This Oregon Hiking Trail Takes You Behind 10 Roaring Waterfalls in a Single Day

Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

Known as the “crown jewel” of Oregon’s state parks, this waterfall wonderland offers much more than just beautiful cascades.

Ancient Ocean Floor Turned Into Waterfall Caves

The park sits on land that was once covered by ocean about 26 million years ago. After the water pulled back, lava flows from the Columbia River covered the old seafloor sandstone.

Over time, Silver Creek wore away the soft sandstone under the harder basalt, creating caves and paths behind the waterfalls. Those round holes you see in cave ceilings? They formed when lava hardened around burning trees.

Loggers Cut Trees Here Before It Became A Park

The Kalapuyan Indians first lived in this area, using it mainly for hunting and spiritual purposes. In 1888, settlers created Silver Falls City as a logging town. Photographer June Drake started pushing for park status in the early 1900s.

Though the National Park Service first said no in 1926 because of logging damage, President Franklin Roosevelt made it a park in 1933 during the Great Depression.

Trail of Ten Falls Takes You Past All Waterfalls

The heart of the park is the Trail of Ten Falls, which draws photographers and hikers from everywhere. This 7.2-mile loop takes you through thick forests past ten stunning waterfalls ranging from 27 to 178 feet tall.

As you walk, you’ll go down about 800 feet into the canyon and follow Silver Creek along the forest floor. The trail has earned national recognition for its beauty.

You Can Walk Behind Four Different Waterfalls

You can actually walk behind four different waterfalls at Silver Falls. South Falls is the most popular, with its 177-foot water curtain visible from a natural cave behind it.

Lower South, North, and Middle North Falls also let you walk behind them. This cool feature exists because water wore away the soft rock under the hard basalt, creating natural paths that park workers made safe for visitors.

North Rim Trail Opened Recently For Easier Access

The park added the North Rim Trail in July 2023, making it easier for more people to enjoy the scenery. This one-mile trail is wide (6+ feet) with a solid surface and includes a great view of North Falls.

You can get to this trail from either the North Canyon Trailhead or the North Falls parking area. It’s perfect if you want a less challenging way to see the park’s beauty.

Bike Trails And Tree Climbing Are Also Popular

Beyond waterfall hikes, the park offers over 35 miles of trails for mountain biking and horseback riding. The South Falls area has large lawns, BBQ spots, picnic shelters, a playground, and a dog off-leash area.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try guided tree climbing experiences. Options range from half-day climbs to sunset adventures high in the forest canopy.

Each Season Shows Different Animals And Plants

The park hosts many animals including squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and various birds. Each season brings something different to enjoy. Spring offers powerful waterfalls from melting snow.

Summer provides warm hiking weather. Fall shows off bright red and orange leaves from maple trees in October. Winter brings quiet trails, though sometimes with snow and ice.

The Lodge Was Built By Depression Era Workers

The park features beautiful old buildings made by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and early 1940s. The South Falls Lodge, built in 1940 from stone and logs, now serves as a visitor center.

Some of the original benches and tables made from myrtle wood are still in the lodge today. The building stays open every day of the year and offers a warm fire and free Wi-Fi when it rains.

Some Cabins Stay Open During Current Renovations

From September 2024 through summer 2025, parts of the campground and some cabins are closed for upgrades. Cabins 1-10 remain open, along with all trails and day-use areas.

When fully open, the park offers tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even a special campground for people traveling with horses. The South Falls Lodge and Cafe stay open during all renovation work.

Spring Has The Most Water But Summer Is Warmest

The park welcomes visitors year-round, with each season offering something special. Spring (March to May) brings roaring waterfalls and wildflowers. Summer has nice weather but more people.

Fall shows off colorful leaves in October. Winter gives you quiet trails but watch for ice and snow. To avoid crowds, start your hike before 9 AM from June through September, and try to visit on weekdays.

Parking Costs Five Dollars Per Car All Day

Silver Falls State Park sits about 25 miles east of Salem, Oregon and stays open daily from dawn to dusk. Parking costs $5 per vehicle, payable at self-serve kiosks throughout the park.

The South Falls area serves as the main hub with:

• Clean restrooms

• A cafe open 10 AM to 4 PM daily

• A nature store selling souvenirs and maps

• Dogs allowed in most areas but not on the Canyon Trail

• Longer permits are available online if you plan to visit often.