting him to warn other hikers about potential dangers on the trail.

The man, identified as Ellis, said the snake was blocking their descent, highlighting the importance of being prepared for such encounters in the drier climate.

"We came across a rattlesnake. So it was on the path, it was blocking our descent. So that’s another thing too, it is in the drier climate. Expect to find something like that, and do your research too, to know what, if the rattlesnakes are in that area," Ellis said.

The incident occurred during the busiest time of the year for rescue teams.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is urging hikers to be prepared, as deputies have found that many people needing rescue are not equipped for trail and weather conditions. Some hikers become disoriented and lost due to unfamiliarity with the area.

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Author: KATU News
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News post in at: July 1, 2025, 3:01 am.

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