Ten of the Most Impressive Waterfalls in Oregon that Aren’t Multnomah Falls (and 5 More You’ve Probably Never Heard of).

Oregon is best known for its epic landscapes and wealth of natural wonders. It is the second state in the United States (outside of Washington) to have the most named waterfalls, with more than 200 surveyed and named. While it is most famous for the state’s historic landmark Multnomah Falls, there are many others that are just as equally impressive, but usually without the crowds. As a waterfall lover myself, I’ve had the pleasure of hunting down the best ones in the state and have compiled a few of my favorites for you in this blog.

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1. Proxy Falls

Nestled in the Willamette National Forest in the McKenzie Pass area off Highway 242 lays Proxy Falls. A favorite amongst waterfall lovers for its dramatic cascade, it is a short 1.6 mile loop with 147 ft of elevation gain through dense forest and lava rock fields, to view the upper and lower falls. To reach the lower portion of the falls, there is a bit of self- exploration down a steep terrain, navigating over fallen logs and other debris, so extra caution should be taken if you choose to explore this section as it is off the maintained trail. Highway 242 is closed during the end of fall through spring, so access to this waterfall is limited during those months.

• Pro Tip: Nearby attractions include the Tamolitch Blue Pool, Sahalie Falls and this next waterfall (see below).

2. Koosah Falls

Koosah Falls is the next waterfall on our list, which is accessible off the Santiam Pass, Highway 126. Natural features include the bright turquoise water of the McKenzie River and moss-covered canyon that it sits in. Koosah Falls has its own parking area, however the trail connects to the nearby Sahalie Falls, which is a 2.9 mile roundtrip hike. The full loop is highly recommended, as it is a gorgeous hike along the riverside.

• Pro Tip: Sahalie Falls is typically more crowded, so if that lot is full and you plan to do the whole loop, head over to Koosah Falls parking lot, as you might have an easier time finding a spot.

3. Ramona Falls

The next waterfall is located in the Mount Hood National Forest in Rhododendron Oregon. The overall hike is a moderately difficult 8.1 mile loop, with 1,112 ft of elevation gain. One of the more challenging aspects of this hike is the crossing of the Sandy River, which can be somewhat treacherous as there is no bridge. Hikers will need to find their own way across, usually scooting across fallen tree trunks to get to the other side, which can be more dangerous when water levels are high. Once at the waterfall, you can take in the views from the wooden foot bridge.

• Pro Tip: This waterfall is a favorite amongst photographers, as the waterfall is surrounded in shade from the trees overhead, preventing harsh sunlight from shining on the falls. If you are lucky, you might just see a rainbow peeking through like I did in this photograph.

4. Abiqua Falls

For those that have visited this waterfall, then you know it is more of an adventure than a hike. Located in Scotts Mills Oregon, Abiqua falls is probably the most difficult waterfall to get to, as it requires driving down a VERY difficult road, only accessible if you have a high clearance vehicle. Most people park at the top of the road and walk down, because it is washed out with deep ruts and potholes, which most definitely will destroy your car if not careful. Once you get to the actual trailhead, the real fun begins. Along your way you will encounter a series of ropes tied to trees to help you traverse the steep descent into a ravine towards the river. This is moderately difficult and could be considered fairly strenuous to some. Once you reach the river, you will turn to your left and head towards the sound of rushing water, only to end in a jaw dropping view of the basalt amphitheater, which feels like a hidden oasis. The overall trail is 0.7 miles out and back (not including if you hiked down the road).

• Pro Tips: There is no cell phone reception in this area, so highly recommend downloading the trail map on All Trails before your visit, as it is very difficult to navigate if you don’t know your way. You definitely don’t want to get lost out there, given the great lengths you will take to get here. Also, bring gloves to protect your hands for the ropes section.

5. Toketee Falls

Toketee Falls is located in the Umpqua National Forest, located near the Rogue River Area. It is a short 0.9 miles round trip hike to the viewing platform above. Toketee Falls is best known for its stunning columnar basalt amphitheater, from which the 113 foot falls plunge into a vibrant aqua pool below.

• Pro Tips: Couple this waterfall with nearby attractions such as the Umpqua Hot Springs, Watson Falls, National Creek Falls and Crater Lake. Because this is a very remote area, it is highly recommended to stay in the area if you are wanting to do a lot of exploring to minimize your driving distances. My favorite stay is the nearby Union Creek Resort which consists of super cute little cabins, central to all the nearby spots listed above!

6. Silver Falls State Park, Trail of Ten Falls

The next location is actually a collection of waterfalls, located in Silverton Oregon, at the Silver Falls State Park. There are many different trails to adventure on in this park, but the “crown jewel” is the Trail of Ten Falls, which as the name suggests, takes you on a 7.4 mile journey past ten stunning waterfalls. One of the coolest features about the park is that most of the waterfalls have caves behind them, which allow you to venture behind the waterfall for a cool experience. Located in the park there is also a gift shop, lodge and snack shop, and a day pass parking permit can be purchased onsite for $5.00. If you don’t want to do the full loop, there is a “short loop” which begins at South Falls and returns at the Winter Falls Trailhead. The shorter trail is 5.6 miles. There’s no cell phone reception here, so downloading a trail map beforehand is advised.

• Pro Tip: My personal favorite of the falls on this trail is the Middle North Falls (which in my opinion is the most beautiful and impressive of the ten), shown above. Because this waterfall is towards the middle of the loop, there are much less people, as the majority stick around the waterfalls near the main parking areas and don’t venture much further out.

7. Salt Creek Falls

Salt Creek Falls the third highest waterfall in Oregon, with a plunge of 286 ft (behind Multnomah and Watson Falls). It is located in the Willamette National Forest, near Oakridge. It is a short 1 mile roundtrip hike down the boardwalk to the viewing platform.

• Pro Tip: There is a nearby waterfall called Diamond Creek Falls, which is just as impressive as this one, and can be coupled into a 5.4 mile loop with Salt Creek Falls. This other waterfall is much less known and usually you will have it all to yourself!

8. Hug Point Beach Waterfall

This next waterfall is rather unique, as it is the only one on this list that is located on a beach. This seasonal waterfall is located at the Hug Point Beach and when flowing runs down the hillside straight into the ocean. Directly located to its left is a cool sea cave that you can go into and explore. This waterfall is a lower flow waterfall, so it typically runs dry most of the year, especially into the hotter months of summer and autumn. Also, this beach is only accessible at low tide, otherwise it can be dangerous to access.

• Pro Tips: Once you park at the beach, you will head all the way to your right until you dead end at a cliffside. At low tide you will “hug” the rocks and cross around to the other side where the waterfall is located, hence the name Hug Point. It is very important to be mindful of the tides, as people have gotten stuck over there and there is no other exit point. If tides are very low, sometimes there are additional sea caves accessible if you continue further past the waterfall. Again, adventure at your own risk.

9. Tunnel Falls

Tunnel Falls is probably the longest hike on this list, capping at about 12 miles round trip with 2,070 ft of elevation gain. Located on the Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge, this hike is best left for the most serious adventurers as it can be really dangerous if not careful. Due to the Eagle Creek fire in 2017, this trail was rehabilitated from a burn zone, so there is a high risk of falling rocks, debris and mudslides. This hike is not for those with a fear of heights, as the majority of the hike is alongside exposed steep cliffsides with no railing to prevent falling. Some of the more narrower sections do have a chain on the side to hold onto. If you make it all the way to Tunnel Falls you will be rewarded with the opportunity to walk through a tunnel behind the waterfall to the other side, which is a really neat experience.

• Pro Tips: Although you might see families and people with pets on the trail, it is really not the best trail for young children and pups due to the exposed cliffs and narrow trail width. If you are wanting to experience the Eagle Creek Trail but don’t want to do a long hike, Punchbowl Falls is a shorter alternative from the same trailhead.

White River Falls

White River Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfalls on this list, but one of the most special due to its location. Maupin Oregon is kind of in the middle of nowhere, and if you didn’t know this waterfall existed you probably would have driven right past it. The surrounding scenery is reminiscent of a high desert climate, and once you arrive at the parking area, will descend into a steep gorge to view this stunning waterfall. During months of high flow, you can see three distinct tiers echoing through the canyon.

• Pro Tip: Due to it being in a remote location, this waterfall is recommended to be visited if you are heading towards Bend OR. It is also in close proximity to Mount Hood National Forest.

Bonus Waterfalls: Add these Little-Known Gems to Your Bucket List Now!

• Beaver Falls, Clatskanie OR.
• Downing Creek Falls, Blue River OR.
• Marion and Gatch Falls, Mount Jefferson Wilderness.
• Royal Terrace Falls, Lebanon OR.
• Gorton Creek Falls, Columbia River Gorge.

Disclaimer:

While I encourage you to explore the places listed above, some of these waterfalls and viewpoints are not on maintained trails, so extra caution must be observed for your personal safety. Know your capabilities and limitations, and always prepare adequately for your trip including wearing proper attire/shoes, bringing water and snacks, and telling someone where you are heading. Because some of the locations are remote and there is no cell phone access, always have a downloaded trail map in case you get lost!

Happy Wandering!