Abiqua Falls is perhaps the best and most tucked away waterfall near Salem, Oregon. This hidden gem promises an adventure like no other. As part of the same geological marvel as Silver Falls State Park, Abiqua Falls boasts its own unique charm and allure. While the Abiqua Falls hike to this natural wonder might not be marked with flashy signs, the rugged trail and untouched beauty make it a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast.
Getting To Abiqua Falls Trailhead
Abiqua Falls trailhead is located near: Crooked Finger Rd NE, Scotts Mills, OR 97375
Warning: The road to the Abiqua Falls trail is totally unpaved and dirt/gravel. I am not going to lie to you. It is a rough road, so be prepared to come with an SUV, Jeep, or high-clearance vehicle. This goes doubly true if we’ve had wet weather recently. Trust me. If you don’t have one, rent one or borrow one. I have an idea how AAA would even get you out of this one and there’s no cell signal so I’d download the alltrails maps.
There were some massive potholes that made us have to park and try to hike the first time, and we never found the Abiqua Falls trail, so we had to turn back without seeing the breathtaking waterfall.
Abiqua Falls Trail Parking
The parking area listed on Google Maps is not right (hence the reason for this Abiqua Falls hiking guide). You can and should park there if you don’t have an SUV, but then you have to hike along the road to get to the trail. It makes this hike MUCH longer. It’s about 2-3 miles of road with a steep downward elevation gain which makes the trip back pretty rough.
Instead, follow the road right at the parking area marked on google maps and stay on the main road. There are a few pull-offs and service roads. You want to go until you see a locked gate marked “private property” that won’t let you continue any further. Park there, and the trailhead is on your left, facing the gate.
GPS coordinates: 44.93099, -122.56757
Abiqua Falls Hiking Trail Overview
The trail hugs Abiqua Creek towards the end and has some of the same geological formation you’ll see at Silver Falls State Park. The cliff walls of basalt around the falls are in a semi-circle which makes it feel quite enclosed. Along the way is you’ll see dense forest and untouched mossy rocks. After the private property sign keep heading down the trail until you see a fork with a downed tree on the righthand side. Turn left and follow that path. There’s a climb down to get to the falls, where the trail is a bit rough. Once, you read the creek the Abiqua falls hike is pretty tame. Turn left at the bottom of the ropes, and the falls will be around the corner.
Trail Difficulty and Terrain
The Abiqua Falls trail presents varying levels of difficulty, with sections of rugged terrain and steep slopes, but expect a challenging hike. Hikers should be prepared for uneven footing, rocky pathways, and occasional obstacles along the way. It also has a couple of sections with ropes set to guide you down, but again, it’s steep. I wouldn’t bring small children on this hike. That said, the elevation gain is well worth it for the short hike and truly one of the most unique waterfalls you can find in Oregon.
Length and Estimated Time for Completion
The length of the Abiqua Falls trail varies depending on the starting point, but it typically spans around 0.7 miles one way or 1.4 miles roundtrip from the parking area described above. Due to the rugged terrain and elevation changes, hikers should allow approximately 1 to 1.5 hours for the hike to the falls and back. Factors such as individual pace and rest breaks may affect completion time.
What to Bring to Abiqua Creek
Sturdy Footwear: Remember it’s going to be steep at parts and it’s rocky around the creek. Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction to navigate the rocky and uneven terrain along the trail.
Water: Stay hydrated by bringing an ample supply of water, especially during warmer weather or longer hikes.
Snacks: Pack energy-boosting snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fresh fruits to keep you fueled throughout your hike.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers and check the weather forecast before your hike. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather conditions. It’s cooler near the fall.
Backpack: Carry your essentials in a comfortable backpack, ensuring hands-free exploration of the trail.
Navigation Tools: Bring an alltrails trail map, compass, or GPS device to help you navigate the trail, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit with bandages or antiseptic wipes incase you take a fall
Camera: Capture the beauty of Abiqua Falls and the surrounding scenery with a camera or smartphone to preserve memories of your adventure.
Respectful Attitude: Show respect for the environment and fellow hikers by following Leave No Trace principles and staying on designated trails.
Check Out Silver Falls State Park for More Waterfalls
The Abiqua Falls hike is one of the top waterfall hikes in Oregon, but if climbing down the ropes or the rough road has you thinking twice about this one, check out Silver Falls State Park. The trail of ten falls is much more chill and has a paved parking area, coffee shop, and gift shop. If you’re a less experienced hiker, that’s going to be a more rewarding hike for you with 10 waterfalls along the way, and the first one is yards from the parking lot.
FAQs about Abiqua Falls
The trail to Abiqua Falls is approximately 0.7 to 0.9 miles in length one way, making for a round trip of about 1.4 to 1.8 miles.
Abiqua Falls is located on private property owned by the Mt. Angel Abbey, a Benedictine monastery. The owners have graciously made it open to the public for enjoyment and exploration.
Yes,, it can be helpful, especially if you’re driving on unpaved or rugged roads leading to the parking area. The final stretch of road leading to the trailhead can be rough and uneven, with gravel, potholes, and occasional obstacles. A vehicle with higher clearance, such as a 4×4, SUV, or truck, may navigate these conditions more comfortably and to avoid damage to your car I’d recommend it.