Trail of Ten Falls

Trail of Ten Falls is the crown jewel of Silver Falls State Park and Oregon's most visited state park trail, a magnificent loop that visits ten named waterfalls cascading through a spectacular basalt canyon carved by the North and South Forks of Silver Creek. The falls range from modest cascades to the spectacular 177-foot South Falls, the largest and most dramatic, which plunges over a basalt ledge into a pool surrounded by ancient forest. One of the trail's most memorable features is the opportunity to walk behind several of the falls, passing through the space between the water curtain and the basalt wall in a truly immersive experience. The trail descends into the canyon through old-growth forest of Douglas fir, bigleaf maple, and vine maple, following the creek through a landscape of extraordinary beauty that changes character with every season. Autumn brings spectacular foliage color as the maples turn gold and orange, while winter increases the falls volume and spring coats the canyon in fresh green. The basalt canyon walls display the geological layering of ancient Columbia Plateau lava flows, and interpretive signs explain both the geology and the natural history of the canyon ecosystem. The park encompasses 9,000 acres and includes 35 miles of trails, making this one of Oregon's most treasured natural areas. Start early in summer to beat the crowds that converge on this deservedly popular destination.