A new perspective after crossing Eagle Creek below Punchbowl. Ansel Adams once said, “A good photograph is knowing where to stand.” A couple images illustrate.

Note: The images here were all shot prior to the devastating 2017 Eagle Creek wildfire that burned many of the trees; the fire was followed by a consequential landslide that re-routed the creek and demolished a classic view.

After a longish search on a dismal 2016 November day, I found an opening through tree limbs to capture a unique view of Oregon’s Punchbowl Falls. I shot through a matrix of foreground branches—often a distraction—but here presenting a pleasing, informing pattern that adds depth and frames the waterfall. The background mist softens (de-clutters) and creates mystery. Importantly, the famous waterfall is recognizable.

It’s not easy to get a unique image of a popular falls, and Punchbowl is second only to Multnomah Falls in Columbia Gorge waterfall fame. Its location, though—two miles from the trailhead on Eagle Creek—means no drive-by shoot; it is a frequent destination for day hikers in the know.

Despite the fire, hiking Eagle Creek is still a quintessential Gorge favorite. Always gorgeous, the basalt canyon itself shines in spring, fall and even winter—mossy rock walls, wildflowers, trees draped in greens and yellows, a rushy creek blessed not just with Punchbowl but with three more five-star waterfalls. Metlako Falls can be photographed in route to Punchbowl. Tunnel and Twister Falls, six miles one way, are best done by backpack to allow enough time for photography in early and late light.

Waterfalls here show best at moderately-high volume flows. Pre-landslide, getting a view from below Punchbowl required wading out into the shallow creek or walking gingerly on stepping stones, but the reward was a spectacular view of the Falls framed by green-black cliffs. The view was so fine, every downstream photo I’ve ever seen was shot from right there, varied only by focal length—and of course by the light, season and volume flow. The landslide collapse of the west flank destroyed that view, re-routing the creek. Now at high flows—flows that show the Falls well—a hazardous crossing of the creek is required. Summer visitors at low flows cross easily enough, but good luck then getting a memorable shot.

I captured images of Punchbowl many times, but in spring 2010, looking for a different view, I packed in a drysuit, old tennis shoes and a waterproof camera bag. After squeezing into the drysuit, tripod on shoulder, I waded in. The current was swift but passable. It got thigh deep on the far side, and the rocky bottom made the going slow. Quickly though, I scrambled up the bank and scouted for a best position. When I found it, I set the tripod and snaped the spring-green color intro shot above.

Two years later, the fall of 2012, I repeated the crossing, but this time we were blessed with a late rainfall, and water streaming from the cliffs. Sunlight briefly broke through. My friend Andy was in the creek capturing the classic view. The spot where he stood was perfect. A single image took in the scene, one of my all-time favorites. For a larger view, right click on the above image and chose “Open image in new tab” then click on the new tab.

I am gravely sorry that this view of Punchbowl is no longer possible. But new opportunity—new and different looks—are there for those knowing where to stand.

Comments appreciated,

Gary