Silver Falls State Park · Silverton, Oregon
Trail of Ten Falls
At a Glance
Distance
7.8 mi
Full loop
Elevation
1,568 ft
Gain
Difficulty
Moderate
Full loop
Parking fee
$5
Per vehicle
Dogs
Limited
Rim Trail only
Best season
Mar–Jun
Peak flow
From Portland
~1 hr 10
54 miles via Hwy 22
Season
Year-Round
Open all year
The Trail of Ten Falls is a 7.8-mile loop at Silver Falls State Park that passes ten waterfalls in a single hike, including four where the trail goes directly behind the falling water. It is rated moderate, costs $5 to park, and is open year-round. From Portland it is about 54 miles, roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes via Highway 22.
In my view it is the best waterfall hike in Oregon. I’ve done Proxy Falls, Ramona, Drift Creek, and a lot more, and nothing else gives you this variety and volume on a single loop. This guide is based on multiple visits in different seasons and covers all five route options, parking, timing, and what to bring.
Trail of Ten Falls Map
The full loop starts and ends at South Falls. The map shows all 10 waterfall locations, both trailheads, and the major trail junctions.
Trail Traffic: This is one of the most popular hikes in Oregon. Go as early as you can on weekends to avoid a crowded parking lot and busy trails near the falls. Mid-week visits are significantly quieter year-round.
About Trail of Ten Falls
The Trail of Ten Falls is a loop trail within Silver Falls State Park, Oregon’s largest state park at over 9,000 acres. The full loop is 7.8 miles with 1,568 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. In that distance it passes ten waterfalls ranging from 27 feet to 184 feet tall, including four with a walk-behind trail that takes you directly behind the curtain of water.
It’s also genuinely versatile. If 7.8 miles is too much, there are four shorter routes that still get you to the best falls. A first-timer with a young family can be standing behind South Falls within 15 minutes of parking. A serious hiker can do the full loop and be back in under three hours. The trail accommodates both and everything in between.
The first time I walked behind South Falls I was not prepared for how loud it gets inside the alcove. The roar amplifies off the basalt in a way that makes the waterfall feel twice as powerful as it looks from above. I’ve been back five times and that moment still gets me.
Will, Oregon TailsPark Amenities
The South Falls Day-Use Area has a nature store, spacious lawns, picnic shelters, tables, a playground, and an off-leash dog area. Note that dogs are not allowed on the waterfall canyon trails. Pets are only permitted on the Rim Trail, the bike path, and the Upper North Falls trail.
The Silver Falls Park Cafe near the South Falls parking area has coffee, snacks, and light food. If you want a proper meal after the hike, the small city of Silverton is about 8 miles west and has a good variety of restaurants.
Where is Silver Falls State Park?
Silver Falls State Park is near Silverton, Oregon, about 20 miles (26 minutes) east of Salem. From Portland it is approximately 54 miles, about 1 hour and 10 minutes via Highway 22. Its combination of accessible waterfalls and proximity to both cities makes it one of the most visited state parks in Oregon.
GPS for the South Falls Day-Use Area: 44.875696, -122.653276
Parking at Silver Falls State Park
Most parking is at the South Falls Day-Use Area. There is also a smaller lot at the North Falls trailhead on the opposite side of the loop.
Parking fee
$5 per vehicle. Pay stations at trailheads and entrance booth. Exact change for cash. Visa and MasterCard accepted at the South Falls entrance. Campground receipt waives the fee.
America the Beautiful pass
Not accepted. Silver Falls is an Oregon State Parks property. The federal Interagency Pass does not apply here.
Reservations
Day-use parking is first-come, first-served with no advance booking. Arrive before 9 a.m. on weekends from May through September.
Camping
Requires advance reservations through Oregon State Parks. Two campgrounds in the park.
The 10 Waterfalls at Trail of Ten Falls
Listed in clockwise order from the South Falls trailhead, which is the recommended hiking direction for the full loop.
1. South Falls walk-behind
South Falls is the most photographed waterfall in the park and the first you reach from the South Falls trailhead. At 177 feet it is the second-tallest on the loop and the most accessible. The trail passes directly behind it through a carved basalt alcove. You can view it from above, behind, and at the base.
2. Lower South Falls walk-behind
Lower South Falls shares the same rectangular shape and walk-behind trail as South Falls. At 93 feet it drops about half as far, but the experience behind the curtain is just as good, and it tends to be less crowded than South Falls even on busy days.
3. Lower North Falls
One of the more modest falls on the loop at 30 feet, but picturesque. About 100 cubic feet of water flows over it each second. You can descend to the pool at its base for a closer look.
4. Double Falls
The tallest waterfall in Silver Falls State Park at 184 feet. It drops in two stages: a short 10-foot upper section followed by a 174-foot plunge. Double Falls is on Hullt Creek, and flow drops noticeably by late summer.
5. Drake Falls
The smallest waterfall on the loop at 27 feet, Drake Falls cascades over a wide basalt ledge in a narrow canyon. The canyon walls limit views to a small deck built alongside the trail.
6. Middle North Falls walk-behind
One of four walk-behind waterfalls in the park. Unlike the others, the trail behind Middle North Falls is a dead-end spur built only for the view. The mist is close enough that you could almost reach out and touch the falling water from behind.
7. Twin Falls
Twin Falls is the easiest to miss on the loop. The two-drop cascade is somewhat tucked away and only partially visible from the main trail. Worth a glance if you are doing the full loop, but often overlooked.
8. North Falls walk-behind
The third-tallest waterfall in the park and the only one you can see from your car. North Falls has a large rock cutout with a walk-behind trail. The undercut chamber amplifies the roar significantly. Dogs are allowed on the North Falls trail.
9. Upper North Falls
Upper North Falls drops 65 feet in a broad curtain with a large pool and several logs hanging over the cliff edge from exposed root balls. The creek spreads to around 30 feet wide above the falls due to the uniform streambed. Dogs are permitted here.
10. Winter Falls
The fourth-tallest waterfall at 134 feet. Winter Falls is most dramatic in winter and early spring when flow peaks. By late summer it can slow to a trickle. The water plunges straight down before hitting a basalt outcrop that redirects it to the canyon floor.
Popular Routes for Silver Falls State Park
I’ve done all five of these routes. Here is what each one is actually like.
1. Ten Falls Trail: The Full Loop
This is the longest route but the one I always recommend if you have the legs for it. You get all ten waterfalls including all four walk-behinds. It starts and ends at the South Falls trailhead. The Canyon Trail section is moderately strenuous and not dog-friendly.
2. Ten Falls Trail: The Maple Ridge Loop
Much more manageable than the full loop while still hitting the two most famous falls in the park. This route starts with a view of South Falls from above, descends behind the 177-foot falls, then continues to Lower South Falls. For a 1-mile version, return via the bridge at the base of South Falls. For the full 2.6 miles, continue to Lower South Falls, turn right onto Maple Ridge Trail, and climb 400 feet back to the day-use area. You can also do it as a there-and-back.
Misses: Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, North Falls, Upper North Falls, Winter Falls.
3. Ten Falls Trail: North Falls & Upper North Falls Trail
An easy trail that has 78 stairs and leads behind North Falls through a large cavernous cutout. Return to the parking lot and take a short, flat trail to Upper North Falls. Pets are allowed on this entire section, making it the best option for hikers with dogs.
Misses: South Falls, Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, Winter Falls.
4. Ten Falls Trail: Winter Falls Loop
Pass seven waterfalls via the Canyon and Winter trails, including two-tiered Double Falls and the spectacular Middle North Falls that features a separate trail behind it. After passing Winter Falls, the Rim Trail leads back to the Stone Circle.
Misses: Twin Falls, North Falls, Upper North Falls.
5. Ten Falls Trail: Rim Trail
This is the only section of the Trail of Ten Falls that allows dogs on leashes. It parallels the road and includes views of North Falls. You can also continue to Upper North Falls, which is the only waterfall you can hike to with pets.
Misses: South Falls, Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, Winter Falls.
When is the Best Time to Go?
The trail is open year-round. My personal recommendation is late April to mid-May: the waterfalls are at near-peak flow from snowmelt, the wildflowers are out along the headland, and you can still get a parking spot without a 7 a.m. alarm. Here is what each season is actually like:
Winter (Dec-Feb)
The icicles that form around the falls in cold snaps create genuinely striking scenery. The trail can be icy in places so boots with grip matter more than any other time of year. Worth it if you catch a cold clear day.
Rainy Season (Oct-Apr)
The waterfalls are fullest and most impressive when precipitation is high. This is Oregon, so be prepared for mud and wet trails. The canyon sections stay damp from mist even when it has not rained recently.
Spring (Mar-May, Recommended)
Peak flow, light crowds in early spring, wildflowers along the headland. Late April and early May are the sweet spot before summer crowds arrive. The falls are running hard and the light in the canyon is excellent.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Great weather but the busiest time of year. Parking lots fill by mid-morning on weekends. Waterfall flow drops noticeably by late July. Arrive before 8:30 a.m. or come on a weekday.
What to Wear and Bring
The canyon trail stays damp from waterfall mist year-round. The ground near the walk-behind falls is almost always wet regardless of recent rainfall. I have soaked my feet in trail runners here in July on a clear day because I underestimated how much mist comes off South Falls. Do not make that mistake.
Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended for any season. The trail includes paved and unpaved sections with exposed roots and rocks that can be slippery.
Waterproof pants: The mist from walk-behind waterfalls soaks light fabrics quickly. Worth bringing especially in spring and winter.
Trekking poles: Not required, but genuinely helpful on the steeper descent near South Falls and the climb back out near the end of the full loop.
Water: No water sources on the trail. Bring at least 2 liters for the full loop. Trail benches are spaced throughout the loop if you need to rest.
Gear for This Hike
If you want more hikes near Salem or in the Willamette Valley, check these out. Or explore our interactive Oregon Waterfalls Map to find falls across the whole state.
Should You Hike Clockwise or Counter-Clockwise?
Clockwise (starting at South Falls and heading toward Lower South Falls first) is what I recommend. Going clockwise means you descend into the canyon early and climb back out near the end, which is easier on the knees for most people. The waterfall views are roughly equivalent in both directions.
Is Trail of Ten Falls Kid-Friendly?
Yes. The full 7.8-mile loop is suitable for kids around age 8 and up who are comfortable with moderate hiking. The walk-behind waterfalls are a highlight for all ages. For younger children or families with strollers, the Maple Ridge Loop (2.6 miles) and the North Falls route (1.3 miles) are much more manageable. Proper footwear matters for all ages: the canyon trail has rocky and rooted sections that get slippery when wet.
Can You Swim at Silver Falls State Park?
Swimming is not permitted in the waterfall pools or in Silver Creek within Silver Falls State Park. The park prohibits swimming to protect visitors and the creek ecosystem. There are no designated swimming areas in the park.
Where to Stay Near Silver Falls State Park
Camping at Silver Falls: The park has two campgrounds with hookup and tent sites. Both require advance reservations through Oregon State Parks. Book early for summer weekends. See our best Oregon camping spots guide for more options nearby.
Nearby towns: Silverton is about 8 miles west with motels and a good small-town downtown worth exploring after the hike. Salem, 20 miles west, has a full range of hotels.
Park hours: Open every day, year-round. Day-use areas are generally accessible from 7 a.m. to sunset. Arrive before 9 a.m. on summer weekends to guarantee parking.
Nearby Hikes and Attractions
Silver Falls pairs well with several other Willamette Valley destinations within a short drive from the park.
Silver Falls Camping
Full guide to campgrounds, sites, and reservations for staying overnight inside the park.
Best Oregon Waterfall Hikes
Our full guide to Oregon’s best waterfall hikes, from Multnomah Falls to Proxy Falls and beyond.
Willamette Valley Hikes
All our hike guides for the Willamette Valley, including Abiqua Falls and Shellburg Falls.
Ramona Falls Trail
A fan waterfall near Mount Hood, one of the most scenic shorter hikes in the Columbia River Gorge.
Information verified against Oregon State Parks Silver Falls page. Trail conditions and fee details last confirmed April 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At a casual pace with time to stop at each waterfall, the full loop takes most hikers between 3.5 and 4.5 hours. It is 7.8 miles in total and the parking at the South Falls trailhead is very close to the trailhead.
The Trail of Ten Falls is about 54 miles from Portland, roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes via Highway 22. From Salem it is about 20 miles east, approximately 30 minutes.
Double Falls is the tallest at 184 feet. South Falls is a close second at 177 feet and is the most photographed and accessible. South Falls is the first waterfall on the loop when starting from the South Falls trailhead.
Yes, Silver Falls does have black bears and cougars. Sightings are rare. If you see one, do not approach it. Back away calmly and report the sighting to the first park ranger you find.
In clockwise order from South Falls: South Falls (177 ft), Lower South Falls (93 ft), Lower North Falls (30 ft), Double Falls (184 ft), Drake Falls (27 ft), Middle North Falls (106 ft), Twin Falls (31 ft), North Falls (136 ft), Upper North Falls (65 ft), and Winter Falls (134 ft).
Dogs are only allowed on two sections: the Rim Trail and the Upper North Falls trail. They are not permitted on the Canyon Trail, which covers most of the waterfalls. The North Falls and Upper North Falls route (1.3 miles, there-and-back) is the best option for hikers with dogs.
No reservation is required for day hiking. The $5 vehicle parking fee covers day-use access on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping requires advance reservations through Oregon State Parks at oregonstateparks.org.
No. Swimming is not permitted in the waterfall pools or in Silver Creek within Silver Falls State Park. There are no designated swimming areas in the park.
Yes. The full loop is suitable for kids around age 8 and up. For younger children, the Maple Ridge Loop (2.6 miles) and the North Falls route (1.3 miles) are much easier. The walk-behind waterfalls are a highlight for all ages.
Open year-round, every day, generally from 7 a.m. to sunset. Parking lots fill quickly on summer weekends; arriving before 9 a.m. is recommended from May through September.