24 Breathtaking Waterfalls You’ll Find in Oregon

There’s a reason the Pacific Northwest carries the #pnwonderland hashtag, and that’s because, frankly, this region is the most wondrous and wonderful in the country.

Home to temperate rainforests, old-growth forests, majestic mountains, commanding canyons, and resplendent rivers, the Pacific Northwest is an outdoor paradise for nature lovers. But the region’s most noteworthy natural feature is, hands down, its waterfalls. Of the three states that comprise the PNW, Oregon has the most waterfalls. Without further ado, here is a selection of the best waterfalls in Oregon:

Best Waterfalls in Oregon

Home to over 200 named waterfalls, Oregon is a waterfall chaser’s paradise. The Columbia River Gorge is home to some 90 waterfalls on the Oregon side alone, and the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park packs 10 incredible cascades in its 7.4 miles.

The Beaver State has waterfalls on its beaches and falls in its forests, which are so lovely that they look like scenes straight out of a Tolkien tale. And, of course, Oregon lays claim to mighty Multnomah Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country.

Here at Only In Your State, our insatiable appetite for wanderlust keeps us going, and waterfall chasing is easily our favorite way to satisfy our adventure-seeking souls. And in Oregon, unlimited adventures–and waterfalls—await.

Ready to explore more waterfalls beyond the state border? From jaw-dropping cascades to swimmable emerald ponds, there are countless magnificent waterfalls found across the United States to explore.

1. Multnomah Falls – Oregon’s Most Iconic Two-Tier Waterfall

• Location: Multnomah Falls, Oregon 97014
• Accessibility: To control the crowded parking lot during the popular summer months, you must purchase tickets in advance if you plan to drive. This does not apply to visitors who arrive via shuttle or bicycle.
• Fun fact: According to Native American lore, Multnomah Falls began to flow after a young princess sacrificed herself to prevent a disease from spreading to her tribe.

Hailed as the Crown Jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge is home to over 90 waterfalls and is the largest natural scenic area in the United States. Within this wonderland, about 30 minutes east of Portland, is the PNW’s most iconic cascade: Oregon’s Multnomah Falls. This 620-foot-tall roaring waterfall draws more than 2 million visitors annually to witness its power and beauty.

Fed by underground springs from nearby Larch Mountain, as well as snowmelt and rainwater, this iconic cascade flows year-round. However, the flow is strongest in spring and winter (the waterfall is known to freeze during winter, creating an otherworldly spectacle).

The most popular way to experience Multnomah is from the Benson Bridge, which spans Multnomah Creek between the two cascades of Multnomah Falls and can be reached via a 5-minute paved trail. More experienced hikers can continue 2.4 miles to the top of the falls and back or continue on the Larch Mountain Trail for 6 miles to get a fantastic view of the Columbia River Gorge.

Afterward, we recommend checking out the Multnomah Falls Lodge Restaurant for a bite to eat or setting up at one of the five picnic areas available on site.

2. South Falls – Walk Behind This Famous Oregon Cascade

• Location: 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, OR 97385
• Accessibility: Trailhead begins at the South Falls Day Use Area. Upper Viewpoint is easily accessible and 0.2 miles from the parking area.
• Fun fact: Although Silver Falls State Park contains 10 waterfalls, none of them are actually named Silver Falls! South Falls is the most popular and is often mistakenly called Silver Falls.

Silver Falls State Park is one of Oregon's premier state parks. It is best known for the Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.4-mile hiking trail that passes through 10 different waterfalls. The most popular and most accessible of these is, without a doubt, the 177-foot-tall South Falls.

Your waterfall adventure will begin at the South Falls Day Use Area, with ample parking, a cafe, a lodge, and restrooms. From there, it’s a short quarter-mile hike along the Canyon Rim Trail to get to the upper viewpoint. However, if you continue along the path, you will see what makes South Falls truly special; it’s one of the few waterfalls that you can walk behind and see from an incredible vantage point. From there, if you want a longer hike, you can visit Lower South Falls via the 2.8-mile Maple Ridge Loop.

We recommend making a day of it! The South Falls Day Use Area has picnic shelters, a playground, a dog park, a creek, and more to explore. At night, you might consider staying at the main campground in Silver Falls State Park, which has 43 tent sites, 14 cabins, and 48 RV sites.

What are the Tallest Waterfalls in Oregon?

Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, at an impressive 620 feet. Wahclella Falls and Latourell Falls are two of Multnomah’s Gorge neighbors, and at 350 feet and 249 feet tall, respectively, they’re some of the tallest in the state. Located on Oregon’s Highway of Waterfalls, Watson Falls is 272 feet tall and is actually the state’s third-highest waterfall.

3. Munson Creek Falls – One of Oregon’s Tallest Hidden Gems

• Height: 315 feet tall
• Accessibility: The 0.5-mile Munson Creek Falls Trail is considered easy.
• Fun fact: Munson Creek is a vital salmon habitat, and you’ll often see these boisterous fish spawning at the pool of the falls.

The Oregon Coast often gets left out of the waterfall equation, but it’s actually home to some of the most wondrous waterfalls in the state. Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site is located just inland from the Oregon Coast near the town of Tillamook, making it a great stop during a coastal road trip. It’s here where you’ll find the eponymous Oregon Coast Range. This coastal mountain range houses myriad waterfalls, including the spectacular Munson Creek Falls at Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site.

At 315 feet tall, Munson Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Oregon Coast Range. It’s a portrait of sublime and beguiling beauty. The trail to discover this hidden waterfall is as magical as the falls themselves, winding through a verdant, old-growth forest.

And at just a one-mile round-trip, the eponymous Munson Creek Falls Trail is easily one of the easiest and most rewarding waterfall hikes in Oregon.

Top Waterfall Hikes in Oregon

Waterfall chasing is more than just a hobby; it’s a worldview and way of life. And while most waterfall chasers would happily take this activity on as a full-time job, there’s the pesky business of actual full-time jobs and other adult responsibilities. Not to fear, however, as many of Oregon’s waterfall hikes are perfect day-long treks or even easy afternoon adventures.

Some, like mighty Multnomah, require no hiking at all to view! The state’s myriad waterfall trails vary in length and accessibility. Still, you’ll find that many of the state’s finest falls are well within reach for adventurers of all ages and abilities.

4. Trail of Ten Falls – Oregon’s Legendary Waterfall Loop

• Length: 7.4 miles
• Popularity: One of the most popular waterfall hikes in Oregon.
• Location: Silver Falls State Park, considered the "crown jewel" of Oregon State Parks.

With over 230 falls in Oregon, there are certainly ample opportunities for waterfall chasing, but the Trail of Ten Falls is on a whole other level entirely. As its name suggests, this trail features 10 glorious waterfalls that hikers can walk past, under, and around for a wholly immersive experience unlike any other. Clocking in at just over seven miles, the Trail of Ten Falls is undoubtedly an all-day hike, but it’s worth each and every mile.

On this route through the lush foothills of the Cascades, you'll encounter at least 10 falls, including South Falls, North Falls, and Middle North Falls. All three exceed 100 feet in height and allow hikers to walk beneath their waters. If you’re looking for the best waterfall hike in the U.S., this is it.

5. Drift Creek Falls – Suspension Bridge Hike to a Scenic Falls

• Popularity: Very Popular
• Location: Drift Creek Wilderness area of the Siuslaw National Forest
• Fun Fact: These falls can be viewed both from their base and from above via a 240-foot-long suspension bridge.

Drift Creek Falls proves that the journey is just as marvelous as the destination. The Drift Creek Falls Trail is a triple threat of a trek featuring verdant, old-growth forests, a 240-foot swinging bridge, and a 75-foot waterfall. At just a three-mile round-trip, this trail is the Goldilocks of hikes, too: not too short and not too long, not too steep and not too advanced.

It’s the perfect morning adventure, especially after a healthy rain when the falls are at their most rushing and resplendent. And if you can stomach the 100-foot-tall swinging bridge, you’ll be rewarded with the very best views of the majestic Drift Creek Falls. However, it's important to not that the suspension bridge can sway slightly when multiple people cross. Visitors with a fear of heights may prefer viewing the waterfall from the nearby observation areas.

6. Tamanawas Falls – Stunning Waterfall at Mount Hood

• Location: Mt. Hood National Forest
• Accessibility: This 3.8-mile trail is rated moderate.
• Fun Fact: "Tamanawas" is a Chinook word that means "friendly guardian spirit."

The Tamanawas Falls Trail is located in one of the most glorious parts of Mt. Hood National Forest, running parallel to the Hood River in the majestic Cascade Mountains. This 3.8-mile trail follows Cold Spring Creek through a verdant forest landscape that looks like something Tolkien conjured, complete with a charming footbridge, sun-soaked tree canopies, and moss-covered rocks. The trail passes several small falls, culminating in the glorious 100-foot-tall, 40-foot-wide waterfall known as Tamanawas Falls.

The name “Tamanawas” comes from the Chinook language, historically spoken by Indigenous peoples of the Columbia River region.

Easy Waterfall Hikes In Oregon

Waterfall chasing is a popular activity in the Beaver State. Still, if you’re not up for a lengthy chase, there are plenty of easy and accessible waterfall hikes in Oregon for beginners and those who don’t have days to devote to the trails.

The following are some of the most straightforward and accessible waterfall hikes in Oregon: scenic treks, wondrous falls, and some of the most bucket-list-worthy adventures in the PNW.

7. Bridal Veil Falls – A Short Trail to a Gorgeous Gorge Waterfall

• Popularity: Very Popular
• Height: This two-tier cascade is 118 feet tall.
• Location: The Bridal Veil Falls Trailhead is located just off the Historic Columbia River Highway. Heading east on Interstate 84, take exit 28 and then turn right onto the Columbia River Highway. Drive for about 0.3 miles, and on the right side of the road, you'll see the parking lot and trailhead

Another Columbia River Gorge wonder (of course!), beautiful Bridal Veil Falls is the perfect destination for beginner waterfall chasers. The hike to these falls is just half a mile long and well-paved, making it easy to navigate. A viewing platform located in front of the cascade provides the perfect vantage point for Bridal Veil Falls, a 118-foot-tall natural wonder that drops in two perfect cascades. While Bridal Veil isn't the tallest in the Gorge, the payoff for such a short hike is pretty extraordinary!

8. Henline Falls – A Hidden Forest Waterfall Near Opal Creek

• Popularity: Hidden Gem
• Location: Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area
• Accessibility: Take the Henline Falls Trailhead, which winds along a lovely old forest road through a dense, emerald-green forest. You'll keep left to branch onto the Henline Falls Trail #3348.

Dark and mysterious, the hike to Henline Falls follows a forest trail that’s straight out of a Brothers Grimm fantasy. Tucked away in the Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area is the little-known Henline Falls Trail, a 1.8-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a stunning waterfall of the same name, as well as the abandoned Silver King Mine.

Intrepid explorers can duck into this eerie, fascinating gold mine, though a closed metal gate blocks the tunnel after about 60 feet. It’s an unsettling relic of a bygone time that only adds to the allure of this adventure.

Back on the trail, verdant, mossy forest and old-growth trees form an eerily quiet, a bit uncanny, yet positively sublime canopy. Happening upon Henline Falls, a commanding 125-foot cascade, is a wondrous experience that should be enjoyed slowly before turning back.

9. Niagara Falls – Oregon’s Own “Niagara Falls” Surprise

• Popularity: Very Popular. Avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning or mid-week.
• Dog Friendly: Yes! There are even some off-leash areas along the trail.
• Accessibility: This 1.4-mile, out-and-back trail is rated "moderate" due to some challenging terrain.

By now, it’s abundantly clear that one need not venture to New York’s Niagara Falls to behold the country’s most wondrous waterfalls; you’ll find falls aplenty in Oregon! The Beaver State is even home to its very own Niagara Falls, which you’ll find hiding in the Siuslaw National Forest along the Pheasant Creek Falls and Niagara Falls Trail. This 1.4-mile-long, out-and-back trail leads to not one but two fabulous falls, each over 100 feet in height.

Even with this dynamic duo, the trek is as amazing as the destination, with the trail winding through old-growth forests and crossing four wooden footbridges. As for the cascades, the falls are located within striking distance of one another; often confused, Pheasant Creek Falls comes first, with Niagara Falls found near the end of the trail.

Are There Any No-Hike Waterfalls in Oregon?

For those who simply want to behold one of Mother Nature’s most dazzling wonders – without any sort of trek–there are some breathtaking waterfalls in Oregon with no hiking required!

In addition to mighty Multnomah Falls, the Columbia River Gorge is home to numerous no-hike waterfalls, including Wahkeena Falls and Shepperd’s Dell Falls. And hiding on the McKenzie River, Sahalie Falls is a 100-foot-tall stunner that will take your breath away.

Looking for more no-hike falls in Oregon? Read on…

10. Salt Creek Falls – One of Oregon’s Tallest Drive-Up Falls

• Location: Willamette National Forest
• Fun Fact: Willamette Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the United States by volume.
• Accessibility: Very; the viewing platform for these falls is just a 50-foot stroll from the parking area. The path and platform are wheelchair-accessible, and the railings were designed with wheelchair sight lines in mind.

One of the tallest and most impressive waterfalls in Oregon is also one of the most accessible. Located in the wondrous Willamette National Forest, Salt Creek Falls is a 286-foot stunner that tumbles in a free fall into a cobalt pool below.

It’s a magnificent display of Mother Nature’s prowess that will leave visitors in awe and wonder. The best part is that this breathtaking beauty is truly accessible to all; it’s just a 50-foot walk to the wheelchair-friendly viewing platform, where a dazzling display unfolds before your eyes. The observation site also offers restrooms and picnic tables, so you can stay and enjoy this sublime experience as long as you like.

11. Ponytail Falls – Walk Behind This Unique Gorge Waterfall

• Location: Columbia River Gorge
• Alias: Upper Horsetail Falls
• Popularity: Given this waterfall's accessibility, it can be quite crowded, so we advise going early in the week for a quieter experience.

What if we told you there was a waterfall in Oregon you could walk behind… and that accessing it required little more than a half-mile walk? This is the magic of Ponytail Falls, a beguiling cascade nestled in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. This equine-named wonder is a magical waterfall with a trail circling behind it, offering explorers the unique opportunity to stand directly behind its 75-foot curtain.

Accessing Ponytail Falls requires little more than a half-mile trek that’s genuinely more "stroll" than "hike." Once you’ve sufficiently ogled this stunning scene, simply turn back and retrace your steps to the Horsetail Falls Trailhead. Of course, for those who feel compelled to continue on, the entire 2.6-mile loop trail is quite lovely.

Oregon Waterfalls You Can Swim In

In Oregon, chasing waterfalls is quite literally an immersive experience. Because waterfall adventures aren’t limited to the trails, there are myriad waterfalls in Oregon where intrepid explorers can actually swim in the basins. And during the dog days of a PNW summer, there’s simply nothing more refreshing than taking a dip in Mother Nature’s most glorious natural pools.

From rushing, rapid-filled whirlpools to calm and placid pools, swimming in Oregon’s wondrous waterfalls is truly an adventure for your bucket list. While visitors sometimes swim near the basin, swimming conditions can change quickly due to strong currents and cold water temperatures.

12. Toketee Falls – Oregon’s Most Photogenic Blue Pool Falls

• Fun Fact: Toketee is the Chinook word for "graceful."
• Accessibility: Very accessible. The entire hike is less than a mile and is one of the most accessible waterfall trails in Oregon.
• Getting there: The trailhead for Toketee Falls is located near Roseburg, Oregon. Take Highway 138 and turn north at milepost 58.6 onto Forest Road 34 (AKA Toketee-Rigdon Road). Once you've crossed the first bridge, you'll see the Toketee Falls Trailhead parking lot on the left.

A wonder of intense grace and grandeur, Toketee Falls is located on the North Umpqua River in the Umpqua National Forest. It is carved through ancient black basalt adorned with emerald-green leaves.

The falls themselves feature a 28-foot upper tier that plunges into a pool flanked by a deep alcove, followed by an 85-foot plunge where the water pours endlessly into a large pool. The entire scene unfolds in something of a dream sequence, and accessing this enchanting oasis requires a quick-and-easy hike that’s less than a mile-long round trip.

After just about half a mile, you'll reach the observation platform, which offers stunning views of the waterfall. And if you feel inspired to take the plunge, the basin of Toketee Falls is cold and refreshing, an experience you won’t likely forget!

13. White River Falls – Historic Ruins Beside a Powerful Cascade

• Location: White River Falls State Park
• Popularity: Not crowded. This is one of the lesser-known Oregon State Parks, and it’s definitely a hidden gem!
• Fun Facts: White River Falls (and the river for which it’s named) is the site of a former hydroelectric plant.

The sheer, unbridled power of nature will take you by surprise, and it’s often associated with destructive disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes. But in White River Falls State Park, Mother Nature’s prowess is displayed in the most sublime ways, with the headlining White Falls pouring out into the eponymous North Oregon River.

White River Falls plunges 90 feet over black basalt cliffs, thundering into the river below with a force that can be seen, heard, and felt. This natural wonder caught the attention of Pacific Power and Light Company in the early 20th century, which used it to generate hydroelectric power for Wasco and Sherman counties from 1910 until 1960. Parts of the abandoned plant still remain, adding to the allure of the excursion to the falls.

Be prepared to get wet on this 0.9-mile hike–and not from swimming. The trail follows the White River straight into the cerulean pool at its base. Powerful and commanding, this is one waterfall in Oregon worth chasing!

14. Steelhead Falls – A Desert Waterfall With a Swimming Hole

• Location: Central Oregon’s High Desert, along the Deschutes River
• How to Find: Steelhead Falls can be a bit tricky to find, but it’s well worth the effort. The falls are located north of Terrebonne, Oregon, on land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The Steelhead Falls Trailhead and Campground are located at SW River Rd, Terrebonne, OR, 97760.
• Park Info: This park is open year-round with no fees. Overnight camping sites are available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Pets are permitted here, too.

This beautiful gem near Bend is a prime example of Oregon’s "high desert" falls; it’s a resplendent natural wonder that will challenge your very definition of a "desert." A 2-mile,out-and-back trail will take you to Steelhead Falls, a breathtaking beauty that plunges into a cobalt-blue pool in the Deschutes River. In the spring, the wildflowers surrounding the falls are spectacular; in the summer, Oregonians love going for a dip in this natural waterfall swimming pool, which is the most glorious and wholly accurate "desert mirage" you’ll ever experience.

Though finding the trailhead is a bit tricky (directions are available from the BLM), the trail to the falls is just half a mile long and is a relatively easy, accessible hike.

Best Road Trips To Oregon Waterfalls

America is a country of explorers. This spirit of adventure runs deep in the U.S., which comprises 50 wholly unique states, each boasting spectacular scenery and incredible natural wonders.

This drive to explore is, quite literally, a drive to explore, and the combination of a scenic road trip and a waterfall-chasing adventure is something everyone should experience. In Oregon, there are some scenic routes (and even an official Highway of Waterfalls!) where one can visit myriad majestic falls in one fell swoop.

The following are some of our favorite Oregon waterfall road trips designed to fully enjoy the Beaver State’s waterfall wonderland.

15. Historic Columbia River Highway – The Legendary “Highway of Waterfalls”

• Alias: "Oregon’s Highway of Waterfalls" is actually the nickname for Highway 138.
• Length: This scenic adventure spans 172 miles through South-Central Oregon between Roseburg and Diamond Lake.
• Fun Fact: You’ll discover over 15 waterfalls along this scenic highway!

For a scenic tour de force of some of the finest falls in Oregon, you’ll want to hop on what’s quite literally known as the Highway of Waterfalls. Highway 138 is a gorgeous road that traverses South-Central Oregon alongside the North Umpqua River, winding past dozens of hiking trails, campgrounds, and, of course, waterfalls. Pullouts abound along this 172-mile stretch of road, providing epic viewpoints for some of the state’s most incredible cascades.

Trip highlights include Toketee Falls, which cascades 120 feet into a gorgeous blue basin and is accessed via a short walk to a viewing platform; Watson Falls, a 272-foot-tall stunner; and the hidden Susan Creek Falls, which is found at the end of a 0.75-mile hike. Whether you drive part or all of this scenic highway, you’ll witness some of Oregon’s very best waterfalls.

16. Columbia River Gorge – A Waterfall Lover’s Dream Destination

• By the Numbers: A treasure trove of falls, there are over 90 waterfalls on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge!
• Accessibility: Many of the waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge require little to no hiking to access; visitors can see Multnomah Falls from the eponymous lodge parking lot, and beautiful Bridal Veil Falls is just a half-mile hike away.
• Popularity: Very Popular. Showstoppers such as Multnomah can be incredibly busy, so it’s best to visit mid-week and/or in the morning or explore some of the Gorge’s lesser-known falls, such as Dead Point Falls and Punchbowl Falls.

For those with an insatiable waterfall wanderlust, there’s nowhere better than the Columbia River Gorge. A grand 90-mile expanse that’s widely considered one of the most pristine places in the PNW (and the planet), the Columbia River Gorge is an area with immense historic, cultural, and scenic significance.

The largest designated National Scenic Area in the country, there’s no better place to go waterfall chasing. It’s the very definition of a #pnwonderland; bisected by a commanding canyon and resplendent river, this PNW paradise is flush with forests, foliage, and falls.

Lots and lots of waterfalls. From Latourell Falls and Bridal Veil Falls to Wahclella Falls and (of course) Multnomah Falls, one could easily spend days exploring the 90+ falls found on Oregon’s side of the Gorge – and that’s a task we’d happily take on.

Given this region’s resplendent reputation, many of the waterfalls are quite popular; as such, we recommend planning trips to individual waterfalls during the week and/or early mornings.

17. Cavitt Creek Falls – A Quiet Forest Cascade Worth the Drive

• Directions: From Roseburg, head east on Hwy 138 for 16.5 miles. Turn right on Little River Road, then head south for 6.7 miles. From here, turn right onto New Bridge Road, which turns into Cavitt Creek Road, and continue three miles to the recreation site.
• Know Before You Go: Pets are not allowed in the swimming areas but can stay in the campground area, provided they are leashed. The natural pool is open year-round, and the campground is open between late May and late September.
• Popularity: This waterfall-fed pool is very popular during the summer. If you’re into fishing, it’s a wonderful and relatively quiet place to drop a line in the winter.

One of our favorite hidden gems in Oregon, Cavitt Creek Falls is a stunning recreation site known for its pristine waters. These include a swimming and fishing hole, a babbling swimming stream, and show-stopping falls. The natural pool at Cavitt Creek is fed by a series of small waterfalls, and these gentle and crisp waters are perfect for swimming on a hot day in the PNW.

This site is so beautiful that you may not want to leave; happily, there are 10 non-reservable campsites nearby for just $20 per night. Campsite amenities include an area with tables and a grill, drinking water, vault restrooms, and a stairway to the swimming area. If you’re looking to explore more of this sublime site, the nearby 1.2-mile Wolf Creek Falls Trail follows a picturesque stream through an old-growth forest and culminates at a two-tier cascade.

Best Waterfalls near Portland

Located within striking distance of the Columbia River Gorge, Portland is well-positioned for epic PNW waterfall chasing. But the Gorge isn’t the only waterfall wonderland near Portland; some of the state’s most extraordinary falls are within striking distance of Oregon’s biggest and most bustling city – including some incredible coastal cascades, too.

Some of the best waterfalls to visit near Portland are the oft-overlooked wonders, including Tunnel Falls and Ramona Falls. Mighty Multnomah, of course, is the most popular waterfall near Portland, and while it draws significant crowds, it’s definitely one for your bucket list.

18. Latourell Falls – One of the Gorge’s Most Photogenic Falls

• Directions: The Latourell Falls Trailhead is located just off the Columbia River Highway.
• Accessibility: This waterfall is one of the easiest to access in the Gorge, requiring little more than a well-paved, two-mile hike.
• Trivia: At 249 feet tall, Latourell Falls is the third-tallest waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge, after Multnomah Falls (620 feet) and Elowah Falls (289 feet).

In terms of proximity, Latourell Falls is the closest waterfall to Portland, and you'll find it located in the wondrous Columbia River Gorge. It's just a 2.4-mile loop to take in this astonishing view. If you have a soft spot for charming footbridges, the Latourell Falls Loop Trail boasts four different wooden bridges, making for an enchanting afternoon adventure that’s fairy-tale perfect.

Given the brevity of this waterfall hike and the accessibility of its trailhead, Latourell Falls can draw rather large crowds. So if you’d like to avoid this, it’s best to visit during the week or early on weekends.

19. Willamette Falls – The Massive Waterfall Near Portland

• Did You Know: Did You Know? Willamette Falls is the second-largest waterfall in the U.S.
• Accessibility: Very; two viewpoints alongside Interstate 205 or Highway 99E provide perfect panoramas of the falls.
• History: This fall has been home to myriad PNW industries. From the Willamette Falls Electric Company and original Oregon City Paper Manufacturing Co. to the most recent Blue Heron Paper Company, which closed in 2011, the power of Willamette Falls has long been recognized and harnessed.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path waterfall to chase near Portland, Willamette Falls is a true hidden gem. Located in Oregon City, it is a horseshoe-shaped waterfall over 1,500 feet wide and 40 feet high, making it one of the largest in the country.

In the 20th century, its sheer strength attracted the attention of the Willamette Falls Electric Company, which built a hydroelectric power plant at the falls to harness its energy. Two viewpoints provide expansive views of the falls, and an on-site museum lets visitors learn all about this historically significant and superlative cascade.

20. Wahkeena Falls – A Lush Multi-Tier Waterfall Hike

• Height: Wahkeena Falls is 242 feet tall, making it one of the tallest in the Columbia River Gorge.
• Popularity: At just two miles long and located within the Gorge, Wahkeena Falls is a much-visited attraction.
• Directions: Take the Wahkeena Falls Trail, a two-mile trek that leads to two waterfalls!

Deep in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, the Wahkeena Falls Trail is a veritable waterfall twofer. This accessible, two-mile trek leads to both the eponymous Wahkeena Falls and the enchanting Fairy Falls. It’s a wonderfully immersive experience, with the trail winding through old-growth forests and getting so close to the cascades that the powerful spray of the falls can be felt much of the year.

Once you reach Wahkeena Falls, a bench provides an excellent viewpoint and spot to catch your breath. From here, you’ll navigate a series of switchbacks (and some incredible views!) as you ascend the trail’s 800-foot elevation gain. At the top viewpoint, the trail turns to dirt and travels through a narrow canyon; from here, you’ll hear and then see the fantastic Fairy Falls. This trail is a real-life fairy tale, and it’s just a stone’s throw from Oregon’s largest city.

Oregon Coast Waterfalls

The Oregon Coast often gets left out of the waterfall equation, but it’s actually home to some of the most wondrous cascades in the state. This region, where earth and land meet, is absolutely breathtaking, with tempestuous Pacific waters and ancient volcanic cliffs–truly sublime scenes.

On these rough and rocky beaches, water flows and sprays every which way and direction, creating tide pools, whirlpools, churning inlets, and perpetually flowing, gloriously cascading waterfalls.

21. Hug Point Falls – A Beach Waterfall Flowing Into the Ocean

• Popularity: This is one of the most popular summertime destinations on the Oregon Coast. During the colder months, however, it’s equally lovely and much less crowded.
• Directions: Located just five miles south of Cannon Beach, Hug Point State Recreation Site offers easy beach access, a designated parking lot, restrooms, and a picnic area.
• Fun Fact: Once accessible only by stagecoach, the old stagecoach trail is now open to visitors. It boasts an incredible view of Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock!

Oregon is known for its abundance of waterfalls and 363 miles of pristine Pacific shoreline, rife with some of the best beaches in the country. But you generally don’t find these two wonders together. But this is Oregon we’re talking about, a place of almost incomprehensible natural beauty. So, of course, if there’s a waterfall beach, you’ll find it in Oregon.

And that’s exactly what awaits at Hug Point State Recreation Site: Hug Point Falls, a winsome waterfall on its own slice of the Oregon Coast. This Oregon State Recreation Site is one of its most incredible treasures: a real-life beachside oasis with sea caves and an incredible coastal cascade.

Within this fantasy, Hug Point Falls is a 15-foot waterfall gently cascading down a sandstone drop-off. What makes this waterfall even more unique is that the ocean tides limit its viewing; the falls can only be safely accessed at low tide, so be sure to check the Oregon State Parks website’s tide chart before you go. It’s worth the advanced planning, however, during low tide, you'll discover pools teeming with ocean treasures: sea anemones, starfish, muscles, and even crabs!

22. Short Sand Beach Falls – A Hidden Coastal Forest Waterfall

• Location: Short Sand Beach is within Oswald West State Park, which Travel + Leisure named one of the 50 Best Parks Around the U.S.
• Fun Fact: During high tide, the waterfall at Short Sand Beach empties straight into the ocean.
• Directions: Drive to the Oswald West State Park, Arch Cape, OR, 97102 parking lot. The Short Sand Beach Trail is an easy half-mile stroll from the parking lot to the beach.

You’ll find the glorious oasis of Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, a stunning spot on the northern Oregon Coast. With 2,484 acres stretching four miles along the coastline, this park has much to offer, though it often gets overlooked for its neighbor to the south, Cannon Beach.

Don’t overlook it, however, as Short Sand Beach is home to the beguiling Blumenthal Falls, a coastal cascade trickling down the Oregon Coast's moss-covered cliff sides. Visit after a heavy rainfall, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by a rather impressive and rushing stream; at high tide, the waterfall empties straight into the ocean. No matter when you visit, though, this cascade at Short Sands Beach is the best kind of hidden treasure.

Top Waterfalls near Bend

Central Oregon is a resplendent region full of mountains, forests, and rivers, making it an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Bend certainly benefits from its killer location at the heart of it all. The mighty Deschutes flows quite literally through the town itself, providing some of the best kayaking and river rafting in Oregon—and also, as it were, some fantastic waterfalls to chase.

The Deschutes National Forest envelopes Bend like a hug, and within this region, there are some genuinely epic waterfalls to chase; these are falls that give some of the Columbia River Gorge’s finest a run for their money! And when heavy rains douse the PNW in the spring, Bend’s falls flow faster and more picturesque than ever.

23. Tumalo Falls – Bend’s Most Popular Waterfall View

• Location: The Tumalo Falls Day Use Area within Deschutes National Forest. From Bend, you’ll travel 11.6 miles west on Skyliner's Road (4601), then 2.6 miles west on Forest Road 4603.
• Know Before You Go: This is a very popular site with beautiful views of Tumalo Falls, just minutes from the trailhead. There are places for picnics and access to hiking and mountain-biking trails, but the area can be quite crowded on nice days. The Day Use Area requires a $5/vehicle permit, which can be purchased on-site.
• Stats: The Tumalo Falls Trail features several beautiful waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

While the Columbia River Gorge tends to steal the spotlight in terms of waterfall chasing in Oregon, the Deschutes National Forest is another treasure trove of waterfalls. Located in Central Oregon, this #pnwonderland spans 1.6 million acres and includes a variety of landscapes, ecosystems… and waterfalls.

In fact, it’s here where you’ll find a two-mile trail that leads to a double waterfall and scenic overlook, not to mention one of the best-known falls in the state: Tumalo Falls. This Oregon waterfall is a striking 97-foot wonder that pours into Tumalo Creek in a thunderous, roaring rush. In addition to being a staggering beauty, Tumalo Falls is one of the state’s most accessible waterfalls, too, as it’s visible just a quarter of a mile from the trailhead.

For those not seeking a strenuous hike, there is a scenic overlook at the start of the trail that offers jaw-dropping views of this glorious cascade – and phenomenal photo ops, too. However, if you are up for exploring, you'll find additional falls upstream along Tumalo Creek and its tributary, Bridge Creek, making this a veritable "choose your own" waterfall-chasing adventure in Oregon.

24. Paulina Creek Falls – Twin Waterfalls in a Volcanic Landscape

• Location: The heart of the High Desert of Central Oregon.
• Did You Know: Paulina Creek Falls is actually two separate waterfalls.
• Know Before You Go: The Paulina Falls Trail is open seasonally beginning in June, and you’ll need to purchase a vehicle permit ($5) before visiting; permits are not sold on-site.

Another glorious cascade found in the Deschutes National Forest, this time in the Paulina Falls Day Use Area, Paulina Creek Falls, might be the biggest surprise in the High Desert of Central Oregon. Not only does this waterfall seem to materialize in the midst of volcanic cliffs and severe geological formations, but it also consists of a pair of falls that plunge 80 feet from a jagged outcrop into the rocks below.

A half-mile hike leads to a marvelous overlook for viewing the falls, but you’ll want to time your visit for when the path is actually accessible. It’s a seasonal trail that opens in June. Don’t miss your chance to view this hidden gem; it’s a stunning scene in a stunning place and easily one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon's High Desert.

Summary

There’s no place in the world like Oregon; this PNW state really does have it all. Between its incredible wonders, diverse geography, mild weather, and immense natural splendor, Oregon is the poster child for Mother Nature.

And wrapped up in all of this wonder, touching literally every part of the state, are waterfalls. Wondering how many waterfalls are in Oregon? The answer is 238! Showstopping, superlative, stop-you-in-your-tracks waterfalls. So, whether you’re looking to explore the Oregon Coast or Columbia River Gorge, High Desert, or old-growth forests, one of these epic waterfall chases awaits you in Oregon!

Are you planning your own waterfall adventure in the Beaver State? Use the Only In Your State Itinerary Planner to map out a custom road trip and discover even more hidden gems across Oregon.