- The Trail of Ten Falls is located in Silver Falls State Park. It’s a moderate 7.2-mile loop that has an elevation difference of about 800 feet.
- The trail passes South Falls, Middle North Falls and several other waterfalls.
- There are also shorter sections that pass waterfalls for those who want something less strenuous.
While most travelers to Oregon make a beeline to the Columbia River Gorge region to see Multnomah Falls—the tallest cascade in the state—and its adjacent Waterfall Corridor, I prefer to take out-of-town visitors to a place I find even more enchanting: Silver Falls State Park. This emerald green swath in the temperate rainforest has all of the hallmarks of a traditional getaway. Pacific Northwest Wonderland is only 90 minutes away from Portland. There are miles of trails surrounded by Douglas firs draped with moss. Giant ferns rustle in the breeze. However, the park is most famous for its 10 unique waterfalls—and you can visit them all on one 7.2-mile hike.
The hike is called Trail of Ten Falls and it’s a moderate, loop trail with an 800 foot elevation gain. Even though I’m not a very experienced hiker (especially by Oregon standards), I’ve been hiking this trail since I first started. It’s never been too challenging. There are a few different starting points, but I usually begin at the South Falls District trailhead, where there’s a cafe, a nature store, and—most importantly—restrooms. Then I walk the loop counterclockwise because I’m impatient. I want to see the 177-foot South Falls water curtain, which is just north of trailhead.
Jonathan/Adobe Wall Stock
After passing Middle North Falls, hang a right on the Winter Trail and head down for half a mile to see Winter Falls with its thick drop of misty water (this is my favorite place to feel the spray of ionized water on my face). Winter Falls is located half a mile down the Winter Trail after passing Middle North Falls. This is where I like to feel the misty spray of water on my skin. You can return to the main trail rim, continue the loop to see three other falls, or shorten your hike by going back to South Falls.
If doing five to seven miles feels like too much, don’t worry—there are plenty of shorter segments where you can still get your waterfall fix, but with less exertion. The South Falls out and back hike is a great option for time-pressed hikers. It takes you to South Falls, then back in one mile. The South Falls out-and-back hike is great for first time hikers, and for those with children. However, you might want to consider investing in a safety belt for your little ones because there are a few sheer points on the trail. The mile-long North Rim Trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible. It opened in 2023. The route is compacted and never narrower that six feet. The trail leads to a lookout that offers stunning views of North Falls. Silver Falls State Park can be enjoyed by all hikers, regardless of their hiking experience. If you decide to take the Trail of Ten Falls, or choose a shorter option, you will find plenty of enchantment.
