Silver Falls State Park in Marion County, approximately 26 miles east of Salem and 55 miles south of Portland, preserves a canyon of basalt columns and old-growth Douglas fir through which the North Fork and South Fork Silver Creek have carved a sequence of ten significant waterfalls within a compact trail system. At 9,200 acres, Silver Falls is Oregon's largest state park. The Trail of Ten Falls — a 7.2-mile loop — links all ten named waterfalls in a single continuous hike, descending into a canyon of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple before looping back to the South Falls Lodge trailhead. The star attraction is South Falls, which plunges 177 feet into a basalt-lined pool and features a carved-behind pathway allowing hikers to walk directly behind the water curtain. North Falls (136 feet), Winter Falls (134 feet), and Double Falls (178 feet — the park's tallest) each offer distinct character. Behind-the-falls pathways at South Falls, Lower South Falls, and North Falls are among the most distinctive waterfall experiences in the Pacific Northwest. The canyon is draped in moss and fern year-round, creating a lush atmosphere that persists even in dry summer months when flow diminishes. The South Falls Lodge, a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps structure, houses a small café, gift shop, and exhibits on the park's history and geology. Parking at the main trailhead fills by 9 AM on summer weekends; day hikers should arrive before 8 AM or after 3 PM to find a space.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open daily 7 AM–9 PM (gates); waterfalls accessible year-round
- Best time
- October–November (fall foliage) and April–June (peak waterfall flow)
Location
20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, OR 97385
44.8776, -122.6529 View on map
Highlights
- Trail of Ten Falls: 7.2-mile loop passing ten named waterfalls including 177-foot South Falls
- Behind-the-falls pathways at South Falls and North Falls: walk directly behind waterfall curtains
- Double Falls at 178 feet: the tallest waterfall in the park, reached via the canyon floor trail
- Old-growth Douglas fir and cedar canyon with moss-draped walls year-round
- 1930s CCC South Falls Lodge with café, exhibits, and park history displays
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 8 AM on summer weekends — the main parking lot fills by 9 AM and the overflow fills soon after
- Wear waterproof footwear; the behind-the-falls pathways spray significantly even in dry months
- The full 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls takes 4–5 hours at a moderate pace; carry sufficient water
- Winter and spring visits offer higher falls volume and vivid mossy greens with far fewer visitors
- Day-use fee is $5/vehicle; the America the Beautiful annual pass is accepted
- Do not skip Lower South Falls — its behind-the-falls walk is one of the most dramatic in the loop
When to visit
April through June for peak waterfall flow and spring greenery. October and November deliver fall maple color and reduced crowds. Weekday visits avoid the intense summer weekend parking competition.
Accessibility
The South Falls viewpoint near the lodge is paved and accessible to wheelchair users. The Trail of Ten Falls involves steep unpaved canyon terrain and is not accessible to mobility devices. Accessible restrooms and parking are available at the main South Falls Lodge trailhead.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Trail of Ten Falls?
The 7.2-mile loop is rated moderate with approximately 700 feet of elevation change. The canyon descent involves some steep sections. It is suitable for reasonably fit adults and older children but is not recommended for young toddlers.
Can visitors see waterfalls without doing the full loop?
Yes. South Falls and Lower South Falls can be reached within a mile of the South Falls Lodge trailhead. This shorter out-and-back takes about an hour and includes behind-the-falls experiences at both.
Is Silver Falls State Park worth visiting in winter?
Yes. Waterfall flows peak in winter and spring, and the canyon's mossy old-growth atmosphere is especially vivid in rain. Crowds are minimal November through March compared to summer weekends.