Silver Falls State Park — 20 Things To Do!

Located in the lush landscapes of Oregon, Silver Falls State Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Known as the “Crown Jewel” of Oregon State Parks, it offers a remarkable experience for nature lovers with its stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic trails. This park is famous for the Trail of Ten Falls, a loop trail that lets visitors walk behind some of the waterfalls, providing a unique and immersive experience during your visit to Oregon.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Trail of Ten Falls

The Trail of Ten Falls offers a stunning experience with its ten beautiful waterfalls. The trail is about 8 miles long and takes you through scenic landscapes. Each waterfall has its unique charm, and some even allow you to walk behind the falls for a different perspective. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all skill levels of hikers. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the views or take photos. The cascading waters and the fresh scent of the forest create a peaceful atmosphere. There are also picnic areas where you can take a break and have a snack.

South Falls

South Falls in Silver Falls State Park is one of Oregon’s most impressive waterfalls. The 177 foot waterfall is a sight to behold, with water cascading down a rocky cliff into a pool below. The trail to South Falls is easy to follow and offers beautiful views of the forest. One of the unique features of this waterfall is that you can walk behind the falls, giving you a different perspective and a chance to feel the cool mist on your face. The area around South Falls is perfect for a weekend getaway. South Falls is a popular spot, so it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.

North Falls

North Falls is part of the Trail of Ten Falls and offers a memorable experience for nature lovers. The trail to North Falls is moderate and takes you through lush forests. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the sight of water plunging 136 feet over a basalt cliff into a pool below. One unique feature of North Falls is the trail that goes behind the waterfall, giving you a different perspective and a chance to feel the cool mist. The area around the falls is perfect for a picnic or a moment of relaxation. North Falls is less crowded than some of the other waterfalls in the park.

Upper North Falls

Upper North Falls is easily accessible via a short and gentle trail. The path takes you through a lush forest, offering glimpses of the area’s natural beauty along the way. When you arrive, you’ll find a 65 foot waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff into a clear pool below, creating a picturesque scene. The area around Upper North Falls is great for a picnic or just sitting quietly to soak in the surroundings. The trail is suitable for all ages, making it a great spot for families. It’s less crowded than some of the park’s larger waterfalls, offering a quieter and more intimate experience.

Middle North Falls

The trail to Middle North Falls is moderate, taking you through lush forests and offering glimpses of the park’s natural beauty. When you arrive, you’ll see water cascading 106 feet over a rocky ledge into a pool below. One unique feature of Middle North Falls is that you can walk behind the waterfall, giving you a different perspective and a chance to feel the cool mist. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy the views. Middle North Falls is less crowded than some of the other waterfalls in the park, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter experience.

Lower South Falls

Lower South Falls is a 93 foot waterfall, offers a beautiful view as water cascades down a rocky cliff into a pool below. The trail to Lower South Falls is part of the Trail of Ten Falls and takes you through a lush forest. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. One unique feature of Lower South Falls is the trail that goes behind the waterfall. Walking behind the falls gives you a different angle, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. The area around Lower South Falls is great for a picnic or a break during your hike for a quieter experience.

Twin Falls

The hike to Twin Falls is moderate, passing through lush forests and offering glimpses of the park’s natural beauty. The waterfall itself is stunning, with two parallel streams of water cascading down rocky cliffs into a clear pool below. The area around the falls is great for a picnic or just to sit and take in the view. Twin Falls is less crowded than some of the other waterfalls in the park, making it a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a quieter experience. The trail is well-kept, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the scenery along the way.

Drake Falls

Drake Falls is a short but stunning waterfall, and it goes through lush forests, offering glimpses of the park’s natural beauty along the way. When you arrive, you’ll find a wooden viewing platform that provides a perfect vantage point to admire the falls. The water cascades down a rocky cliff into a clear pool below, creating a serene and beautiful scene. The sound of the water and the cool, fresh air add to the peaceful atmosphere. Drake Falls is less crowded than some of the park’s larger waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter experience.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Canyon Trail

The Canyon Trail is part of the famous Trail of Ten Falls and offers a scenic journey along a winding river. The 7.2 mile loop is well-marked and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. As you walk, you’ll pass by several breathtaking waterfalls, each with its unique charm. The trail is well-marked, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the views or take photos. The sound of the water and the fresh scent of the forest create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. The diverse scenery and the chance to see many waterfalls in one hike make Canyon Trail a must-visit for nature lovers.

Rim Trail

The Rim Trail is around 5.3 miles long and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. As you walk along the trail, you’ll enjoy the sight of lush forests and the sound of birds chirping. The trail provides several viewpoints where you can stop and take in the stunning scenery. The well-marked path makes for a pleasant hike, with a mix of shaded areas and open sections make it a great spot for a peaceful walk. Along the way, you’ll find places to rest and enjoy a snack while taking in the views. Its combination of scenic beauty and tranquility makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Winter Activities

Silver Falls State Park transforms into a winter wonderland, providing visitors with a variety of activities to enjoy. One of the most popular winter activities is hiking the Trail of Ten Falls. The waterfalls are stunning in winter, with icicles forming around them, creating a picturesque scene. For those who love photography, the winter landscape offers countless opportunities to capture the beauty of the park. Snow-covered trees and frozen waterfalls make for incredible photos. The park’s peaceful atmosphere during the winter months is perfect for a moment of solitude.

Horseback Riding

Silver Falls State Park has several trails perfect for horseback riding. Riding a horse allows you to cover more ground and see parts of the park that you might miss on foot. The park has well-marked trails for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Visitors all welcome to bring their own horse or rent one from a nearby stable. The trails offers plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery. Horseback riding in Silver Falls State Park is a peaceful and relaxing experience. The gentle pace of riding a horse allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Photography Spots

Silver Falls State Park offers plenty of photography spots perfect for capturing stunning images. One of the best places to start is the Trail of Ten Falls, which takes you to several waterfalls, each providing unique photo opportunities. South Falls, with its 177 foot drop, and you can walk behind the waterfall, capturing the cascading water from different angles. North Falls is another great spot, featuring a 136 foot drop and a trail that goes behind the falls. The park’s towering trees and sunlight also offer endless photo opportunities creating a magical atmosphere.

Camping Sites

Silver Falls State Park offers plenty of camping options to suit different preferences. The main campground has over 90 sites, including tent sites, RV spots, and cabins. The sites are spacious, and many are surrounded by trees, and it comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, making it easy to enjoy outdoors. The campground has clean restrooms, hot showers, and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay. There is also a day-use area nearby, with picnic tables and access to the park’s trails. For those seeking a more rustic experience, the park offers backcountry camping.

3. Family-Friendly Activities

Visitor Center Exploration

Exploring the Visitor Center in Silver Falls State Park is a must for anyone visiting this beautiful park in Oregon. Located near the main entrance, the Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Inside, you’ll find helpful staff who can provide maps, brochures, and information about the park’s trails and attractions. The center also has informative displays that showcase the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. These exhibits provide a deeper understanding of the park and there’s a small gift shop where you can buy souvenirs, books, and local crafts.

Junior Ranger Program

The Junior Ranger Program is designed for children to explore the park and learn about its plants, animals, and history. The activities are fun and educational for young adventurers. Kids receive a Junior Ranger booklet filled with tasks to complete during their visit. These tasks include things like spotting different types of trees, learning about the park’s history, and understanding the role of park rangers. Completing these tasks helps kids earn a Junior Ranger badge, and the program encourages children to be curious and ask questions about the environment.

Educational Programs

Silver Falls State Park offers a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs are designed to help people learn about the park’s natural and cultural history. Led by park rangers, these walks take you through the park’s trails, offering insights into the local flora and fauna. The rangers share interesting facts and stories, making the experience both fun and informative. The park also offers educational talks and presentations on various topics, such as the geology of the falls, the history of the area, and the importance of conservation.

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt in Silver Falls State Park is a fun and engaging way to explore the park. Participants can search for specific plants, animals, and landmarks as they hike through the park. The hunt can be tailored to different age groups and skill levels, making it an enjoyable activity. To start, pick up a scavenger hunt list from the visitor center or create your own. The list might include spotting a specific type of tree, finding a certain waterfall, or looking for signs of wildlife. As you explore the park, you’ll learn about the different plants and animals that call Silver Falls home.

Historic Smith Creek Village

The Historic Smith Creek Village was built in 1930s, this rustic lodge has a rich history and offers a glimpse into the past. The lodge was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps and reflects the craftsmanship of that era. Its stone and timber construction blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Today, the lodge serves as a visitor center and event space. Visitors can explore the lodge’s cozy interior, which features a large stone fireplace and wooden beams. It also houses exhibits that showcase the park’s history and the efforts to preserve its natural beauty.

How to Reach Silver Falls State Park

If you’re driving from Portland, take I-5 South to Exit 253 for OR-22 East toward Detroit Lake/Bend. Follow OR-22 for about 15 miles, then take the exit for Silver Falls State Park. From there, follow the marked signs to the park entrance. The drive takes about 1.5 hours and offers scenic views along the way. If you’re coming from Salem, take OR-22 East toward Stayton/Detroit Lake. After about 15 miles, take the exit for Silver Falls State Park and follow the signs to the park entrance. The drive from Salem takes about 40 minutes.

For those relying on GPS, simply enter “Silver Falls State Park” as your destination. The park’s address is 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, OR 97385. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the best way to reach the park. Once you arrive, there is ample parking available near the South Falls Day Use Area. The park staff at the entrance can provide maps and information to help you get started.

Local Transportation

Getting around Silver Falls State Park is straightforward and enjoyable. Once you arrive, the best way to explore the park is on foot, as many of the trails are accessible directly from the main parking areas. The South Falls Day Use Area is a great starting point, with several trailheads leading to various parts of the park. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, biking is allowed on some trails. The Rim Trail and the paved bike path offer scenic routes through the park.

If you’re visiting with kids or have mobility issues, the park also has ADA-accessible trails and facilities. These paths are well-maintained and provide easy access to some of the park’s most popular spots, including the South Falls. While there is no public transportation within the park, driving is the most convenient way to get around. There are several parking areas throughout the park, making it easy to access different trails and attractions. The park’s well-maintained trails and facilities ensure a pleasant and memorable visit for all.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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