SHEPPERDS DELL STATE PARK
SHEPPERDS DELL STATE PARK
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 appreciated it unless you leave your car and take the short trail to the falls.
Located in the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, Shepperds Dell is a state natural area that has been attracting visitors for over 100 years. The park's history begins with George Shepperd who gifted this tract of land to the City of Portland in 1915 as an enduring memorial to his wife.
The dell itself comprises two small canyons which are home to several waterfalls cascading down basalt cliffs into Youngs Creek and eventually flowing into the mighty Columbia River. It was one among many areas along Highway 30 (also known as Historic Columbia River Highway) donated by private owners during its construction between 1913-1922 under Samuel Hill's supervision.
In addition to being part of America's first scenic highway system designed specifically for automobile travelers, it also became part of Guy W Talbot State Park from late twenties until mid-thirties when they were separated due their distinct characteristics but remained managed together till date.
Over time improvements have been made including trails leading up close views at lower falls and picnic facilities making it popular spot amongst tourists visiting Multnomah Falls or Rooster Rock State Parks nearby. Despite these changes much remains same preserving its original beauty thus continuing legacy left behind by Mr.Shepperd more than century ago.
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