Growing up in the glorious Pacific Northwest, I took the incredible waterfalls in Oregon for granted for far too long.
In fact, it wasn’t until I moved out of Oregon that I started feeling homesick for the unparalleled nature of the Pacific Northwest and regretted not spending even more time outdoors.
Heck, even though I spent most of my free time (weekends and vacations) over the past 5 years exploring amazing Oregon waterfalls, I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface.
I mean, Oregon is home to more than 230 waterfalls (that we know of)! Some of the most striking waterfalls in the world are found in our very backyard. So learn from my mistake and get out there.
Pack your car and call a friend, today we plan your trip to the best waterfalls in Oregon. Let’s get to it!
The short version
Oregon has 230+ waterfalls, but a handful stand above the rest. Here are the standouts by region so you can plan around wherever you’re headed.
- Columbia Gorge — 620-ft Multnomah Falls (timed-entry permit May–Sep) is the icon; Latourell and Elowah are the quieter beauties.
- Mt. Hood — Tamanawas Falls, a thundering ~110-ft curtain reached on a 3.4-mile hike.
- Central Oregon — Proxy Falls and roadside Salt Creek Falls (286 ft, the state’s tallest single drop after Multnomah).
- Southern Oregon — Toketee Falls, the two-tiered basalt stunner I’d call the prettiest in the state.
- Willamette Valley — Silver Falls State Park’s Trail of Ten Falls, where you walk behind 177-ft South Falls.
Why should you trust my list of the best waterfalls in Oregon?
For starters, I’m a lifelong Oregonian! I was raised in Portland and spent most of my childhood exploring the spectacular natural wonders of Oregon. Shortly after meeting my husband we started on a whirlwind tour of the state — visiting every corner and popping off at every small town we passed.
My husband films national parks and forests for a living (I know, I can’t believe that can be a real job either) and so we hike a lot.
We both thoroughly enjoy hiking (and living in Oregon) and have made it our mission to find the best waterfalls in Oregon to share with anyone interested in planning a trip to our beloved state. To that end, if there’s a waterfall I missed that’s worthy of inclusion on this list please drop me a comment below!
Tips for Exploring Oregon’s Waterfalls
Here’s a quick overview to help you plan. Scroll down for the full details on each one.
| Waterfall | Height | Trail Distance | Difficulty | Region | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multnomah Falls | 620 ft | 2.4 mi RT | Moderate | Columbia Gorge | Year-round |
| Tamanawas Falls | 110 ft | 3.4 mi | Easy-Moderate | Mt. Hood | Summer-Fall |
| Toketee Falls | 113 ft | 0.8 mi | Easy | Southern Oregon | Year-round |
| Abiqua Falls | 92 ft | 0.5 mi (steep) | Moderate | Willamette Valley | Spring-Summer |
| Tumalo Falls | 97 ft | 0.4 mi | Easy | Central Oregon | Summer-Fall |
| Proxy Falls | 226 ft | 1.5 mi loop | Easy | Central Oregon | Summer-Fall |
| South Falls | 177 ft | 8 mi loop | Moderate | Silver Falls SP | Year-round |
| Latourell Falls | 249 ft | 2.4 mi loop | Easy | Columbia Gorge | Year-round |
| Salt Creek Falls | 286 ft | 0.2 mi | Easy | Central Oregon | Summer-Fall |
| Ramona Falls | 120 ft | 7.1 mi | Moderate | Mt. Hood | Summer-Fall |
| Sahalie & Koosah Falls | 100/70 ft | 2.6 mi | Easy | Central Oregon | Summer-Fall |
| Bridal Veil Falls | 120 ft | 0.5 mi | Easy | Columbia Gorge | Year-round |
| Punch Bowl Falls | 35 ft | 3.4 mi | Moderate | Columbia Gorge | Spring-Fall |
| White River Falls | 90 ft | 0.25 mi | Easy | Central Oregon | Spring-Summer |
| Elowah Falls | 213 ft | 1.6 mi | Easy | Columbia Gorge | Spring-Fall |
| Watson Falls | 293 ft | 0.8 mi | Easy | Southern Oregon | Summer-Fall |
| Gorton Creek Falls | 115 ft | 4 mi | Moderate | Columbia Gorge | Spring-Fall |
| Paulina Falls | 80 ft | 0.5 mi | Easy | Central Oregon | Summer |
| Sweet Creek Falls | 20 ft | 2.2 mi | Easy | Southern Oregon | Year-round |
| Downing Creek Falls | 100 ft | 0.3 mi | Easy | Southern Oregon | Spring-Summer |
| Horsetail Falls | 176 ft | Roadside | Easy | Columbia Gorge | Year-round |
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 in Oregon
- 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.
21 Best Waterfalls in Oregon (2026)
21. Downing Creek Falls
- Waterfall Location: Detroit, Oregon
- Distance: 0.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (rough access road)
- Best Season: Spring and early summer
Situated near the town of Detroit, Downing Creek Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls in Oregon because of the striking contrast between the rushing 40-foot waterfall and the thick carpet of moss that insulates every inch of the stunning landscape.
This is one of the harder waterfalls to find in Oregon, which is why it remains elusive to so many folks.
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 slog through the dense brush along the creek.
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 best Oregon waterfalls on this list for those who make the trek.
This is a great Oregon waterfall for photographers because chances are high you’ll have the whole place to yourself and you can play around with all the angles.
20. Sweet Creek Falls
- Waterfall Location: Mapleton, Oregon
- Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Year-round (best in spring)
Sweet Creek Falls is an epic four-tier waterfall that cascades down 70 feet over mossy rocks and smooth logs into a large pool of icy water. The base is a great spot to enjoy a snack or packed lunch and just admire this picture-perfect Oregon waterfall.
The trail guides visitors to all four tiers of the waterfall which is handy because some of the tiers are only visible from certain vantage points as each of the drops pivots a bit from the last.
The first tier cascades 10 feet, the second drop creates a horsetail formation whilst dropping 30 feet before merging with the final two tiers that clock in at 15 feet each. The culmination of this watery splendor is a feast for the eyes.
And since certain bends in the creek keep some of the waterfall out of view, the best way to experience this in all its glory is by hiking to each one. Otherwise you may only see the bottom two tiers, which are still pretty epic but only half the story.
19. Paulina Falls
Waterfall Location: Bend, Oregon
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. Although I may or may not have tipped over the snowmobile on the way…
Anyway, after wondering what the falls might look like when not frozen-over for long enough, I decided to see for myself. They’re gorgeous!
Oregon has a lot of beautiful waterfalls but these are pretty unique in the way there’s multiple sections cascading down of a single plateau. Not the only waterfall that does this but worth the stop in my book.
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!
18. Gorton Creek Falls
- Waterfall Location: Columbia River Gorge
- Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Difficult (slippery, scrambling required)
- Best Season: Late spring through fall
This epic waterfall hike is as whimsical as you can image. It starts at Wyeth Trailhead near Gorton Creek where a heavily moss-laden trails leads you to Gorton Creek Falls, a secluded 115 feet waterfall.
The reason Gorton Creek falls is one of the best waterfalls in Oregon is because it feels like a secret. Unlike its very popular neighbors along the gorge, few folks choose to hike out here.
After witnessing my husband slip and smack his head on a rock it makes sense why. Word to the wise, this trail is slippery to the point of dangerous so be careful and don’t rush (like he did).
The trail follows a path for 1/2 mile before ending at Emerald Falls, another pretty Oregon waterfall. The adventure doesn’t stop there, rather this is where the fun begins.
Following a peaceful creek, the hike between Emerald Falls and Gorton Creek Falls requires sturdy slip-proof shoes and a sense of adventure.
Hiking to this incredible Oregon waterfall you get the feeling of being on an expedition searching for El Dorado or something. Towards the end you’ll need scramble up some boulders to reach it. As long as you watch your step and don’t rush, you’ll be completely fine — Gorton Creek Falls is worth the effort.
16. Elowah Falls
- Waterfall Location: Columbia River Gorge
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Spring (April through June)
If you love waterfalls but hate crowds, Elowah Falls might just become your new favorite spot in the Columbia River Gorge. While everyone flocks to Multnomah and Latourell, this 213-foot beauty sits quietly tucked into a mossy basalt amphitheater, waiting for the hikers who bother to seek it out.
The trail is short and sweet, just under a mile from the parking area to the base of the falls. And when you get there? You’ll understand why I kept this one close to the vest for so long. The mist coming off the falls creates this lush, almost tropical feeling that’s so unexpected for the Gorge.
My husband and I first stumbled on Elowah Falls during a rainy spring morning and we had the entire place to ourselves. The falls were absolutely thundering. I stood at the base completely mesmerized (and completely soaked, but who cares).
If you’ve a little extra time, take the upper trail to the viewpoint above the falls. The perspective from up there’s totally different and gives you a gorgeous look at the Gorge stretching out below. Two trails, two completely different experiences, one incredible waterfall.
17. Watson Falls (Southwest Oregon’s Tallest Waterfall)
- Waterfall Location: Douglas County, Oregon
- Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Best Season: Late spring through early fall
In the safe confines of the Upmpqua National Forest, a mere stone’s throw from Oregon’s only national park (hey, Crater Lake) lies the highest waterfall in southwest Oregon and the third largest waterfall in the state.
Watson Falls plunges a staggering 293 (continuous) feet and makes for one heck of an incredible display.
Observing the falls, your eyes start with the lush mossy, fern-filled floor and follow the beautiful white ribbon of cascading water up through its rocky cathedral, past the the spill-over point, and into the healthy forest layer above before reaching the deep blue sky.
A short half-mile hike leads you directly to a magnificent viewpoint that displays this incredible Oregon waterfall in all its glory.
Read the interpretive signage along the trail to learn more about the geology of this incredible landscape.
14. White River Falls
- Waterfall Location: Maupin, Oregon
- Distance: 0.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy (steep descent to base)
- Best Season: Spring for best flow, summer for swimming
White River Falls is intriguing in the sense that it’s situated in an arid landscape that doesn’t seem primed for the impressive and lush waterfalls we’re used to and yet here we are.
Diving a stately distance of 90 feet into a striking pool of ice-cold water is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Oregon, White River Falls.
There’s two ways to see this incredible Oregon waterfall, either from a parking lot platform or with a short (but steep) half-mile hike.
From there you may notice a side trail. Should you choose to take it you’ll find yourself at the foot of the waterfall, free to dip your feet in the icy water.
This waterfall is out there. Those who have been to Maupin know what I’m talking about. It’s out of the way for most traditional road trips but if you happen to be in the area, well worth the detour.
The last time we were here was on a road trip being chased by a big storm. We got to White River Falls just in time to see it in full splendor before the clouds moved in.
Heads up: This Oregon waterfall swells with people during the hot summer months because it provides and invaluable reprieve from the oppressive summer heat.
13. Punch Bowl Falls
- Waterfall Location: Columbia River Gorge
- Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Season: Late spring through fall
Located about 2-miles into the epic Eagle Creek Trail en route to Tunnel Falls, Punch Bowl Falls is an aptly-named Oregon waterfall well worth the trek. This adventurous hike lives up to to the hype, even with the charred tattoo of the teenager-caused Eagle Creek Fire of 2017.
Trail Update (March 2026): Eagle Creek Trail is currently closed due to severe storm damage from December 2025. No reopening date has been set.
The trail follows towering basalt walls, mammoth conifers, vine-tangled maples, and plenty of cascading waterfalls. Indeed, every inch of the trail treats hikers to the quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, which adds to its status as one of the best waterfalls in Oregon.
Local’s Advice: One thing to note is that while the photo above is current, most of the images you see of Punch Bowl Falls are no longer accurate. As a result of the fire, a massive log jam now blocks the original entrance to the falls. Reaching the waterfall requires a difficult (but doable) trek over the log pile.
Good to Know: Locals swarm to this beloved watering hole in the hot summer months, but take warning, cliff diving is prohibited (and subject to a $300 fine).
12. Bridal Veil Falls
- Waterfall Location: Columbia River Gorge
- Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Year-round
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Oregon to explore with kids because the viewpoint is located right off the parking lot.
The waterfall drops 120 feet between two distinct tiers and visitors can explore both via a quick hike.
The lower trail descends to a creek before ascending to a beautiful viewpoint at the base of this iconic waterfall. You’ll pass by Bridal Veil Creek and notice what remains of the Bridal Veil Falls Lumbering Company. Read the interpretive signage to learn more about the mill if you’re interested.
The Overlook Trail is a paved half-mile trail that leads to a vista overlooking the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge. Since both trails are easy to do with kids I highly recommend making the effort them in tandem.
11. Sahalie & Koosah Falls
- Waterfall Location: Camp Sherman, Oregon
- Distance: 2.6-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Late spring through early fall
Sahalie and Koosah Falls is another great Oregon waterfall hike 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.
10. Ramona Falls
- Waterfall Location: Mount Hood National Forest
- Distance: 7.1 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Season: Summer through early fall
Tell any Portlander that you plan to spend a day at Mt. Hood National Forest and you’re bound to get a recommendation to visit Ramona Falls, easily one Oregon best waterfalls.
Following the Sandy River, the 7-mile trail to Ramona Falls is best described as moderate, but it’s so scenic the time seems to fly by. We’ve hiked so many trails in Oregon over the years and consider this one of the most beautiful.
Update (March 2026): The seasonal bridge at Ramona Falls is no longer installed by the Forest Service (since 2021). Hikers must ford the Sandy River, which can be dangerous during high water. Check current conditions before your trip.
Reaching Ramona Falls requires sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure. An old bridge that connected the trail past the Sandy River was washed out so hikers now need to cross the river by balancing on logs. The adventurous hike to the falls is half the fun!
This is one of the most popular waterfall hikes near Portland during summer because of the trail’s proximity to the city. I recommend getting to the falls as early as possible to avoid crowds. We hiked it last summer about an hour after sunrise and had the whole trail to ourselves.
9. Salt Creek Falls (The second tallest waterfall in Oregon)
- Waterfall Location: Willamette National Forest, Oregon
- Distance: 0.6 miles round trip (to canyon viewpoint)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Late spring through early fall
Located within the vast and beautiful Willamette National Forest lies the second-tallest single drop waterfall in Oregon. The powerful force of this 286-foot Oregon waterfall can be experienced from one of two viewpoints.
One viewpoint is accessible directly from the parking lot and the other view requires a quick .6 hike but leads directly into the canyon and eventually to the base of the falls. The power of these falls is hard to describe but wow, this is one that must be experienced first hand.
While you’re in the area be sure to check out Waldo Lake, one of the clearest lakes in the world and a spot that I think is worthy of consideration for the Seven Wonders of Oregon.
My pick — best easy access
Salt Creek Falls.
You get the second-tallest single-drop waterfall in Oregon (286 feet) from a viewpoint right off the parking lot — no hiking required. If you want more, a quick 0.6-mile path drops into the canyon toward the base. Hard to beat that much waterfall for that little effort.
8. Latourell Falls
- Waterfall Location: Columbia River Gorge
- Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Best Season: Year-round (best in spring)
Being the closest waterfall in the Columbia Gorge to the city of Portland, this is one of the most popular waterfalls in Oregon. Everyone and their dog has seen it, loved it and told the tale.
So believe me when I tell you that this waterfall is crowded, but you simply can’t miss it.
Plunging a jaw-dropping 249 feet over the lip of an impressive amphitheater made of dark columnar basalt, this Oregon waterfall hike feels like a great reward for little effort.
An easy 2.4-mile trail leads visitors directly to the first viewpoint before opening up to a dirt path that heads uphill and gets you closer to one of the most epic waterfalls in Oregon.
From here you can choose to return to the car or hiker further uphill to Upper Latourell Falls, which I recommend you do so that you can enjoy this waterfall in all its glory.
7. South Falls (The Trail of Ten Falls)
- Waterfall Location: Mehama, Oregon
- Distance: 7.9-mile loop (full Trail of Ten Falls)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Season: Year-round (stunning in winter)
Of all the breathtaking Oregon waterfalls on the Trail of Ten Falls, none is more photographed than South Falls and there’s a reason for that. Plunging to striking depths of 177 feet, hikers are allowed to go behind the thundering curtain for a unique waterfall hike that feels like a sacred privileged.
At 9,000 acres, Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon. Home to numerous waterfalls, it’s considered the crown jewel of the state park system.
The best way to explore this area? Hike the epic Trail of Ten Falls where you’ll wander past 10 waterfalls in the span of less 8 miles.
While all 10 waterfalls along the trail are worth exploring, South Falls takes the cake because of its undeniable beauty and the fact that you can walk behind the curtain of water. It’s a rush like no other and an experience you simply can’t forget.
So if you’re looking for the best waterfall hikes in Oregon, the Trail of Ten Falls simply can’t be missed.
Note: Dogs are prohibited on the Canyon Trail portion of this Oregon hike — which is where the waterfalls are located.
6. Proxy Falls
- Waterfall Location: Bend, Oregon
- Distance: 1.5-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Summer through early fall
Jaw-dropping waterfalls in Central Oregon almost seem commonplace but not all of them are as easily accessible as Proxy Falls.
Offering a spectacular treat for very little effort, this scenic waterfall hike in Oregon is one of the best ways to stretch your legs before brunch.
The 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through a healthy forest that loops around two waterfalls. The first waterfall on the hike is Lower Proxy Falls.
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.
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 would be remiss to skip it!
Both of these waterfalls are incredible and serve as proof that Oregon has some of the best waterfalls in the country.
5. Tumalo Falls
- Waterfall Location: Bend, Oregon
- Distance: 0.5 miles round trip (to upper viewpoint)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Summer through early fall
Tumalo Falls is one of the prettiest waterfalls in Oregon 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, this whole scene looks like a scene from a fairy tale. So you probably won’t be surprised to learn that Tumalo Falls gets very crowded.
Since this is one of the easiest waterfalls in Oregon to access (you can see it from the parking lot), it’s a popular pop-off spot for folks en route to Bend.
Thankfully, there’s a great little viewpoint that requires no effort to get to. But if you’d like to avoid crowds, I suggest trekking to the upper viewpoint to get a unique vantage point from the top of Tumalo Falls.
The 0.5-mile trail is well maintained and easy to follow and offers an opportunity to spot a handful of smaller waterfalls along the way.
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.
Further Reading: 15 JAW-DROPPING Hikes Near Bend, Oregon
Deschutes National Forest Film
My husband and I traveled through Bend extensively because he was commissioned to create a film on the Deschutes National Forest. The film features Tumalo Falls along with many more. I posted the video above!
4. Abiqua Falls
- Waterfall Location: Scotts Mill, Oregon
- Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep, ropes, scrambling)
- Best Season: Spring (highest water flow)
Abiqua Falls is one of Oregon’s best kept secrets. Tucked into a majestic amphitheater of striking basalt adorned with moss and red lichen, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon.
The reason? There’s a little bit of effort involved and an adventurous spirit is required.
This 0.8-mile trail is considered one of the best waterfall hikes in Oregon. It’s short but steep, so make sure you’re wearing proper hiking shoes. You’ll notice a handful of ropes on the trail, use them during the steep descents and ascents to avoid slips.
You may need to scramble over boulders and rocks, but it’s nothing too crazy. Trust me, this is one of the best waterfalls in Oregon and is well worth the effort.
The trail leads to a pleasant creek that you’ll follow until the trail ends at a massive basalt bowl that houses Abiqua Falls. But let’s get real — you’ll be hearing this Oregon waterfall long before you see it because the rushing force of 90 feet is powerful.
Note: Parking at the trailhead requires a high-clearance vehicle, otherwise you’ll need to park further up and hike in.
3. Toketee Falls
- Waterfall Location: Idleyld Park, Oregon
- Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best Season: Year-round
You probably know by now that Oregon is truly the land of waterfalls. We definitely have our fair share of jaw-dropping waterfalls to choose from but for me personally, none is more notable than Toketee Falls in Douglas County, Oregon.
The name Toketee stems from a Chinook word meaning “graceful” or “pretty” and there’s no denying this is an aptly named waterfall.
This two-tiered waterfall cascades an impressive 113 feet into a pool of pristine aqua-colored water. Similar to Tumalo Falls, it feels like a scene from a fairy tale, which is why I consider this one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon.
The hike to reach Toketee Falls is a mere 0.8-mile round trip and only 200 feet of elevation gain. You’ll get views of the pristine Umpqua River along the trail but nothing will prepare you for the breathtaking viewpoint that opens up to the waterfall in full force.
My pick — favorite waterfall
Toketee Falls.
If I had to pick just one it’s this two-tiered, 113-foot cascade framed by columnar basalt and falling into an aqua pool. Its name comes from the Chinook word for “graceful,” and an easy 0.8-mile round trip gets you there. The prettiest in the state, full stop.
2. Tamanawas Falls
- Waterfall Location: Mount Hood National Forest
- Distance: 3.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Season: Summer through early fall
Of all the incredible Oregon waterfalls I’ve had the privilege of exploring, none has impressed me more than Tamanawas Falls at Mount Hood National Forest.
The waterfall reveals itself at the lip of an impressive lava cliff and cascades down a thundering 110 feet before reaching the chilly pool at your feet.
The best part? Reaching this epic waterfall requires an effort because of the 3.4-mile trail, so the waterfall isn’t as crowded as some of the other more popular waterfalls in Oregon.
Clean mountain air and a striking evergreen forest guide the way as the trail hugs the pristine Cold Spring Creek for 1.5-miles before spitting you out at a breathtaking viewpoint.
Don’t rush your time at the viewpoint and allow the magic of the moment to enchant you. You’re at the base of one of Oregon’s best waterfalls, take it all in because you’ve earned it.
My pick — best hike-to waterfall
Tamanawas Falls.
No waterfall on this list has impressed me more. The 3.4-mile trail hugs Cold Spring Creek through clean evergreen forest before the falls reveal themselves over a lava cliff, dropping ~110 feet. The effort keeps the crowds down, and you can walk behind the curtain. Worth every step.
1. Multnomah Falls (The Tallest Waterfall in Oregon)
- Note: Timed Entry Only
- Parking Pass Required?: Yes, must reserve in advance
- Dogs Allowed? Yes, must be kept on leash.
Plunging a staggering 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon. Attracting international visitors on a daily basis, this waterfall is a breathtaking sight that can be enjoyed up close and personal. Take a hike to the Benson Bridge (pictured above) for a better vantage of the towering falls.
Meander past the rushing force of Multnomah Falls and feel the mist along the paved trail. The hike isn’t too taxing on the knees and well worth the effort, which makes this this one of the best family-friendly waterfall hikes near Portland.
As you can imagine, this is one of the most popular waterfall hikes near Portland, heck, probably the state as a whole. To mitigate overuse, parking and timed entry have been implemented. Make sure to read up on the rules using the reservation links above.
Best Oregon Waterfalls (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the best waterfalls in Oregon.
- Multnomah Falls
- Tamanawas Falls
- Toketee Falls
- Abiqua Falls
- Tumalo Falls
- Proxy Falls
- South Falls on Trail of Ten Falls
- Latourell Falls
- Salt Creek Falls
- Ramona Falls
- Sahalie & Koosah Falls
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Punch Bowl Falls
- White River Falls
- Watson Falls
- Elowah Falls
- Fall Creek Falls
- Gorton Creek Falls
- Sweet Creek Falls
- Marion Falls
- Downing Creek Falls
Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Waterfalls
What is the most beautiful waterfall in Oregon?
This is such a hard question because Oregon has so many gorgeous waterfalls, but if I had to pick just one it would be Toketee Falls. The two-tiered cascade framed by columnar basalt is unlike anything else I’ve seen in the state. That said, Multnomah Falls is the most iconic, and Abiqua Falls hidden inside its basalt amphitheater is absolutely jaw-dropping. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Are there waterfalls near Portland?
So many! Portland is one of the best cities in the country for waterfall access. The Columbia River Gorge is less than 30 minutes from downtown and is packed with incredible waterfalls including Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Elowah Falls, and Punch Bowl Falls. You could easily spend a full weekend just exploring Gorge waterfalls. Tamanawas Falls and Ramona Falls near Mount Hood are also within a reasonable day trip from the city.
Do you need hiking experience to see Oregon waterfalls?
Not at all! Many of Oregon’s best waterfalls are accessible with little to no hiking. Multnomah Falls, Tumalo Falls, Salt Creek Falls, and Paulina Falls can all be viewed from parking lot viewpoints. Sahalie and Koosah Falls have paved viewing platforms right by the road. For waterfalls like Abiqua Falls or Gorton Creek Falls you’ll want some hiking experience and sturdy shoes, but the majority of waterfalls on this list are beginner-friendly.
What is the best time of year to visit Oregon waterfalls?
Spring (April through June) is hands down my favorite time to visit Oregon waterfalls. Snowmelt feeds the falls and they’re absolutely roaring. The wildflowers are blooming and the trails are lush and green. Summer is the most comfortable for hiking but water flow drops significantly. Winter can be magical (frozen waterfalls are stunning) but trails can be icy and dangerous. Fall is a lovely shoulder season with fewer crowds and beautiful foliage.
Are dogs allowed at Oregon waterfalls?
It depends on the specific trail. Many Oregon waterfall trails are dog-friendly as long as your pup is on a leash. Multnomah Falls allows leashed dogs, and most trails in the national forests welcome them too. However, dogs aren’t allowed on the Canyon Trail at Silver Falls State Park (which is the Trail of Ten Falls). Always check the specific regulations for each trailhead before you go, and remember to pack out after your furry hiking buddy.
Tips for Visiting Oregon Waterfalls
After years of chasing waterfalls across Oregon, I’ve picked up a few things that will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here is what I wish someone had told me before my first waterfall adventure.
Parking Passes and Permits
Most waterfall trailheads in Oregon require either a Northwest Forest Pass or an Oregon State Parks day-use permit. A Northwest Forest Pass costs $30 for a year and covers you at national forest trailheads across Oregon and Washington. If you plan to visit more than a couple of waterfalls (and you should), this pass pays for itself quickly. Multnomah Falls now requires timed-entry reservations during peak season, so plan ahead and book your slot early.
Trail Conditions in Winter
Winter waterfall chasing in Oregon is absolutely magical but it comes with real risks. Trails can be icy, muddy, and covered in fallen debris. Some higher elevation trails (like Proxy Falls and Tumalo Falls) may be completely snowed in from November through May. Traction devices like microspikes are a must if you plan to hike to waterfalls in winter. I always carry mine from October through April just in case. The payoff is worth it though because frozen waterfalls and snowy forests are truly something special.
Beating the Crowds
Oregon waterfalls get very crowded during summer weekends, especially the ones near Portland. My number one tip is to start early. I’m talking sunrise early. My husband and I’ve had Ramona Falls, Tamanawas Falls, and even Multnomah Falls nearly to ourselves by showing up right when the trails open. Weekdays are also significantly less crowded than weekends. If you can swing a midweek visit, do it. You’ll thank yourself when you’re standing at the base of a thundering waterfall in peaceful solitude.
Photography Tips
If you want those silky smooth waterfall photos you see all over Instagram, bring a tripod and a neutral density filter. Overcast days are actually the best for waterfall photography because harsh sunlight creates blown-out highlights and deep shadows that are tough to work with. My husband always says cloudy days are “waterfall weather” and he is absolutely right. A polarizing filter also helps cut glare on wet rocks and water. And don’t forget a microfiber cloth because the mist will coat your lens before you know it.
Map of the best waterfalls in Oregon
Here’s a quick overview of the locations of the Oregon waterfalls listed in this post.
Love exploring Oregon?
If you love exploring Oregon here’s some reading suggestions you may find interesting.
- The 7 Wonders of Oregon (& 4 More We Should Add ASAP)
- 20 JAW-DROPPING Oregon Hikes (For All Skill Levels)
- 15+ EPIC Things to Do in Bend, Oregon
And there you’ve it my friends – a quick roundup of the best waterfalls in Oregon. I hope you enjoyed the post!
Until next time,
Antonina
