Cool Off This Summer With A Visit To These 7 Oregon Waterfalls
By Sarah McCosham|Published June 24, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Here in Oregon, summer seems to happen instantaneously, and you’ll suddenly find yourself sweating bullets while hiking your favorite trail. Happily, we have an abundance of options for staying cool *and* enjoying our favorite outdoor recreation… 238 options, to be exact! With 238 named waterfalls across the state, Oregon is flush with flowing cascades, many of which also double as swimming holes. Cool off this summer with a visit to these seven Oregon waterfalls, all of which offer refreshing waters and resplendent scenery.
A visit to Hug Point State Recreation Site absolutely needs to be on your Oregon summer bucket list. This waterfall beach in Oregon is a standout, and features a glorious, 15-foot waterfall that cascades down a basalt drop-off along the Oregon Coast. Come, swim, and revel in Oregon's splendor!
Multnomah Falls gets the spotlight in Columbia River Gorge, but this lesser-known cascade is equally wondrous. Surrounded by verdant green foliage and moss-covered boulders, Wahclella Falls is a vision. The blue waters plunge into a cerulean pool that's simply perfect for dipping your toes in on a hot summer's day.
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3. Cavitt Creek Falls - North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River
Cavitt Creek Falls is a beloved Oregon waterfall swimming hole. Surrounded by lush forest, the turquoise swimming hole at the base of the small Cavitt Creek cascade is an inviting oasis when temperatures rise!
This 54-foot cascade is quite spectacular to see in person, with the water flowing fluidly down the basalt canyon walls. The deep-blue pool at its base is cool and calm, and downright irresistible after a sweaty hike!
Wildwood Falls is located along the Row River, south of the Dorena Covered Bridge. The falls cascade 15 feet over the basalt cliffs into a large basin, which is a favorite swimming spot in Oregon. Simply put, it's a delightful place to go for a dip!
6. Steelhead Falls - Deschutes Canyon/Steelhead Falls Wilderness Study Area
Steelhead Falls is a hidden gem of a waterfall near Bend. This gorgeous cascade pours into a round, blue basin, which is a picture-perfect natural swimming area!
7. Tamolitch Blue Pool - Willamette National Forest
We saved the best for last: Tamolitch Blue Pool. For a truly amazing Oregon day trip adventure, take the McKenzie River Trail to Tamolitch Blue Pool. The cascade and its cobalt waters are like something from a fairytale, and it's easy to see why this spot is such a perennial favorite.
What are your favorite Oregon waterfalls to visit during the summer? Share your top spots to cool off in the comments below!
For another refreshing option in the Beaver State, be sure to check out the natural swimming hole at Hood River Waterfront Park!
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