Mosier Waterfall Park
Learn about our work at Mosier Waterfall Park.
Description
When a Columbia Land Trust founding board member moved to Mosier, Oregon, she was compelled by a “for sale” sign she saw on a piece of land around the Columbia Gorge’s last unprotected waterfall along Mosier Creek. A year later, Columbia Land Trust secured the entirety of the 17-acre Mosier Waterfall Park, which became the city of Mosier’s first-ever park.
Mosier Plateau is a 45-acre, cliff-top preserve located on the Oregon side of the Columbia Gorge with a 3.5-mile trail connecting to the community of Mosier. This stunning natural place is home to a diverse array of wildflowers and spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Mosier Plateau is known for its uniquely diverse community of wildflowers with over 50 different species represented. With peak wildflower season being mid-to-late April, visitors are greeted by sloping meadows bursting with color. Common native species like arrow leaf balsamroot, prairie star, paintbrush, blanket flower, and lupine are abundant, but Mosier Plateau is also home to the rare and sensitive species white fairy poppy (Meconella oregana). The plateau’s rocky cliffs are not just an outstanding view. The delicate white fairy poppy and other sensitive species need crumbling disturbed rocky cliff faces to grow.
These secluded groves are occupied by Oregon white oak, ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, snowberry, elderberry, chokecherry, and (enjoyed by animals, but not so popular among humans) poison oak. The oak woodlands and abundant understory provide forage and hiding spots for wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and even the elusive cougar. Today, it is known as the launching point for the beautiful Mosier Plateau Trail.
Directions
From the Portland/Vancouver-metro area, travel eastbound on I-84 E/US-30 E for approximately 67 miles. Take exit 69 for US-30 E toward Mosier. Continue on US-30 E and turn right onto Kingdom St. Then turn right onto Cherry Hill Dr.