Home to an embarrassment of waterfalls, Oregon is a welcome escape for nature lovers and hikers. This post highlights a few of the most beautiful waterfalls you can visit in Oregon, and offers tips and insight to make the most of your time at each.
1. Multnomah Falls – Oregon’s Iconic Waterfall
No 1 waterfall in the State of Oregon is the Multnomah Falls! The waterfall is 620 feet (189 m) in height, the highest waterfall in the state. A two-tiered waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls showcases amazing scenery throughout the year.
How to Get There
Multnomah Falls — a quick 30-minute drive from Portland, and you too could be here! A quick 5-10 minute paved trail will take you to the Benson Bridge, where you receive an up-close view of the falls. Check out Travel Portland for more details on exploring the area. If you’re flying in to see Oregon’s waterfalls, ensure a comfortable trip by checking out the best travel pillow for long flights to make your journey more pleasant.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to see it is in spring and early summer when the water flow is highest.
Travel Tip
Get there early, even on weekends to try and avoid the crowds and get parking.
2. Silver Falls State Park – Home to 10 Majestic Waterfalls
Silver Falls State Park offers hikers the best of both worlds: a new world lush with historical trees and blossoms, movie-friendly trails moseyed by mild-mannered turtles and elegant streams, and topless waterfalls to remind us Jersey folk we can hardly shed layers during summer. The most famous, South Falls, is 177-feet high and stunning.
The Trail of Ten Falls
This 7.2 mile loop trail with ten different waterfalls. The trail is considered easy to moderate and should be fine for most hikers.
Best Time to Visit
Silver Falls is beautiful all year but the fall colors make it stand out in its splendor.
3. Toketee Falls – A Hidden Gem in Southern Oregon
Toketee Falls is one of Oregon’s most picturesque waterfalls is Toketee Falls in Umpqua National Forest. The 113-foot, two-stage waterfall cascades and is encased by awesome basalt columns.
How to Get There
A small 5 mile-long hike will take you to the viewing platform. The trail is easy, and most visitors can use it.
Best Time to Visit
Given the clear blue skies and fair temperatures, summer is the best time to venture up to Toketee Falls.
Interesting Fact
In the Chinook language, the word “Toketee” translates as graceful, which is an appropriate description for this beautiful waterfall.
4. Punchbowl Falls – Perfect for Photography and Swimming
Jeredc(found here)Punchbowl Falls, a popular spot for photographers and swimmers, is found along the Eagle Creek Trail. The serene and sublime bowl-shaped pool at the base of the waterfall.
How to Hike There
Punchbowl Falls is a 4-mile round trip of the Eagle Creek Trail. Best for a day trek (Short Duration Hike).
Best Time to Visit
Go before and after March to see the waterfall at its peak with foliage in full bloom.
Tip for Swimmers
In the summer, swim in the pool where Punchbowl Falls drops. It is good to relax and cool down the body after the hike.
5. Proxy Falls – A Must-See in the Three Sisters Wilderness
Proxy Falls is celebrated for its flowing amorphous moss-covered rocks. It is also a favorite destination for photographers and nature lovers, with all its unique beauty.
How to Hike to Proxy Falls
There’s also an easy 1.6-mile loop trail to Proxy Falls, winding through lava fields and ancient forests.
Best Time to Visit
Fall or early spring is the best time to view the falls and hike the reach.
Essential Gear for Oregon Waterfall Adventures
The right gear is essential for hiking to Oregon’s waterfalls. If you’re going to be hiking in the mountains, we recommend packing some waterproof hiking boots as well.
Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot
Off-trail, in the mountains of Oregon, chasing waterfalls, grab your Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot. They grip well on techy terrain, are waterproof, and can keep your foot alive for mile after mile of hiking. These boots are ideal for your waterfall trips here is why:
About this item
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features our lightweight, durable midsole for long lasting comfort, superior cushioning, and high energy return as well as an advanced traction rubber sole for slip-free movement on rough ground.
- HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this boot’s waterproof full-grain leather and mesh bootie construction and its durable mesh tongue for breathability.
- ADJUSTABLE FEATURES: The Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot features a lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit.
- VERSATILE STYLE: This men’s waterproof hiking boot delivers style and durability with its contrasting color combinations and soft mesh exterior.
- OMNI-GRIP: This multi-terrain traction system matches specially formulated compounds and treads to specific environments. A dual-zone winter tread pattern ensures solid footing on surfaces such as ice and snow.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit
Go Early: Popular waterfalls like Multnomah Falls can get crowded and the parking lot may fill up.
Wear the Right Gear: Good hiking boots to protect you from slipping هazards.
Pack the Basics: Water, Snacks, and a Camera for taking amazing photos of Oregon!
Check the Trail: Always be sure to check the opening and closing of the trail.
Safety First: Be careful out there, Waterfall trails are slippery. Staying on trails and not to close the edge.
Always check the official Oregon State Parks website to confirm trail openings and closures before planning your waterfall hikes.
When is the Best Time to go to Oregon Waterfalls?
It’s best in the spring and early summer when waterfalls are roaring.
Are Oregon waterfalls accessible to everyone?
Not all waterfalls are reached by whacky clifftop trail. Multnomah Falls is one that has accessible paths. Check always parks websites for more details.
Can you swim in Oregon waterfalls?
We know you can swim in waterfalls like Punchbowl Falls. Observe All Posted Signs for Safety.
Conclusion
Now, Oregon’s waterfalls are a little treat of nature with the perfect balance between adventure and serenity. There are towering falls (hello, Multnomah Falls), hidden gems (hey there, Toketee Falls), and everything in between. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just someone who loves to see the esthetics of Oregon — these waterfalls are worth adding to our travel itinerary. So, put on your hiking boots, wear your essentials, and explore the grandeur of nature. “If you enjoy scenic nature spots like Oregon’s waterfalls, you’ll also love the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, a haven for wildlife photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
