Chasing Waterfalls: Oregon’s Most Stunning Hidden Falls
Oregon, known for its green valleys, diverse landscapes, and majestic mountains, is also blessed with some of the most beautiful waterfalls hidden deep within its forests. Pull on your favorite hiking boots, grab a camera, and get ready to experience these ten dazzling bodies of cascading water amidst the Pacific Northwest scenery. We’re going waterfall chasing, Oregon style.1. Toketee Falls
Located near Roseburg in Douglas County, the Toketee Falls is just a short hike away from the parking lot. Just follow the path by the North Umpqua River. A series of wooden steps will take you to an observation platform where you can admire this two-tiered waterfall, known for its basaltic columnar formations. Don’t forget to check out the Umpqua Hot Springs while you’re in the area for a warm soak after your hike.2. Ramona Falls
Who said chasing waterfalls was easy? Hike the exhilarating 7-mile loop trail in the Mt. Hood National Forest to witness the spectacular 120 feet cascading beauty of Ramona Falls. Cross the Sandy River, but be cautious as there’s no official bridge. Pro Tip: June and July are especially picturesque with wildflowers blooming along the trail.3. Punch Bowl Falls
Amidst Eagle Creek’s lush greenery in the Columbia Gorge, Punch Bowl Falls does a marvelous disappearing act. Its water tumbles into a punchbowl formation beneath, out of sight before re-emerging downstream. The trail to this waterfall can be somewhat challenging, but the view that awaits is the reward in itself. Oh, don’t forget to bring waterproof boots – the trail can be quite muddy.
4. Salt Creek Falls
You’ll find Oregon’s second highest single-drop waterfall tucked away in the Willamette National Forest, east of Oakridge. Salt Creek Falls, plunging 286 feet into a deep canyon, can be seen from several viewing platforms. Consider taking the optional loop trail to Diamond Creek Falls for an extra dose of waterfall wonder.5. Tamanawas Falls
This east Mt. Hood gem, located along the Cold Spring Creek, is a sight to behold year-round. But, nothing matches the scene in winter when Tamanawas Falls often freezes, creating a natural ice sculpture that looks like something out of a fairy tale. The four-mile round trip hike is relatively easy, making it a great outing for families.6. Drift Creek Falls
Down Lincoln City’s scenic byway, Drift Creek Falls awaits. It’s a gentle 3-mile hike full of serene wilderness before reaching the 240-foot suspension bridge. Standing on it provides an unparalleled view of the 75-foot waterfall below. And for a unique coastal experience, follow your waterfall adventure with a seafood meal at Mo’s Restaurant.7. Proxy Falls
One of Central Oregon’s most photogenic waterfalls, Proxy Falls near Sisters, is accessible via an easy 1.5-mile trail – perfect for novice hikers. The jaw-dropping cascade pours over moss-covered basalt into tranquil pools below. Don’t forget your camera for this one!8. Wahclella Falls
Hidden in the Tanner Creek canyon in the Gorge, Wahclella Falls is a short, but slightly steep, 2-mile round trip hike from the trailhead off I-84. This tucked-away two-tiered cascade may not be as famous as some others, but it’s a must-see for any true waterfall chaser.9. Abiqua Falls
This one’s a bit off the beaten path. Navigate through the rough roads near Scotts Mills to find this beauty tucked away in a basaltic amphitheater. Abiqua Falls is not for the faint-hearted but makes for a perfect adventure. Consider a 4-wheel drive and prepare for a steep climb down to the creek path.10. Horsetail Falls
Last but not the least in our waterfall pursuit is Horsetail Falls, located in the Columbia River Gorge. It gets its name from the way the water arches over the rocks, much like a horse’s tail. No hike required here—the falls can be seen right from the Historic Columbia River Highway.There you have it, ten of the most incredibly hidden waterfalls in Oregon, each offering a unique display of nature’s magnificence. Oregon is a wonderland for waterfall chasers, and in the Pacific Northwest, the journey is just as beautiful as the destination. So let’s put the map down and let Oregon’s hidden waterfall wonders find you. Happy exploring, fellow waterfall chasers!