30 Best Waterfall Hikes in Oregon That You MUST Visit

Waterfalls are one of my favorite things to hike to, and living in the PNW has given me the chance to explore many of the beautiful ones in Oregon.

There’s just something about the rushing waters pouring over a cliff and the mossy green walls that line the pools of many of Oregon’s falls.

And don’t even get me started on walking behind a waterfall and feeling the cool mist on your face.

In this post, you’ll find 30 of the best waterfall hikes in Oregon that you have to check out for yourself!

Video On Oregon’s Waterfalls

Here’s a short video with a few of the waterfalls mentioned in this post to show you how truly epic they are! 😉

Best Waterfall Hikes in Northern Oregon

Northern Oregon is overflowing with beautiful waterfalls, all within a very short distance of each other.

The Columbia River Gorge runs along the Oregon-Washington border and has over 90 waterfalls, making it the best place to find waterfalls near Portland, OR.

Starting in May 2022, permits will be required to enter the Waterfall Corridor of the Columbia River Gorge. You can find the permits here.

Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 75 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: None

The trail to Bridal Veil Falls is one of the easier hikes in the Columbia River Gorge but still provides you with views of an epic waterfall.

The two-tiered waterfall is impressive, dropping 120 feet, and has very strong water flow almost all year long.

The hike to the viewing platform is partially paved, before turning into a short but steep descent to the falls.

You’ll know you’re close when you see a bridge crossing Bridal Veil Creek. You’ll also be able to hear the falls roaring down the hillside.

Distance: 3.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 600 feet
Location: Mount Hood National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Tamanawas Falls is one of my all-time favorite waterfalls in the entire state of Oregon.

It’s found on the east side of Mount Hood, making for an absolutely incredible drive to the trailhead.

You’ll hike along Cold Spring Creek, cross some cute bridges, and have beautiful views for the entire trip.

Once you reach the falls, you’ll truly be blown away by the beauty, every time of year. I think I loved it even more in the winter!

In the summer, you can walk up behind the falls, but you’ll need to climb some boulders, so wear sturdy shoes.

Distance: 1.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 230 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

One of the best parts of hiking in the Columbia River Gorge is the bright green moss that lines the walls surrounding the waterfalls.

Wahclella Falls is no exception to this, and you’ll love to see how beautiful this waterfall is for the minimal work required.

It has 2 tiers, but the top half of the falls is pretty hidden behind the large, moss-covered boulders.

The beautiful teal water pours down into a large amphitheater.

I think that it’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Gorge, and is a lot less busy than some of the others.

Distance: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Permits required seasonally

If you’ve ever done any research about waterfall hikes in the PNW, you’ve definitely seen Multnomah Falls.

Dropping an incredible 620 feet, this is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the tallest in the Pacific Northwest.

Multnomah Falls is no secret and is one of the most visited attractions in the state.

It is an impressive waterfall and you should absolutely see it, but it does get very busy, so plan to visit early or on a weekday.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to visit when the weather is cold and the waterfall is slightly frozen. This is a real treat as it doesn’t freeze often!

You can actually see the waterfall from the road, and the best viewpoint is only a short walk from the parking lot.

You can also cross the Benson Bridge which is about 1/2 mile further down the trail.

Because of the popularity of the waterfall, permits will be required between mid-May and mid-September. You can grab a permit here.

Distance: 4.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Punchbowl Falls is a popular waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge that is a popular swimming spot in the summer.

The waterfall is found on the Eagle Creek Trail and you’ll pass 3 other waterfalls on your way.

For the entirety of the hike, you’ll walk through the beautiful green scenery, but you’ll also see some of the burn scars from the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire.

This hike definitely is not for those scared of heights, as you’ll be walking along a narrow, rocky path at some points.

To get to the popular lower viewpoint, you’ll need to branch off on the Lower Punchbowl Falls (there are signs!).

But, be aware that the viewpoint isn’t easy to access, and you’ll need to wade through water to reach it.

Those who prefer to stay on dry ground can view Punchbowl Falls from an upper viewpoint, right on the Eagle Creek trail.

Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Location: Silver Falls State Park
Pass Required: Oregon State Park Pass

One of the top waterfall hikes in Oregon is found in Silver Falls State Park and is known as the Trail of Ten Falls.

If you’re up for it, you can complete the 8-mile loop trail that showcases the parks’, you guessed it, 10 waterfalls.

If you don’t have as much time or energy, be sure to stop and see North Falls, which is just a short 1/2 mile hike (but there are a fair amount of stairs).

This is my favorite fall in the park, as it feels pretty magical.

You’re able to walk behind it and explore the deep cave behind the impressive 136-foot waterfall.

Waterfall hikes make the perfect activity on a rainy day, so remember Silver Falls State Park during the rain!

Add on the easy 0.6-mile hike to Upper North Falls if you’re craving a little extra during your visit to Silver Falls State Park.

The parking lot closest to North Falls is fairly small, so plan ahead to ensure you can snag a spot!

Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 730 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: None

Latourell Falls is my personal favorite easy-to-access falls in the Gorge and is one of the best waterfalls near Portland, OR.

It’s so impressive to me because of its unique features on the rocks where the water tumbles down into the river below.

It sort of looks like cubes coming out of the rock wall. It’s so cool!

To reach the base of Latourell Falls, it’s hardly a hike from the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway. It’s only about 1/4 mile.

But you can add on about 2.5-miles to loop around and get a new perspective of the waterfall from above, near Upper Latourell Falls.

While this does add extra time, it’s worth it if you’re able, because you’ll get to also see great views of the Columbia River from above.

Distance: 12 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

The hike to Tunnel Falls is the longest on this list of Oregon waterfall hikes, but it’s worth it because of all that you get to experience.

Following the Eagle Creek Trail, you’ll pass nearly 10 other waterfalls including Punchbowl and Metlako Falls.

The views are unmatched as you pass through the green, mossy forest, right along Eagle Creek.

Once you reach Tunnel Falls, you’ll have the unique experience of walking through an enclosed tunnel that leads right behind the waterfall.

While the hike itself is fairly easy and has only slight inclines, several portions of the trail are narrow and are along very steep cliffs and have handrails to help you out.

I would say that this is one of the best day hikes around the Portland area and in northern Oregon.

Or, you could add it to your Oregon road trip must-do list!

Twister Falls is another fantastic waterfall that is only about 1/4-mile further up the trail from Tunnel Falls.

Plus, there’s a great spot to stop for lunch just past Twister Falls! Win-win!

Distance: 4.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

The hike to Dry Creek Falls is longer than others in the Columbia River Gorge, but the beautiful waterfall makes up for the distance.

It’s an uneventful hike through the forest before you reach the falls. Sadly, you’ll see the damage caused by the 2017 fire throughout your journey.

This waterfall is tucked away in a large amphitheater where the water drops about 75 feet into Dry Creek.

One thing that I loved about this waterfall is that when I visited in March, there were hardly any other people there, compared to other nearby falls.

It’s always fun to get up close and personal with a waterfall without having to worry about being in others’ way!

Distance: 0.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 250 feet
Location: Scotts Mill, OR
Pass Required: None

If you’re planning to visit Silver Falls State Park, consider adding Abiqua Falls to your hiking list.

But, be sure that you’re prepared for a rough drive and hike. It’s recommended to have 4×4 and high clearance for the road to the trailhead.

Although it’s rough due to rocks and fallen trees, it’s definitely worth the effort that you’ll put in.

Abiqua Falls drops 92 feet into a large pool after falling over the mossy, rocky basalt cliffs.

It’s less visited than Silver Falls State Park, so if you’re in the area, but want fewer crowds, give this waterfall a visit!

Distance: 3.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 640 feet
Location: Silver Falls State Park
Pass Required: Oregon State Park Pass

Here’s another amazing portion of the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park that features 5-6 waterfalls.

There are 2 ways that you can see Middle North Falls.

The first is starting at the Winter Falls Trailhead and then taking a left at the fork in the trail, after about 1/2 mile of hiking.

With this route, you’ll be able to see 5 waterfalls, and it can even be done in the winter months which is great.

The other way is to begin at the North Falls Trailhead and follow the trail until you reach Middle North Falls.

If you choose this route, you’ll add one extra and get to see 6 of the 10 falls in the park.

I love this trail because it’s such a great bang for your buck, and you’ll get to see so many beautiful views, my favorite being Middle North Falls, which you can walk behind.

Distance: 0.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 330 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: None

Another epic hike in the Gorge that has one of the coolest trailheads in the state, is to Ponytail Falls.

Right at the trailhead, you’ll get to see the magnificent Horsetail Falls, a 176-foot drop right into a pool near the road.

While the hike is rated as easy, there is some elevation gain on this trail, and it starts off uphill.

Ponytail Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the Gorge that you can walk behind.

It’s an interesting waterfall because it drops outwards into the river instead of straight down, perhaps where it gets the name, Ponytail Falls.

Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 60 feet
Location: Munson Creek Falls State Recreation Area
Pass Required: Oregon State Park Pass

Not many waterfalls are found near Oregon’s coast, but Munson Creek Falls is a huge fall near Tillamook.

The viewpoint allows a good view of this 319-foot waterfall, although the trail to the base of the falls is no longer accessible.

Even beginner hikers will enjoy this hike, as it’s very short and flat.

While you’re in the area, visit Cape Kiwanda, just about 30 minutes southwest of Munson Creek Falls. It’s my favorite place on the coast!

Distance: 0.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Location: Tillamook State Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Found in the Tillamook State Forest, just a short one-hour drive from Portland is University Falls.

This non-crowded waterfall is tucked back in the woods, hidden by trees draped in moss and tall, lush foliage.

Hike a short 1/4 mile through a classic Oregon forest scene, mossy trees, and gigantic ferns to reach the falls.

The falls just drop over a huge, rocky cliff before plunging into a pool and continuing to make its way down the river.

I was surprised that this waterfall isn’t more popular, because it is pretty impressive for its location!

But let’s keep it that way, and allow visitors to enjoy it without tons of crowds, shall we?!

Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 0 feet
Location: Hug Point State Recreation Site
Pass Required: Oregon State Parks Pass

Looking for the most unique waterfall in pretty much all of the Pacific Northwest and beyond?

Well, then a visit to Hug Point Falls on the coast of the Pacific Ocean will certainly exceed your expectations.

This adorable waterfall is found literally right on the coast of Oregon, dropping over a sandstone cliff and flowing into the ocean.

There are small caves nearby to explore and enough coastline to walk to satisfy every ocean-loving heart.

If you visit, you’ll want to make sure that it’s low tide because you will need to walk right on the shoreline, and it can be deep if it’s high tide.

Also, please respect this area. It’s a hidden gem and it should be treated as such.

Distance: 0.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Location: White River State Park
Pass Required: Oregon State Parks Pass

This waterfall drops over a rocky basalt cliff in what seems to be the middle of the desert.

It’s always strange to see waterfalls in the desert because they feel very out of place, and that’s exactly how this one is!

Surrounded by tall, rocky cliffs, White River Falls drops 90 feet into the White River.

And being just a few hours from Portland, you’ll be able to make this a nice day trip on one of your days off!

Looking for the BEST Hikes in the PNW?
I’ve Got You! 👇🏼

Show Me The Hikes!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime.

Built with ConvertKit

Best Waterfalls in Central Oregon

While a huge concentration of Oregon’s waterfalls are found in the northern half of the state, there are still some epic falls in Central Oregon.

In fact, some of the tallest falls in the state are found here including Salt Creek Falls and Watson Falls.

Important: In the winter, many of the roads to trailheads might be closed or unplowed. Do research ahead of time to avoid being disappointed.

Distance: 6.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 600 feet
Location: Bend, OR
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Tumalo Falls is a very popular waterfall near Bend, OR, that’s only about 15 miles from town.

This waterfall looks different than a lot of the ones in Northern Oregon because of the trees and rocks that surround the falls.

The best viewpoint is found right near the parking lot, so the 6.5-mile hike is definitely optional.

Tumalo Falls is wheelchair accessible, as the main viewpoint is close to the parking lot and is paved.

You can also walk about 1/4 mile up the trail and get a view from above the waterfall.

If you choose to do the longer hike, you’ll also pass Bridge Creek Falls and Double Falls.

I just visited Tumalo Falls recently (April 2022), and the road was still closed, meaning I had to add an extra 2.5-miles to my visit. (But it’s an easy walk!)

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Location: Terrebonne, OR
Pass Required: None

Found not too far from Smith Rock State Park, one of the coolest places for hiking in central Oregon, you’ll find Steelhead Falls.

This smaller, but still beautiful waterfall is surrounded by tall canyon walls.

It almost feels like a small Grand Canyon in the desert region of Oregon.

As you make the drive to the waterfall, it almost seems like you’re in the wrong place, as it feels too dry to have a river flowing through.

The hike is fairly easy, on a dirt path, but do be cautious, as loose sand can cause slipping.

There also is very limited shade on this hike, so if you’re visiting in the summer, pack extra water and sun protection.

Distance: 6.9 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Location: Strawberry Mountain Wilderness
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

The hike to Strawberry Falls is a magical experience in itself because you’ll be surrounded by beautiful mountains the entire time.

On this hike, you’ll not only see the waterfall but also two lakes situated right in the mountains.

The 50-foot Strawberry Falls falls down a rocky cliff.

While it isn’t the main feature of this hike, it’s definitely worth visiting because of everything else that you get to see on the trail.

One downfall of this hike is that it is typically closed in the winter due to weather conditions and snow in the area.

Distance: 2.9 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 360 feet
Location: Willamette National Forest
Pass Required: None

This waterfall duo is a pretty iconic addition to the list of best waterfall hikes in central Oregon.

I personally think that they’re some of the best waterfalls to add to your hiking bucket list.

You can choose to start at either the Sahalie or Koosah Falls parking lot and connect the two.

You’ll follow the McKenzie River for the entire hike, and walk about 1/2 mile from one waterfall to the next.

Even the hike itself is impressive as the McKenzie River roars next to you.

Sahalie Falls is the larger and stronger of the two and drops about 100 feet back into the river.

Just up the trail, Koosah Falls is still, if not more, impressive. I enjoyed it more because it’s less busy than Sahalie.

You can either continue on the trail and cross the river or just visit the falls and return to the parking lot.

Distance: 0.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 170 feet
Location: Umpqua National Forest
Pass Required: None

One of the most popular Oregon waterfalls is Toketee Falls and for great reason!

It’s found in Umpqua National Forest, just down the road from the famous Umpqua Hot Springs.

The hike is short but is filled with lots of ups and downs, including many stairs, before reaching the viewing platform.

Below, you’ll see the teal, two-tiered, 113-foot Toketee Falls plunging into the beautifully colored pool.

The rock formations surrounding the pool and water flow make for one of the most gorgeous falls that you’ll see.

Since this is such a popular spot, you should arrive early or plan to visit during the week for the best chances of seeing the falls without crowds.

There is also a way to get down to the bottom and take in the views right next to the pool that the falls flow into.

But- it is extremely steep and rocky (and sometimes slippery). Meaning it can be dangerous.

Wear sturdy shoes and only attempt if you are prepared to make the climb back up.

Distance: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Location: Newberry Volcanic National Monument
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Starting near the Paulina Visitor Center, hike only about 1/4 mile and you’ll reach Paulina Falls.

The waterfall is 60 feet tall and is split into multiple sections.

Definitely don’t expect much water flow from this one though, because it isn’t a super powerful waterfall!

It’s especially beautiful when covered in snow and ice because it gives the waterfall a magical, snowy look.

But, in the winter, you’ll need to add an extra 5-miles roundtrip, as the road isn’t plowed.

Nearby, you’ll also find Paulina Hot Springs and other great hikes within Newberry Volcanic Monument.

Paulina Creek Falls is only about an hour from Bend, OR, making for the perfect day trip.

While you’re in the area, head over to Paulina Peak and check out how beautiful the highest peak in the area is at sunrise!

Distance: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 540 feet
Location: Siuslaw National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

The Drift Creek Falls hike is popular because of its unique suspension bridge feature, right next to the waterfall itself.

The bridge is 240-feet long, the longest in Oregon!

For those scared of heights, you can view the falls from the other side of the bridge, if you’d prefer not to cross it.

The actual waterfall is 66-feet tall and shoots out into Drift Creek over the rocky cliffs.

The only problem with this hike is that you’ll have to complete the heavy elevation change on the way back to the parking lot.

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 220 feet
Location: Willamette National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

For an easy, tall, and impressive waterfall, head to Salt Creek Falls in the Willamette National Forest.

Salt Creek Falls cascades 286 feet into Salt Creek and comes in as Oregon’s second-tallest single-drop waterfall.

An easy 1-mile hike will give you two fantastic viewpoints.

If you start at the parking lot, you can get views from above the falls, before hiking down many stairs to see the straight-on view.

When you’re standing in front of it, Salt Creek Falls almost feels fake because of how tall it really is!

I visited during the off-season and ended up having to walk through tons of snow, so be sure to prepare for this or visit in the summer.

Distance: 1.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Location: Willamette National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Although shorter and different than others on this list, Proxy Falls is still a beautiful waterfall that makes it feel like you’re in a magical land.

Instead of dropping off of a cliff, this waterfall cascades down a green wall of moss and foliage.

The short 1.6 mile loop trail will bring you past a viewpoint of both upper and lower Proxy Falls.

You’ll pass through lava rock fields and see more of the beauty of Willamette National Forest and Three Sisters Wilderness.

Distance: 3.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Location: Siuslaw National Forest
Pass Required: None

The hike to Kentucky Falls will lead you to not one, not two, but THREE waterfalls in Siuslaw National Forest.

It’s short for what you get, and it’s worth the visit if you’re looking for a great waterfall.

It’s also great if you’re looking to get away from some of the crowds at other falls, as this one isn’t as busy.

There’s even a small swimming hole just past the last waterfall that you can cool off in if you choose!

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Location: Umpqua National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Found just minutes from Toketee Falls, Watson Falls makes for the perfect addition to your Umpqua National Forest visit.

At 293-feet tall, Watson Falls is the 3rd tallest in Oregon.

There are 2 main views of the falls. One at the bridge before making the steep climb, and another next to the falls at a higher spot.

It’s a nice short hike to view this massive waterfall, but it’s pretty uphill, and you’ll definitely be out of breath.

In the winter, the steep ascent can get icy, so be careful when attempting this hike.

Distance: 0.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 70 feet
Location: Umpqua National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

This easy hike is a great year-round option for a waterfall hike in Central Oregon.

Warm Springs Falls has a 60-foot drop and has a beautiful flow of water almost all the time.

It’s similar to Toketee Falls in the way that it drops over a rocky cliff and is surrounded by lush green trees.

The hike itself is very easy and straightforward, making it a great addition to anyone’s waterfall bucket list.

In the spring, wildflowers bloom near Warm Springs Falls, so this is a great time to plan your visit!

Waterfalls in Southern Oregon

Even southern Oregon has epic waterfall hikes that are worth visiting!

While there aren’t as many to explore, there are still a few great ones worth mentioning.

Distance: 1.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 165 feet
Location: Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint
Pass Required: None

Another beautiful waterfall where you get a ‘bonus’ falls on the way! (My favorites!)

Barr Creek and Mill Creek Falls are just minutes from each other on the Rogue River.

Mill Creek Falls comes in at 173-feet tall.

It’s completely surrounded by green trees and tall cliffsides, making for a dramatic and beautiful waterfall hike in Southern Oregon.

Barr Creek Falls is just a bit further down the trail, and is about 240-feet tall, falling from Barr Creek into Rogue River.

This waterfall is only about 45 minutes from Crater Lake National Park, so it’s the perfect addition to your visit!

Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Location: Susan Creek Recreation Area
Pass Required: None

Another falls found in southern Oregon is Susan Creek Falls.

This short and flat hike is easy and perfect for almost all hikers.

This simple waterfall is surrounded by lush foliage and rolls down a rock wall before plunging into a pool.

It’s shorter than most others on this list, but is worth the stop if you’re in the area!

Map of Oregon Waterfalls

FAQs: Oregon Waterfall Hikes

Tips for Hiking in Oregon

Now that you’ve got your list prepared for waterfalls to visit all around Oregon, it’s important to remember a few tips for your visit.

Here are my top tips:

Conclusion: Best Waterfall Hikes in Oregon

With so many beautiful waterfalls and natural places to visit in the state of Oregon, it can be hard to choose which to visit first.

From the Columbia River Gorge to the coast to the desert, they are spread out everywhere, even where you don’t expect them.

This list of the best waterfall hikes in Oregon will show you which are the best and worth visiting, and which are best suited for both beginner and advanced hikers.