Are there fees or permits required for Abiqua Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Abiqua Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Abiqua Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Abiqua Falls.

Abiqua Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Abiqua Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Abiqua Falls.

Oregon • 92 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Forest Development Fund (Board Of Forestry) SRMA · SDNR

Photo Credits (5)

Courtarro CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Abiqua Falls

Abiqua Falls is a dramatic 92-foot cascade tucked near Scotts Mills, Oregon, plunging into a deep, clear pool framed by a basalt amphitheater — a favorite subject for photographers and anyone who appreciates a show-stopping waterfall. The short approach and close-up views make it feel intimate and wild at once, with the roar of the falls filling the canyon as you descend. The falls sit on land managed by SDNR under the Forest Development Fund (Board Of Forestry), designated as an SRMA and managed by SLB. A roughly 1.5-mile out-and-back route (moderate, about 300 feet of elevation gain) brings you in; if you’re planning to camp nearby, the Aquila Vista Recreation Site is the closest option at about 8.69 km away.

The Setting

Abiqua Falls sits at 1,263 feet within Forest Development Fund (Board Of Forestry), in the foothills of Oregon. The falls drop 92 feet.

Height: 92 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Double Falls (178 ft) lies 4.5 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: North Falls (136 ft, 3.9 mi) and Upper North Falls (65 ft, 3.8 mi).

Double Falls North Falls Upper North Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

This is a roughly 1.5-mile out-and-back route with about 300 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Expect a steep, uneven descent through forest to reach the base of the falls; sections can be muddy and slippery after rain, and footing is often rooty and rocky. The trail provides direct access to the basalt-walled pool below the 92-foot drop. No official USFS trail number, trail surface, grade, or class is listed by the managing land unit.

What to Expect

The falls cascade 92 feet. Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Abiqua Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Abiqua Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides easier trail conditions.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

The trail can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Use caution when descending to the falls. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago

2.02 ft

Water depth at gauge

60°F

Warm

Very comfortable

What does this mean for your visit?

Water temperature is a bracing 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

MOLALLA R AB PC NR WILHOIT, OR

USGS 14198500

7.1 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 97 sq mi

Altitude: 791 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lyons hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Abiqua Falls is located on private land, but access is generally allowed. The trailhead can be reached via Crooked Finger Road, though the last stretch of the road is rough and may require a high-clearance vehicle. Visitors should park at the designated area before the trailhead and walk the rest of the way.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Limited parking is available near the trailhead. Visitors should avoid blocking the road or private property.

Elevation

1263 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.926321° N, -122.567289° W

Land Management

Forest Development Fund (Board Of Forestry) SRMA

Managed by SLB

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail can be slippery. Bring a map or GPS, as the trail is not well-marked. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Be respectful of the private land and pack out all trash.

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With 1.5 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Aquila Vista Recreation Site

5.4 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

Overview Aquila Vista is closed until further notice to remove wildfire burned danger trees. Aquila Vista is available for overnight group camping for groups up to 30 people and 20 vehicles. The season, when it reopens, will be mid-May through mid-October. The site is located in the heart of the forest next to a large beaver pond. There is plenty of hiking and natural beauty to see at Aquila Vista including a small waterfall. Amenities include vault toilet, two group picnic shelters with multiple

Book on Recreation.gov