The Historic Columbia River Highway between Bridal Veil and Ainsworth has closed, along with all recreation sites on that stretch of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
The area, known as the “Waterfall Corridor,” is closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, according to a U.S. Forest Service news release.
The closure includes Angels Rest, Wahkeena Falls, and Horsetail Falls, as all Oregon state campgrounds and parks have also closed. Oneonta Trail and Lower Oneonta Falls were already closed due to increased landscape hazards from the Eagle Creek Fire in 2017.
People are still allowed to hike if they can maintain 6 feet of distance from other hikers, but if the trail is too crowded, it’s recommended that you explore another, less populated trail or walk in your neighborhood.
Scenic area leadership will continue to evaluate risks at other “close proximity” recreation sites, according to the news release, and may implement new closures with little advanced notice, if warranted.
