Bridal Veil is a ghost town on the southern bank of the Columbia River. Set up during the logging boom of the late 18th century, its only reminders of urbanity are the town’s post office and cemetery. Enjoy the unnerving ambiance in this town surrounded by waterfalls.
The allure of the town lies in its location beside the picturesque terrain of Bridal Veil Falls State Park. Gaze up at the awe-inspiring namesake waterfall, down which fearless kayakers plunge. Farther east is the impressive Benson State Recreation Area. Stand on the diminutive bridge in front of the huge Multnomah Falls and follow scenic trails to the tiered cascades of Wahkeena Falls.
The waterfalls in this region remain strong year-round, partially due to the consistent rainy weather. Expect drier, hotter days in July and August. Bring a picnic lunch on a sunny afternoon to enjoy along the banks of the Columbia River.
Visit the ghost town for the tiny wooden hut housing the Bridal Veil Post Office. Among the smallest post offices in the U.S., it remains busy stamping wedding invitations with the official Bridal Veil postmark. Speak with a staff member about the history of the site, which was formerly a tool shed, and see the stamps of interlocking hearts and doves.
Bridal Veil was initially established in 1886 by a logging company, but most business operations closed down in the 1960s. Wander through the cemetery, whose final burial was in 1934. It is the only other recognizable landmark in the town, since the demolition of the community church in 2011.
The town is just south of the Washington-Oregon border that runs along the Columbia River. Fly to Portland International Airport and drive east for 24 miles (39 kilometres) to get here. Visit some of the nearby cities in this part of northwestern Oregon, such as Portland, Gresham and Lincoln City.
The spectacular sets of falls add colour to the intriguing ghost town of Bridal Veil.
