“Steelhead Falls”, Deschutes River

Description

“Steelhead Falls” Deschutes River, Central Oregon

Steelhead Falls is a local favorite hiking spot and swimming hole.  This section of the Middle Deschutes Canyon is rugged, beautiful and has a distinctly western feel.  Located about 45 minutes from Bend, Oregon, Steelhead Falls is an excellent day trip for hikers who want to be swimmers!  Fishing is good in upstream and downstream of the falls and wildflower viewing is excellent in spring while the Deschutes’ waters run cold.  Be forewarned, when wildflowers begin to bloom in this stretch of the Deschutes Riveer, rattle snakes can be active.  Stay on trails and wear appropriate clothing when visiting in the summer months.  While only 20 feet tall, the falls have a powerful yet gentle beauty like a team of clydesdales, hauling a heavy load.  The roar of the falls from the obvious viewpoint is impressive.  Located in the Crooked River Ranch Development, the falls are a bit tricky to find but worth the effort.

In hot summer months, you will likely find lots of young adventurers leaping off of the 25 foot high canyon wall in the always cold waters of the Deschutes.  For further adventure, continue down-stream as far as you like, the handsome Deschutes River Canyon offers many beautiful views.

Directions to Steelhead Falls

From Bend…

-drive north on Highway 97 past Redmond and Terrebonne

-Turn left on Lower Bridge Road and continue for approximately 2 miles

-Turn right on NW 43st and continue for another 2 miles

-Turn left at the fork in the road on Chinook Drive and continue for about 1.5 miles

-Turn left on SW Badger Rd and continue for 1.75 miles

-Turn right on SW Quail Rd and continue for about 1 mile

-Turn left on River Rd and continue for 0.5 miles and the road ends at the trailhead parking lot.

The Trail to the falls is about one mile.  Return to your car via the same trail.