Article Overview: Where to find the best waterfalls near Bend, Oregon
Looking for the best waterfalls near Bend? You’ve come to the right place.
The short version
Nine waterfalls worth the drive from Bend, from roll-up-and-look easy to earn-it hikes. Tumalo Falls is the one to do first.
- Roll up and look — Tumalo Falls (visible from the lot), Paulina Falls (.5 mi), Falls Creek Falls (.6 mi).
- Easy loop, big payoff — Proxy Falls (1.5 mi loop), Sahalie & Koosah Falls (2.6 mi loop), Salt Creek Falls (short paved trail).
- Earn it — Marion Falls (4.5 mi) and Downing Creek Falls (rough road, then a short scramble) for crowds-free solitude.
My husband and I are avid hikers that have spent the past three years exploring Bend extensively for a film he was commissioned to shoot (on the Deschutes National Forest for Visit Bend which you can see below).
In that time, we’ve hiked to every waterfall in Bend and then some! Below is a quick list of our absolute favorite waterfall hikes in Bend that we recommend personally to our family and friends.
I’m not one for small talk, so let’s get to the good stuff!
Looking for a place to stay? For those asking, here’s the hotel where we usually stay while visiting Bend.
Who am I and why should you trust my list of the best waterfalls near Bend?
Hi there! I’m a lifelong Oregonian (born and raised in Portland) who spent most of my childhood hiking and camping throughout Oregon thanks to my outdoorsy family.
Shortly after meeting my husband (who moved to Oregon from Georgia) we started on a whirlwind tour of Oregon because I wanted to show it off. We visited every corner and popped off at every small town we passed.
We both thoroughly enjoy hiking (and living in Oregon) and as part of that we took it upon ourselves to find the best waterfall hikes near Bend, and general epic Bend hikes, to share with anyone interested in planning a trip to our state.
Best Waterfalls Near Bend, Oregon
Good to know: I’ve included numbers below for organizational purposes, not ranking, these are all great hikes in my opinion!
1. Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls — at a glance
Tumalo Falls is arguably the prettiest waterfall in Bend because it looks picture-perfect. An impressive force of nature, this waterfall cascades nearly 100 feet before splashing into a log-jammed pool below.
Encapsulated by a healthy pine forest, the whole scene around the falls looks fairy-tale perfect. It should come as no surprise that Tumalo Falls gets very crowded.
Since this is the closest waterfall to Bend and the easiest to access (you can see it from the parking lot), it’s a popular pop-off spot for folks en route to the city.
Thankfully, there’s a great little viewpoint that requires no effort to get to. But if you’d like to avoid the crowds, I suggest trekking to the upper viewpoint to get a unique vantage point from the top of Tumalo Falls. I will say this viewpoint isn’t nearly as impressive because you’re looking down at the (now roaring) falls from the top rather than seeing them head-on.
In any event, the .5-mile trail is well maintained, easy to follow, and offers an opportunity to spot a handful of smaller waterfalls if you continue down following Tumalo Creek a bit further.
Tip: The parking lot fills up very quickly, so come early or carpool with friends. I noticed a lot of bikers during my visit, make sure to watch out for them on the trail — it’s a popular mountain bike trail.
My pick — favorite
Tumalo Falls.
It’s the prettiest one and the easiest to reach — nearly 100 feet of water dropping into a log-jammed pool, framed by pine forest, and you can see it from the parking lot. Come early, because that lot fills fast.
2. Proxy Falls
Jaw-dropping waterfalls near Bend, Oregon almost seem commonplace but each one is different and Proxy is definitely special. Offering a spectacular treat for very little effort, this scenic Bend waterfall is one of the best ways to stretch your legs before brunch.
The 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through a healthy forest and a lava flow before looping around two waterfalls. The first waterfall on the hike is Lower Proxy Falls. This is the *the* Proxy Falls that you’ve likely seen in photos like the one above.
When you reach the falls you may notice some folks getting really close to the base, the area is ripe for exploration just make sure you’re wearing proper shoes because it’s very easy to slip.
My pick — easiest big payoff
Proxy Falls.
A spectacular treat for very little effort. The 1.5-mile loop winds through forest and an old lava flow before delivering you to the falls you’ve seen in every Oregon photo. Just wear proper shoes — the rocks near the base are slick.
The massive log in front of the waterfall is a popular spot for folks to take photos but I was too nervous to get on it because it was so slick (ha!) but I saw plenty of other folks having a blast, the adventure is up to you.
The second stop along the trail is Upper Proxy Falls and you might as well see it while you’re out there. Now would Upper Proxy Falls make any best waterfalls near Bend lists on its own? Probably not.
3 & 4. Sahalie & Koosah Falls
Sahalie and Koosah Falls is another great waterfall hike near Bend for families because it’s good for all skill levels. In fact, both waterfalls are visible from parking lot viewing platforms but the best way to experience these Oregon falls is by hiking closer to them.
An easy 2.6-mile loop trail takes hikers past both Koosah and Sahalie Falls while offer breathtaking scenery of moss-laden towering trees and the scenic McKenzie River.
The moss here deserves a moment of pause. I’ve never seen more in my life and this stuff is thick. Be careful when approaching the falls as the spray can get you pretty soaked in no time.
Of the two waterfalls, Sahalie is larger (dropping 100 feet over a lava dam) but 70-foot Koosah is usually the crowd pleaser (personally I prefer Sahalie). In any case, hike to both and see which you prefer for yourself.
5. Paulina Falls
The first time I saw Paulina Falls it was mostly frozen over. It was the dead of winter and I had snowmobiled to get there. Well, in all fairness my husband did most of the snowmobiling. All the same we got there and it was amazing.
After wondering what the falls might look like when not frozen over for long enough, I decided to see for myself. They’re gorgeous! This is definitely one of the best waterfalls near Bend. The best time to see Paulina Falls at its peak is probably in late June some time after the snow has melted off but before it dries up too much.
Getting to the falls is quite easy (in the summer) via a .5 mile trail.
While you’re in the area, be sure to hike the Big Obsidian Flow Trail & Paulina Peak!
6. Falls Creek Falls
Situated along the oh-so-lovely Green Lakes Trail, Falls Creek Falls is deserving of a spot on our list of the best waterfalls near Bend. Sure, the Green Lakes are lovely at the top, But along the way this little gem makes a great pausing point for water and snacks.
Falls Creek Falls (say that three times fast) is one of the easiest Bend waterfalls to access as a mere .6 miles up the trail, you’ll find it raging away (depending on the season). Getting to the falls from the trail is easy requiring a few extra steps toward the creek.
7. Downing Creek Falls
If we’re handing out awards for the waterfalls near Bend that I got lost trying to get to, then Downing Creek gets one (it’s still easier to find than one of the falls coming up on this list).
If it wasn’t so photogenic I’d have been more mad about getting lost on the trail. I’ve pinned the approximate parking spot for the falls here. My recommendation is this – when you turn off onto the access road from Hwy 22, park at the last “turnout” if you can (about a mile in). The road is rough and overgrown so if you’re nervous about your car park at one of the earlier “spots”.
Wherever you end up parking, hike to the end of the gravel road and take the trail from there. You may be tempted (like me) to take the “trail” from an earlier turnout. Don’t. It’s not a trail and will only lead to a profanity-laden hike.
From the end of the road it’s only about a quarter of a mile to the falls, which are really stunning. Seriously, wow. Pack a snack and enjoy it for a while. Odds are you’ll be the only one out there. This is easily the least trafficked of the waterfalls near Bend on this list for those who make the trek.
8. Marion Falls
Do you like hiking, waterfalls and experience nature sans crowds? Marion Falls may just be your cup of tea.
Marion Falls is a great waterfall hike in Bend for anyone that feels an epic waterfall experience has to be earned through effort. Listen, more power to you!
This epic Bend waterfall hike follows a 4.5-mile trail that’s rarely busy because most folks opt to see the waterfalls that don’t require as much hiking. Thankfully, Oregon can satisfy the needs of both.
The hike leading up to Marion Falls guides you through a healthy and dense coniferous forest that meanders past the scenic Marion Creek.
You may need to scramble up a few boulders towards the end of the hike to reach the falls, but let’s get real — isn’t this the waterfall adventure you had in mind? You thrill seeker, you.
9. Salt Creek Falls (The Second Highest Waterfall in Oregon)
Located within the vast and beautiful Willamette National Forest lies the second-tallest single drop waterfall in Oregon.
The hike leading to this Bend waterfalls is relatively short, so it’s definitely worth the effort.
The first viewpoint is easily accessible directly from the parking lot but the other view requires a short hike. The paved trail will take you into a breathtaking canyon before spitting you out at the base of the waterfall.
The powerful force of this 286-foot waterfall in Bend is a sight to behold.
Further Reading: 15 JAW-DROPPING Hikes Near Bend, Oregon
Waterfalls Near Bend to Avoid
10. Chush Falls
Whychus (or Chush) Falls was once one of the most popular waterfalls in Bend. But goodness, due to the devastating fires that closed the trailhead for a while, it’s so challenging to find!
Plus, it doesn’t help that GPS routes you down the wrong road and you’ll end up losing service in this area of the forest. It can be a frustrating experience if you’re not properly prepared. Honestly I’d say avoid this hike until a proper trail is constructed to get to the falls again.
The most helpful blog post I’ve found on the right directions can be found here.
You should be able to park directly at the trailhead, which will make the nearly 5-mile hike much more manageable.
The trail takes you through a burned forest, which is a very strange feeling. I’d like to say there’s beauty in it, but honestly, it just made me sad. However, we were on a mission to find the waterfall, so we continued on.
The trail ends at the rim of a canyon overlooking Chush Falls but most hikers choose to traverse down to the base. The trail is steep and slippery, so proper hiking shoes are non-negotiable.
Tips for exploring the best waterfalls in Bend, Oregon
Leave no trace
- If you’re unfamiliar with Leave No Trace, it’s a measure to be a good steward of the land. You can read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here.
You + Sunscreen = Best Friends (Forever)
- I swear by this sunscreen (and so do 5,000+ other people), I discovered it in France and now buy it in bulk. It works like a charm and doesn’t leave strange residue or smells, you’ll NEVER catch me without it!
Best time to see waterfalls
- Waterfalls vary by season, so based on the time of year you choose to hike to a waterfall in Oregon you will see drastically different results. Hiking conditions are ideal during the pleasant summer months but most waterfalls reduce to a trickle.
- Hiking in winter is dangerous but the weather conditions completely transform the landscape and the force of the waterfall is greatly intensified. There’s no bad time to do an Oregon waterfall hike, just be aware that the seasons affect the waterfall condition.
Wear hiking boots with good traction
- Even though (most) Oregon waterfall trails are well maintained, exposed roots are common. It’s easy to trip on the trail, so set yourself up for success by wearing proper shoes. These are my hiking boots and I’d sleep in them if I could.
Bend Waterfalls in this Video
Here’s the video I promised at the top of the article that we created for Visit Bend & the US Forest Service. At least three of the waterfalls mentioned in the article are featured, Paulina Falls at 1:08, Tumalo Falls at 3:02, Falls Creek Falls at 3:20, & Tumalo again at 3:55. Enjoy!
Best Waterfalls Near Bend (Post Summary)
- Tumalo Falls
- Proxy Falls
- Sahalie Falls
- Koosah Falls
- Paulina Falls
- Falls Creek Falls
- Downing Creek Falls
- Marion Falls
- Salt Creek Falls
- Wychus (Avoid)
Map of Waterfalls Near Bend
Camping in Bend, Oregon
- Camping is allowed on the outskirts of the city on the national forests. Pitch a tent and invite some friends. Here’s our 10 FAVORITE campsites in Bend.
Best Restaurants Bend
Chances are high that you’ll need to grab something to eat after your epic waterfall hikes in Bend, Oregon.
Thankfully, Bend has an incredible food scene and you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy. Eating is a social event and it’s common to see large groups gathered together late into the evening. Here’s a roundup of my favorite restaurants in Bend:
Breakfast
- McKay Cottage Restaurant is a great spot for breakfast. I wish I could start every day with a meal from this place, and apparently so does half of Bend. This place gets very busy during the brunch hour, but the food is well worth the wait, try their pancakes and you’ll know what I mean. If you choose to brave the line, help yourself to a hot cup of coffee while you wait. There’s a self-serve station by the host.
- Jackson’s Corner became an instant favorite of mine. The warm homemade bread (need I say more?) and the quality ingredients shine through in these delicious meals. We visited the eastside location on a Sunday morning and had to wait an hour, this place gets very busy but there’s a good reason for it.
- Sparrow Bakery for their famous Ocean Rolls, a signature Bend pastry made from scratch every day of the week. Without giving away the goose, allow me to say the recipe starts with traditional croissant dough made on-site, enhanced with cardamom, sugar and vanilla. It is heavenly, I spent the entire day thinking about it.
Lunch
- Spork (a Mexican fusion restaurant) is the best choice. The food here is so, so delicious and unique, we went back two days in a row. $20 says you will too. The line is out the door during dinner rush and sometimes late into the evening. Come early, come hungry.
Dinner
- For dinner pick a brewery, any brewery! We like to try a new one each time we visit (there’s so many to choose from!). I can confidently recommend any of the following breweries for great food and even better beer.
- 10 Barrel Brewing (my favorite, seasonal salad is divine), Deschutes Brewery & Public House, Immersion Brewing, Sunriver Brewing, Three Creeks Brewing, Bend Brewing, Crux.
Helpful Bend Articles
- Living in Bend: 20 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Bend
- Things to Do: 20 Epic Things to Do in Bend
- Camping: The BEST Campgrounds in Bend, Oregon
- Hiking: 20 Best Hikes in Bend Oregon (and nearby!)
- Wine Bars: 10 Charming Bend Wine Bars to Visit
- Breweries: 15 Best Bend Breweries to Worth the Visit
- Coffee + Cafes: 8 Charming Cafes in Bend to Enjoy A Cup of Coffee
- Cocktail Bars: 5 Charming Cocktail Bars in Bend
- Skylight Cave: Exploring Skylight Cave Like A Pro (Everything to Know)
- Tumalo Mountain: Sunrise Hike to Tumalo Mountain
- Blue Pool: A Stunning Look at Bend’s Tamolitch Blue Pool
- Misery Ridge: Hiking the Epic Misery Ridge Trail
- Broken Top: Hiking the Epic Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake
