Top 10 Oregon waterfall hikes. Oregon is blessed with an amazing collection of waterfalls, arguably the most impressive in the United States. This, of course, means many readers will have a favorite waterfall which is not on my list. That’s actually good. It will give me more waterfalls to explore and hopefully photograph. I’ve ventured to hundreds of Oregon’s waterfalls and have loved most of them. As I approach the exploration of Oregon waterfalls from the perspective of an Oregon Landscape Photographer, I tend to dig in deep and thoroughly analyze the waterfalls I visit. So, in my opinion, here are, in no particular order, the top 10 waterfall hikes in Oregon!
1. Tumalo Falls Hike, Deschutes National Forest.
Bend Oregon’s beautiful Tumalo Falls in summer with a foreground of wildflowers.
Where do I start with my list of the top 10 waterfalls in Oregon? Well, I start …at home. I live in Bend, Oregon and Tumalo Falls is one of our iconic local attractions, located approximately 10 miles from Downtown Bend , beautiful Mirror Pond and Drake Park.
The hike to Tumalo Falls is not….a hike. It is a 50 foot stroll from the parking lot to the viewing point. Don’t think of Tumalo Falls as your destination, think of it as your gateway. Hiking and Mountain Biking trails spring off in all directions from Tumalo Falls. Waterfall enthusiasts have an easy decision to make, to see more waterfalls or not! By following the obvious trail on the south side of Tumalo Creek, Hikers will gradually gain elevation and enjoy countless waterfalls, most of which are remarkable as stand-alone waterfalls. The first waterfall beyond Tumalo Falls is approximately one mile upstream with the next being another 1/4 mile further. Hikers can pick their own adventure as this hike is an out and back. I recommend continuing approximately 3 miles upstream from the parking area to an unnamed waterfall I’ve dubbed, Turtle Falls. Turtle Falls is a 40 foot tall, wide curtain of powerful water. It is Really loud and quite awe-inspiring and an excellent turn-around point
Turtle Falls, Tumalo Creek
Intrepid hikers with lots of adventure time can continue uphill beyond Turtle Falls and and eventually reach Broken Top Mountain and its incomparable alpine beauty.
There are many other trails in the Tumalo Falls area which provide endless options for Hikers and mountain bikers.
2. Proxy Falls Hike, Three Sisters Wilderness, near McKenzie
Pass
Oregon’s beautiful Proxy Falls, located in the Three Sisters Wilderness Area
The Hike to Proxy Falls is almost as refreshing as the waterfall itself. The 1.5 mile loop trail quickly enters the western edge of the Three Sisters Wilderness Area as it ambles through old growth fir and cedar forests and over the top of ancient lava flows.
Early spring brings a proliferation of Rhododendron blooms and autumn offers a kaleidoscope of vine maple foliage. The hike, while not appropriate for disabled travelers, is considered family friendly.
The hike gradually gains elevation as it gently weaves through a temperate rain forest. Most hikers tend to hike this trail in a counter-clockwise direction, which brings them to Lower Proxy Falls( pictured to the right)first. This photographically stunning waterfall is the main attraction on this magical hike. At 226 feet tall, Proxy Falls and its braided patterns mesmerize countless hikers every year. The Proxy waterfall hike brings hikers to an overlook of its namesake waterfall. the view is attractive but the magic lies below. Intrepid hikers should scramble down the often muddy slopes beneath the viewpoint, following the obvious trail. This scramble is NOT for everyone but is easily passable for able bodied hikers. Prepare to get wet and like it. Spray fills the basin beneath the falls, stimulating the senses. There are undeveloped trails that parallel the falls on both sides. Depending on stream-flows, wet shoes may be a requirement.
After frolicking in the refreshing spray of this magnificent waterfall, hop back onto the loop trail and continue. If you started in a counter-clockwise direction, you will reach Upper Proxy Falls after a 1/2 mile stroll. You will notice a small sign indicating a trail departing to the right hand side of the trail. Take it! This leads to Upper Proxy, a wonderful “Bonus” waterfall. While not the showstopper that Lower Proxy is, it is well worth exploration and it is an excellent place for a lunch break. Bring your own lunch, it will not be provided for you! After your bonus, continue the short hike back to the parking area.
Directions to the Proxy Falls Hike:
-From Bend, drive west on Highway 20 to the city of Sisters
-In Sisters, follow signage to McKenzie Pass(OR 242) approximately 15 miles where you reach the Dee Wright observatory, a worthy rest spot with spectacular views of the Oregon Cascades and an extensive lava flow. Be forewarned, while beautiful, highway 242 is not for those prone to car sickness. The road winds mercilessly, is very narrow, and has some steep shoulders.
-From the observatory, continue another 12 miles to the obvious trailhead for the Proxy Falls trail. Bathrooms are available at the trailhead.
3. Multnomah Falls Hike, Columbia River Gorge
Oregon’s beautiful Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
Where to start with Oregon Waterfalls…maybe from the top! At 627 feet tall, Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall. Located in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah is visible and accessible from Highway 84 which runs East-West through the gorge. Multnomah is not one of my favorite waterfalls because it offers solitude because…it doesn’t! It has a huge parking lot and a very busy visitor’s center. Multnomah makes my list because it is stunning, family friendly, and offers some wonderful hiking opportunities along side and above the falls. The historic Multnomah Falls lodge, was thankfully spared from this past summers horrendous wildfires in the Columbia River Gorge. I’d like to extend a special thanks to all of the firefighters who help save the lodge and countless other special places in the Gorge. For visitors who suffer from time constraints, the Benson Bridge, centered in the image at left, is a worthy destination. From the bridge, visitors will have sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge as well as the impressive upper drop of the falls. The feel of fresh spray and the rich aroma of ionized water make the short hike worth the effort for an able-bodied visitor.
Multnomah Falls varies tremendously throughout the year as this part of the Columbia River Gorge experience a full four seasons. Intrepid hikers can continue up the trail adjacent to the falls enduring 11 different switchbacks and enjoy the viewing platform at the top of the falls. The Very brave can continue on the Larch Mountain Trail which continues beyond the top of Multnomah Falls and includes a side spur to the panoramic point, Sherrard Point.
4. Toketee Falls Hike, North Umpqua River
Toketee Falls Photo, North Umpqua River, Southern Oregon
Toketee Falls and its short but beautiful hike are all about the details. specifically, amazingly intricate details of intricate basalt columns. The framing of Toketee Falls via a symmetrical basalt column gateway is almost too perfect to be believable. It must be seen to be appreciated. The Hike to Toketee Falls is a family friendly but not handicap accessible 0.5 miles one way to a viewing platform where the North Umpqua River double drops. The first about 30 feet and the second about 70 feet. You will know when you’ve arrived at the trailhead because a huge and unusual wooden irrigation tube runs along one side of the parking area. I mean, it is really big… maybe 20 feet tall… leaking like a sieve and bands together with steel straps. Frankly, it doesn’t look safe!
The hike itself is beautiful if not arduous. You will experience a very tropical feeling forest, more evocative of Kauai than of southern Oregon. Old growth trees, giant ferns and lush undergrowth flank the banks of the deep volcanic gorge which has been scoured by the waters of the North Umpqua River. The hike is an out and back and is a nice road trip diversion for families. There is an obvious but dangerous trails that plummets down into the waterfall’s natural amphitheater. It is not for everyone. I’ve never read of fatalities on this unofficial side trail, but they are a distinct possibility. Know that you have been forewarned and know that the view from below is really stunning. You get a water-level view to enjoy the falls’s ionized spray and the up-close details of this amazing natural wonder.
Directions to the Toketee Falls Hike:
From Bend, drive south on highway 97 for 75 miles and turn right on Highway 138 towards Crater Lake National Park. Continue on Highway 138 for 42 miles and take a right on Forest Road 34. Cross the first bridge and the parking lot for the trail is on the left. The trailhead for the Toketee Falls Hike is at the far end of the Parking lot. Remember, if you see the giant ,leaky wooden irrigation pipe, you are at the right place!
5. Thor’s Well, Cape Perpetua, Yachats, Oregon
Thor’s Well, Yachats, Oregon. Oregon Coast Landscape photography
Wait, a waterfall in the ocean….yep, and it’s awesome! Thor’s Well may have made my list on a technicality but I stand by it as it is unique and I like it! Located near the quaint seaside town of Yachats, Oregon, Part of what makes Thor’s Well so special is it’s proximity to several other interesting coastal features which are also located in the Cape Perpetua National Scenic Area.-
Short Hikes to the Devil’s Churn, the Spouting Horn, and Cook’s Chasm are are close by and all visually stunning, as the view from the Cape Perpetua overlook and its stunning view to the South along the Pacific Coast.
Thor’s Well requires a high tide in order for ocean surges to fill the Well’s coastal cave and force water upward before it forms a brief circle waterfall after each surge.
Directions to Cape Perpetua:
There are multiple routes to Cape Perpetua and Thor’s Well from Central Oregon.
-Drive west on highway 20 out of Bend, through the city of Sisters and over Santiam Pass.
-Take highway 126 for 68 miles and continue to the city of Eugene.
-Merge onto I-5 North toward Portland for 1.2 miles
-Merge onto the Randy-Pape belt line ( OR 569 W) which becomes OR 126 West, which you will take for 55 miles
-Turn right on North Fork Road and continue for 0.9 miles
-Turn left on Munsel Lake Road for 2.1 miles
-Turn right on US 101 for 21 miles and arrive at Cape Perpetua.
6. Oneonta Falls Hike, Columbia River Gorge
Oneonta-Falls and Oneonta Gorge, located in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge
The Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge is blessed with countless interesting waterfalls, making is one of the most waterfall rich areas of the United States. A personal favorite amongst Gorge waterfalls is the famed Oneonta Falls, located in the stunning Oneonta Gorge. 100 foot tall Oneonta Falls is located a half mile upstream in the incomparable Oneonta Gorge, a 200 foot deep moss covered slot canyon which at points is only 6 feet wide.
Hikers be forewarned, you will get wet on this hike! Even in warm summer months, there is one pool which is the full width of the canyon which will be chest deep on a 6 foot tall person. If you are bringing camera gear, bring a dry bag. the Same goes for your phone!
The Short hike to Oneonta Falls are simply stunning but another warning should be headed. At the beginning of the hike, Oneonta Creek and Gorge are blockaded by a huge log jam. I mean its really big! This sounds like a minor detail but wet logs with dangerous drops into the creek below are a dangerous combination. It is my understanding that at least one person has died at this log jam…. Please be careful if you choose to proceed. If you do, be prepared for a magical mossy gem of an experience!
Directions to Oneonta Falls:
-From Bend, take highway 97 north for 40 miles to the city of Madras,OR
-In Madras,take highway 26 West towards Portland for 100 miles
-In the city of Gresham, follow sign to I 84 East towards Hood River, Oregon for 16 miles to the Oneonta Gorge trail head.
7. Abiqua Falls Hike, near Scotts Mills, Willamette Valley Oregon
The amazing Abiqua Falls in Oregon’s Willamette Valley
Abiqua Falls is a stunning natural amphitheater composed almost entirely of volcanic basalt columns adorned with vibrant orange lichen.
Abiqua Falls, by itself is an elegant 100 foot tall single drop waterfall but the scene is about much more than the falls. The amphitheater is simply stunning, like something out of Jurassic Park. Moss-laden big leaf maples, Douglas Firs, Cedars and hemlock harmoniously mesh with the extraordinary basalt patterns of this stunning rocky basin.
Abiqua Falls is located on land belonging to the Mount Angel Abbey which graciously allows visitors to experience this exquisite place. Please be respectful of the surrounding environment. Access has been prohibited in the past and with misbehavior, it is a future possibility.
The hike to Abiqua Falls from the trailhead is relatively short but not a simple one. The trail is steep, often muddy, and slippery but it does have ropes fixed in critical locations to aid hikers up and down the steepest parts of the hike.
Directions to Abiqua Falls:
-Start at the small town Scotts Mills Oregon.
-Follow Crooked Finger Road approximately 11 miles. Paved road will end after about 10 miles.
-Turn right on an unmarked signs at an ORV staging area. Follow this gravel and stone road for 2 1/4 miles to a locked gate with a small parking area. You will likely need a high clearance vehicle for this section of the road.
-From the parking area( this term is used liberally as this is NOT formal parking area, it is simply a wide part of the road.
– From the parking area, walk back up the road for about 100 feet to the trail which travels down the slick muddy path for about 1/2 mile before reaching the Shangri-La, which is the Abiqua Falls Amphitheater.
8. South Falls Hike, Silver Falls State Park
Silver-Falls-State-Park fine art print, South Falls
Silver Falls State Park is one of the crown jewels of Oregon’s amazing State Parks system. The Trail of 10 Falls, located within Silver Falls allows hikers to enjoy, you guessed it… 10 different waterfalls!
The hike is stunning.
Hikers will pass behind, above or beside, the aforementioned South Falls, as well as Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Drake Falls, Double Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, North Falls, Upper North Falls, and Winter Falls. The Trail of 10 Falls is 7.2 miles long but a well structured and relatively easy hike.
I selected South Falls as one of my 10 best Waterfall Hikes in Oregon because of the Trail of 10 Falls but South Falls is a worthy singular destination if you are in the vicinity.
South Falls is located a short,flat hike from the parking area. The 1/4 mile hike to the falls passes the historic Silver Falls Lodge. Some but not all of the view points at South Falls are handicapped accessible.
Directions to Silver Falls State Park:
-From Bend, take highway 20 west through the town of Sisters for a total of 46 miles to the Santiam Y Junction where you will take a slight right ontoOR-22 West . Continue on OR-22 for 67 miles.
-Turn off Boedhiigheimer Rd. SE,
-Take a slight right towards Fern Ridge Road SE where you will take a left
-Turn right onto Boedighigheimer RD SE and continue for 5.7 miles
-Turn right onto OR-214 N for 7.2 miles and the entrance for Silver Falls State Park will be on the right. Follow signage for the South Falls Parking area.
9. Benham Falls Hike, Deschutes River Trail, Bend, Oregon
Fall color along the Deschutes River near Bend, Oregon
For the sake of immediate transparency, Benham Falls is is less of a waterfall and more of a really violent series of whitewater rapids. Bentham Makes the list because of the hikes which go both up and downstream from the “Falls”
Located on the Deschutes River Trail, 14 miles south of Bend. Oregon, the Benham Falls area is a hiker’s paradise. To clarify for out of town visitors, the “Deschutes River Trail” can mean several things. There is a Lower Deschutes River Trail in Northern Oregon where the Deschutes River dumps into the Columbia River,
There is a “River Trail” through the urban boundary of the city of Bend which is administered and managed by the Bend Parks and Rec Department and there is the Deschutes River Trail South Of Bend, in the ‘Deschutes national Forest, accessed from Century Drive.
There is a designated parking area for Benham Falls, which also has a bathroom. Multiple viewpoints share the beauty of this rugged section of the Deschutes River.
To be clear, the beauty of Benham Falls lies in the hike an the surrounding area and not in the waterfall itself. The “Falls” are interesting and noisy and beautiful but don’t offer the jaw dropping vertical plunges of many Oregon Waterfalls. Regardless, I stand by my decision to include it in my list of the top 10 waterfall hikes in Oregon.
For those of you who are visiting The Deschutes River Trail to Mt. Bike……don’t! You will find that there are a lot of hikers to frustrate you. There are lots of other biking trails in the area that you will enjoy more.
Directions to Benham Falls:
- From Bend, Take SW Century Drive south towards Mt. Bachelor for approximately 10 miles
- turn left at FS 41 for approximately 5 miles and follow signage to Benham Falls.
- This forest service road travels about 1 mile to an obvious parking area.
10. Tamanawas Falls Hike, Mt. Hood National Forest
Tamanawas Falls, Oregon.
Tamanawas Falls is accessed via the Sherwood Trailhead parking lot, located on OR Highway 35 on the eastern flanks of Oregon’s tallest mountain, Mt. Hood.
The Hike to Tamanawas Falls is 2.0 miles one way and gains 600 feet of elevation as it travels through attractive mountain forests. Currently, there is a detour through a large rock slide but it is passable.
Tamanawas Falls themselves are stunning. This basalt lipped waterfall takes a single 109 foot plunge over a deeply undercut cliff edge. Hikers can walk behind the falls to enjoy its spray.
Directions to Tamanawas Falls:
-From Bend, take highway 97 north for 102 miles
-turn right at OR 35 towards Hood River, Oregon for 15.6 miles
-turn right at the Sherwood Trail Parking area where the Tamanawas Falls Hike begins.
Honorable Mention
-Paulina Falls in the remarkable Newberry Crater National Scenic Monument. Paulina Falls is a twin drop,80 foot waterfall, located on Paulina Creek, the outflow of Paulina Lake. This pleasant waterfall is in a developed setting, a short stroll from a parking lot. Paulina Falls value is found in its location within Newberry Crater National Volcanic Monument which offers Obsidian flows, hiking, biking, fishing, a rustic lodge and epic views from the summit of Paulina Peak.
–Salt Creek Falls and Diamond Creek Falls, Willamette Pass area, Willamette National Forest, Near Oakridge, Oregon. Salt Creek Falls has a well developed parking area with restrooms and picnic tables. Salt Creek Falls is quite stunning and its more humble sibling, Diamond Creek Falls, can be enjoyed via a relatively short loop hike which tarts from the Salt Creek Falls Parking area.
–Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls, both located on the McKenzie River waterfall loop. Both of these beautiful waterfalls have easily accessible parking areas adjacent to them. The waterfall loop trail covers 2.6 miles and extends upstream to a footbridge not far below Clear Lake and downstream to Carmen Reservoir. In addition to waterfalls, the loop includes vibrant blue waters of the McKenzie, and an Old growth forest in the midst of a temperate rain forest.
-Elowah Falls, in the Columbia River Gorge. Located in John B. Yeon State Park, Elowah Falls requires a short hike through temperate rain forests before viewing this stunning 289 foot single drop waterfall as it plunges over a shear basalt face. Perhaps the hike through piercingly green forests and the amazing basalt amphitheater are just as impressive as this gorgeous waterfall.
Thanks for the info. Which of these would you recommend for early-mid July?
Hi Jennifer, All of these would be wonderful in July. It kind of depends where you are starting from and who your hiking group is composed of. From the Willamette Valley, I’d recommend the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park and if you are starting in Bend, I’d recommend Hiking the Tumalo Falls Hike, continue past Tumalo Falls for many more unnamed waterfall in the first Three Miles. Happy Hiking!
The South Falls at Silver Creek is stunning, but there are so many more incredible falls past there. Most don’t venture past the South Fall. I encourage anyone to give the full hike a go. Double Falls, just off the path, right before Drake Falls, is the most stunning you will ever see.
I did all ten falls today. It was amazing.
Toni,
thanks so much for the feedback, it is appreciated! I completely agree about there being other beautiful waterfalls beyond South Falls on the Trail of 10 Falls. They are all stunning! In fact, the hike would be beautiful without any of the waterfalls as it is a magical place. I’m glad you had a good day at one of my favorite places in Oregon.
Best,
Mike
Is the Oneonta falls open now? Is their any other waterfalls which you hike through the water similar to this one?