Man Dies After Fall From Cliff Above Punchbowl Falls
A 19-year-old man from Kennewick, Washington, died after falling approximately 50-80 feet from a cliff above Punchbowl Falls in the Columbia River Gorge. The incident occurred when the man left the hiking trail to climb down the rock face and…
Portland, OR, August 3, 2026 —
A 19-year-old man from Kennewick, Washington, died following a fall from a cliff above Punchbowl Falls in the Columbia River Gorge. The incident, which authorities have ruled an accident, occurred when the individual left the established hiking trail.
According to available information, the man was attempting to climb down the rock face adjacent to the trail when he fell approximately 50 to 80 feet. He landed on rocks below the cliff. The exact circumstances leading to the fall were not detailed beyond the deviation from the marked trail.
Emergency services responded to the scene. The man sustained fatal injuries as a result of the fall. The Oregon State Police, which investigated the incident, confirmed the death and classified it as accidental.
Punchbowl Falls is a popular scenic area within the Columbia River Gorge, known for its natural beauty and hiking opportunities. However, the terrain can be steep and treacherous, particularly off the marked paths. Officials often warn visitors about the dangers of venturing away from designated trails in such environments.
No further details regarding the identity of the deceased or specific timelines of the incident beyond the day it occurred were provided.
Story summarized from the original created by FOX 12 Staff on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
