Top 15 Breathtaking Waterfalls to Explore in Oregon

Oregon is a state located in the northwest region of the USA along the Pacific Coast.

A significant portion of the state remains unspoiled, characterized by mountains, forests, canyons, and beaches.

Residents of urban areas have numerous opportunities to immerse themselves in nature and explore these landscapes.

Popular recreational activities include fishing, hiking, and biking, with many of Oregon’s trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls.

The state boasts abundant flowing water, and here are 15 remarkable waterfalls in Oregon that you will undoubtedly appreciate.

1. Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge

Multnomah Falls is the tallest and most renowned waterfall in Oregon.

With a primary drop of 540 feet and an overall height of 620 feet, it is a striking sight.

This iconic attraction draws over two million visitors annually.

A bridge situated at the foot of the first drop offers an excellent vantage point for photography.

The waterfall originates from an underground spring, with flow rates peaking during winter and spring.

Access is granted via a trail slightly over one mile in length that ascends 600 feet to the summit of the falls.

2. Wahkeena Falls, Columbia River Highway

The trail leading past Wahkeena Falls is well-traveled and for good reason, as these majestic, tiered falls rise to a height of 242 feet.

Its name, meaning “most beautiful” in Yakama, is quite appropriate.

While Multnomah may receive more attention, Wahkeena is a strong competitor in beauty.

Multiple viewpoints are available for visitors to capture stunning photographs.

A picnic area, complete with a shelter, is located slightly north of the highway and features a stone fireplace for winter use.

3. Punch Bowl Falls, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Punch Bowl Falls is situated along Eagle Creek.

Recently, the trail has been modified due to the collapse of sizable boulders.

This scenic path can be traversed through forests and alongside cliffs, making it suitable for families and pets.

Visitors should remain attentive to potential rockfalls, keeping close together.

While walking, breathtaking views come into sight, and the falls themselves, measuring 35 feet in height and 10 feet in width, are remarkable.

The powerful flow cascades down a narrow channel into a bowl below, giving it its name.

4. Metlako Falls, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Metlako Falls is the first waterfall you will encounter on the Eagle Creek Trail.

In recent years, the waters have gained popularity amongst kayakers, despite the falls being too challenging to navigate due to a drop over 100 feet.

The most favorable viewing point is accessible via a spur off the trail.

This four-mile trail is open year-round, with optimal fluidity during the winter and spring.

The hike is relatively easy, reaching the cascades after approximately one and a half miles, making it suitable for a family outing.

5. Latourell Falls, Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway

Setting off from the Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway, Latourell Falls is the first waterfall encountered.

With a height of 224 feet, the water cascading over the basalt face is indeed awe-inspiring.

The falls feed into the Columbia River, and their stunning scenery has attracted many renowned photographers, enhanced by the yellow lichen clinging to the cliffs.

As the seasons progress, the flow diminishes, making spring the ideal time for a visit.

6. Abiqua Falls, Scott Mills

The journey to Abiqua Falls along a relatively straightforward trail can pose challenges, yet the reward is well worth the effort.

This destination may not suit a family outing, but those who persist in reaching Abiqua Falls will be greatly rewarded, especially during peak flow.

You may encounter steep descents and ascents to navigate around logs that obstruct the path.

Upon arrival, water cascades dramatically into a large splash pool.

The most favorable viewing area lies on the rocks extending into the pool.

7. South Falls, Silver Creek State Park

South Falls is located in the foothills of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains.

Given its close proximity to the state capital, Salem, it has emerged as a popular day trip destination.

The park spans over 9,000 acres, with these falls as its centerpiece.

Everywhere you turn, there are opportunities for exquisite photographs; if you cherish nature and refreshing air, this park is perfect for you.

South Falls drops nearly 180 feet in a single column off a ledge.

Visitors can walk behind the waterfall where the rock has eroded away.

8. White River Falls, White River Falls State Park

White River Falls remains relatively undiscovered, attracting significantly fewer visitors than many other sites in Oregon.

Located a short distance along a trail leading to an old hydroelectric plant that operated for a century until the Dalles Dam was established in 1960, these falls on the Deschutes River cascade 90 feet in two tiers and serve as an appealing spot for hikers, bikers, and anglers.

The park operates from mid-March through fall and is closed during winter.

9. Watson Falls, Douglas County

If the family is comfortable with a climb, these striking falls are situated less than a mile from the parking area.

Watson Falls boasts a remarkable height of 272 feet, with water plunging onto a moss-covered base.

Numerous opportunities for photography exist, particularly at the nearby bridges.

Activities such as fishing, biking, hiking, and camping are prevalent around the North Umpqua River and its extensive trail.

This trail, ideal for another day, stretches almost 80 miles.

Whitewater sections of the river create excitement for rafters.

10. Sahalie Falls, Willamette National Forest

Sahalie Falls is the first of three waterfalls along the McKenzie River and also claims the title of the highest.

These cascades were featured in the Disney film “Homeward Bound.” There has been much debate regarding their exact height, with kayaking experts estimating about 70 feet, which is half of the claims made by others.

Conveniently, parking is available very close to the falls, minimizing the need for extensive walking.

A family-friendly 2.5-mile loop trail allows for enjoyable exercise during your visit.

11. Sweet Creek Falls, Siuslaw National Forest

Comprising four tiers, Sweet Creek Falls boasts a total drop of 70 feet; however, they are significantly more impressive than that numerical estimate implies.

The picturesque setting, enriched with trees, ferns, and moss, enhances its appeal.

Autumn is arguably the prime season for a visit.

Accessing the park incurs no parking fee, and the trail necessitates a 350-foot ascent to reach the falls.

There are four distinct trails that pass the cascades, with the most direct route being less than half a mile.

Visitors can also wade into the creek’s cool waters, though caution is advised due to slippery rocks.

12. Upper Downing Creek Falls, Salem

The only concern along the easy trail to Upper Downing Creek Falls is the potential slipperiness of the rocks.

This location presents an ideal family outing, as the round trip measures slightly over half a mile.

Water cascades from a cubic rock structure, with spills occasionally flowing on all four surfaces.

With a height of 32 feet, the strongest flow typically occurs after the spring snowmelt.

Even in peak summer, the falls remain impressively active.

13. Majestic Falls, McDowell Creek Falls Park

Majestic Falls is the largest of the four prominent waterfalls at McDowell Creek, located within the eponymous park.

A good photograph of these 39-foot falls is easily obtainable from the observation deck as the water courses down into a canyon.

These falls are idyllic for year-round visits, though summer tends to bring reduced flow.

In the fall, the vibrant colors of maple leaves enhance the breathtaking scenery.

All four waterfalls are accessible via the same trail, requiring minimal walking distance.

14. Lake Creek Falls, Blachly

This nature-oriented recreational area draws numerous summer visitors and is accessible throughout the year.

Several cascades wind through a gorge en route to Triangle Lake, while a natural slide offers a delightful place for a leisurely day.

Visitors should bring towels and picnics, but it’s imperative to take their litter with them when departing.

The parking area is located about a mile away, and pets are welcome if kept leashed.

Additionally, alcohol consumption is prohibited within the area.

15. Ki-a-Kuts Falls, Washington County

These falls along the Tualatin River commemorate the last Chief of the Atfalati Indians, a branch of the Kalapuya.

Framed by basalt columns and cliffs, visitors who dare to tackle the challenging path to reach them will find the experience rewarding.

It is essential to wear well-supported hiking boots and carry a backpack with sustenance and hydration.

Visitors should not anticipate a cell phone signal in this secluded area, as it was only discovered in 1993.