Explore our world-class mountaineering library, apply for one of our grants, and dig in to your member resources.
Silver Falls State Park is the crown jewel of the Oregon State Parks system, being both Oregon's largest State Park (9,000 acres) and boasting one of America's most impressive waterfall day-hikes. There are no less than ten falls on this 8.7-mile loop (which can be reduced via two cutoff trails), and most of them are flat-out gorgeous. Most folks will handle the rolling elevation, with about 1,300 feet of total accumulation, in three to five hours. Unless it's a foul-weather day in the middle of a week in winter, count on seeing plenty of other visitors on the trail.
Activity Notes
The classic loop visiting Winter Falls, South Falls, Frenchie Falls, Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, North Falls, and Upper North Falls. We will walk behind 4 of these waterfalls.
We will start at North Falls Trailhead. An Oregon State Parks Pass is required at this trailhead.
We will be looking for at least 1 other driver. Suggested gas donation is $10/passenger.
Expect rain/snow. Reports are minimal icy spots and microspikes unnecessary. There is a small chance of freezing rain Thursday but warmer temperatures Friday and Saturday. I will continue to monitor the weather as we get closer.
8 miles, 1300' gain
***One of my motivations for leading hikes is to provide opportunities to improve mental and physical health. There's a lot of evidence that spending time outside in nature and socially engaging outside of work is good for the body and mind. Minorities tend to experience more stress, especially in today's political climate. Therefore, I invite all races, ethnicities, genders, sexualities, economic classes, religions, languages, and all other minorities to join me on my hikes!
***This hike will take place on historically Kalapuya and Molalla land. I encourage you to learn about these tribes, which are currently both under the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde!
| Other Information | |
|---|---|
| Driving Distance from Portland | 55 miles |
| Driving Time from Portland | 1 hours |
| Distance - Round Trip | 8 miles |
| Expected Duration | Car to car in one day |
| Interesting Features | Waterfalls |
| Awards Qualified | Waterfall Award |
