waterfalls in Oregon waterfalls in Oregon

11 Best Waterfalls in Oregon to Enjoy Nature

Oregon has the most waterfalls of any state in the United States, which is quite interesting. The Columbia River Gorge in Northern Oregon has 90 waterfalls and has been named one of Oregon’s seven wonders!

Here you will get a sneak peek to the best waterfalls in Oregon whenever you plan to visit Oregon.

Waterfalls in Oregon Southern Region

This travel guide includes photos and information on the best road trip route to Southern Oregon waterfalls.

waterfalls in oregon
Photo by Cristofer Maximilian/Unsplash. Copyright 2022

1. Multnomah Falls

Now the best thing about Multnomah falls is the bridge that beautifully separates the falls, an offers the eye-catching view.

The only drawback it attracts loads of crowds. It is challenging to get the glimpses during such restrictions.

Oregon Multnomah Falls, Oregon, USA. Waterfalls Photo Collection
Photo by welcomia from Depositphotos

Moreover, this is among the Oregon’s best waterfalls would be an outrage. And is among the Oregon’s 7 wonders.

This is one of the well-known waterfalls with the most recognizable natural attractions.
It allows visitors to appreciate Multnomah Falls from above and below.

2. Watson Falls

Watson Falls offers the 300 feet and is the tallest waterfall in Southern Oregon. But is half the state size.

This waterfall makes photographing difficult. And your photos with creek will cherish your getaway to beautiful memories.

Watson Falls Trail, Umpqua National Forest, Oregon, USA
Photo by carriecolephotography@gmail.com from Depositphotos

The Watson Falls and Creek flow can vary seasonally. You’ll get the best photographs during spring and capture scenic beauty of fresh blooms. And you will notice the creek is filled with rain and snowmelt. How beautiful!

The falls are only at half-mile hike. And the parking area and trailhead offers picnic tables and restrooms for the visitors ideal for a picnic lunch, you say! And the Toketee Falls is an marvelous sight to govern.

3. Lower South Falls

South falls day use area is the quickest route to Lower South Falls. Walk for 0.9 miles to reach Lower part of South Falls. It offers a marvelous cascade in just one of the stunning waterfalls along Silver Falls State Park’s Trail. You will believe this as the beautiful bunch of all.

waterfalls in oregon
Photo by Kamala Bright/Unsplash. Copyright 2022

If possible, plan your visit to coincide with the spectacular autumn foliage. The peak season varies from year to year, but it is usually near the end of October.

4. Ramona Falls

Ramona Falls is in heart of Northern Oregon and you reach at a 7-8 mile roundtrip hike. But the journey is worthwhile.

Ramona falls
Photo by kamchatka from Depositphotos

It is a landscape photographers paradise because of beauty and diversified complexities and features.

5. Munson Creek Falls

This is one of the biggest and most prominent waterfalls in Oregon. The Oregon waterfall area offers a variety of hiking opportunities for the whole family.

Munson Creek Falls | An Easy Hike Near Tillamook, Oregon

Massive western red cedars and Sitka spruces line the trail and define much of the landscape, adding to the grandeur of the falls.

6. Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a family-friendly waterfall on the Historic Columbia River Highway near Multnomah and Latourell Falls. The total distance traveled by both trails is less than two miles.

Bridal veil falls, Oregon
Photo by appalachianview from Depositphotos

At the base of the falls, there is a small viewing platform as well as a large rock feature that is a popular photo location.

7. Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls, one of the major waterfalls in Oregon accessible via the Historic Columbia River Highway. And you could find a way from the Columbia River Gorge. This breathtaking Latourell falls trailhead drops more than 200 feet to form a long ribbon of rushing water and mist.

Wooden foot bridge along hiking trail by Latourell Falls in Columbia Rover Gorge Oregon
Photo by jpldesigns from Depositphotos

Just enjoy the view with other visitors. And it is advised to enjoy the summer here, because the icy cool water is all you need for summers.

At the end of trip you can find a lucrative area at Latourell Falls at Guy W. Talbot State Park for a picnic and free from the crowds.

8. Abiqua Falls

The Oregon waterfall hike to Abiqua Falls is brief, but the reward is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon. The trail itself may be difficult to find and is not well marked.

Return down the dirt road from the parking lot until you reach the forest. Follow the dirt path down to the creek, using the strategically placed rope to help you upstream until you reach the falls.

A breathtaking shot of the Abiqua falls in Oregon, United States with beautiful green nature
Photo by wirestock_creators from Depositphotos

So, the way to tall Abiqua falls is quite adventurous with boulders and log you will tumble into waterfall. As soon as crossed the road to the trailhead is quite rough and rocky. So ensure you have got a good stamina.

9. Upper Proxy Falls

Upper Proxy Falls is a peaceful and serene location, counted among the best waterfalls in Oregon. The falls here aren’t as large as the lower falls, but they flow into a pool that reflects the scenery, making for a beautiful photo opportunity.

Upper Proxy Falls Turn Off Sign with blurred effect over trail
Photo by kvddesign from Depositphotos

Upper Proxy Falls require a little scrambling to get the best view, but nothing compares to lower proxy falls.

10. Horsetail and Ponytail Falls

So, here the trail initiates at Horsetail Falls and then a steep up climbing track. It’s not that far from Ponytail Falls, with trail leads to the caverns eroded.

Ponytail falls in autumn, in the Columbia Gorge of Oregon
Photo by robertcrum from Depositphotos

And you will get the breathtaking views of Oneonta Creek and Gorge.

11. Upper Downing Creek Falls

Now down to another essential waterfall Upper downing creek falls known to exist with spring-fed water.

So the height is 32 feet and offers a distinct cube-shaped basalt steps, pour water along the steps in three to four side channels.

Downing creek falls

But it hugely depends on how much extra snow melt water is present. But you can notice many small streams of water shimmering out of the cliff and falling making it iconic.

The creek produces a huge cloud of mist at fall base. And it makes the forest and cliffs get covered in moss for a beautiful photogenic background.

Oregon Waterfall Hikes

Here are some best waterfalls in Oregon hikes to enjoy with your friends.

1. Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls is visible from the parking area and does not require any hiking.

Tumalo falls Oregon
Photo by kwiktor from Depositphotos

The Tumalo Falls trail, on the other hand, is a 6.50 mile out and back path that starts at Tumalo Falls and passes by many other photogenic waterfalls in Oregon.

2. Sweet Creek Falls Creek

Sweet Creek Falls, is among the must-visit waterfalls in Oregon which cascades 70 feet over four distinct tiers, is an impressive fall located along Sweet Creek Trail.

Wide angle of Sweet Creek, Oregon flowing over rocks in the late spring. A popular Lane County park and hike.
Photo by jamiehooper from Depositphotos

The trail is divided into four distinct segments, each with its trailhead and parking lot. Start at the Homestead Trail for the full hike. Sweet creek falls trailhead is amazing to explore.

The trail is short and easy, making it ideal for beginners and families. A series of fun bridges and metal walkways that skirt the creek are also highlights of the route.

3. Niagara Falls

Among the most famous waterfalls in Oregon, Pheasant Creek Falls and Niagara Falls both have a 100-foot drop and are quite impressive. They cascade from a cliff in Siuslaw National Forest.

Niagara Falls... Oregon!

Although the hike is short enough to reach both falls, it is all downhill, so you will have to climb a series of switchbacks on the way back. At this point, you may be thankful for the trail’s short length.

Despite being roughly the same height, the two falls are quite different. After you’ve turned a corner, you’ll see the Oregon waterfalls and be able to walk right beneath them.

4. Salt Creek Falls

Salt Creek Falls : Oregon’s Second Highest Single-drop Waterfall.

Salt Creek Falls is one of the largest single-drop waterfalls in Oregon. Almost anyone can appreciate this remarkable feat of gravity. The salt creek falls are located in the Willamette National Forest.

5. Toketee Falls

Toketee means graceful and pretty, and that is exactly what you will feel when standing on the viewpoint.

A short hike takes visitors to one of the most photogenic views in the entire state, hidden deep within the Umpqua National Forest. This basalt rock is the result of ancient volcanic activity.  At first glance, it appears that a waterfall is gushing from a massive, fossilized tree.

Toketee Falls, North Umpqua National Forest, Oregon, Usa
Photo by MattLphotography from Depositphotos

The columnar basalt framing gives Toketee Falls a distinct color and texture, making it a photographer’s dream. In the fall, golden yellow leaves add a touch of enchantment to the typically green scenery.

So, the specialty of the fall is basalt formed steps. And the North Umpqua River just cut-out a gorge. And the result you notice is the 113-foot drop of waterfall.

Conclusion

Nothing beats the rushing display of gravity that a waterfall provides. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-term state resident, a waterfall hike is always fun.

One of the most popular waterfall-lined places to visit is the Columbia River Gorge near Portland. Several waterfalls can also be found in Oregon’s national forests.

South Falls at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. The park, which is the largest state park in Oregon, boasts many of the most beautiful waterfalls found in the state.
Photo by CCStockMedia from Depositphotos

And, whether you’re looking for a plunge, a punch bowl, or a collection of cascading drops, each season brings a new perspective and reason to visit. Plan your trip with our listed waterfalls in Oregon.

Some waterfalls in Oregon, such as Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, are easily accessible by vehicle. Others, such as Tamanawas Falls in the Mount Hood National Forest, are more difficult to reach. Always check local conditions before travelling.

FAQs

1. Which is the largest waterfall in Oregon?

Multnomah is the largest and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon.

2. Where are there the most waterfalls in Oregon?

One of the best areas in Oregon to observe waterfalls is the Columbia River Gorge, which is close to Portland.

3. What is the total number of waterfalls in Oregon?

There are 238 waterfalls in Oregon which are absolutely amazing.

Last Updated on February 26, 2023 by jyoti