Are there fees or permits required for Ayers Creek Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Ayers Creek Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Ayers Creek Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Ayers Creek Falls.

Live Conditions · 166 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Ayers Creek Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Ayers Creek Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Ayers Creek Falls.

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Ayers Creek Falls

Ayers Creek Falls tumbles along Ayers Creek on the outer edge of Santiam State Forest near Mehama in Marion County, Oregon, where the west foothills form a transition zone where Mount Hood National Forest meets the Middle Santiam Wilderness. The waterfall is formed on Ayers Creek — the smallest tributary of Stout Creek — and is one of several tucked-away cascades in this forested stretch. Framed by dense green timber and a rocky canyon, the viewpoint feels intimate and quiet compared with larger, more-visited falls, making it a lovely stop for hikers exploring the Santiam foothills. The outing is a pleasant, moderate hike rather than a developed day‑use area, appealing to those who prefer softer tread and a backcountry atmosphere. Expect mossy scenery and shaded forest as you descend into the canyon for the best views; bring a map or GPS and plan for natural trail conditions rather than formal facilities. Its off-the-beaten-path character rewards visitors looking for a tranquil waterfall experience in the foothills where public forestlands meet wilderness country.

The Setting

Ayers Creek Falls sits at 1,444 feet along the Little North Santiam River, in the foothills of Oregon.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Shellburg Falls (100 ft) lies 1.0 miles to the west. Also nearby: Stout Creek Falls (34 ft, 0.7 mi).

Shellburg Falls Stout Creek Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Distance: 2.4 miles round trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Available sources do not list an official USFS trail name or number for the Ayers Creek Falls route, nor do they provide formal USFS surface, grade, or trail-class data. On-the-ground route conditions follow unpaved forest paths and natural tread through west-foothill timber: expect dirt and root-covered surfaces, occasional rocky sections and short, steeper pitches as the trail drops into the canyon. Footing can be uneven and slipperier when wet; plan for typical backcountry conditions and use maps or GPS for navigation. There are no listed developed facilities or nearby campgrounds within 10 km, so come prepared for a day hike with basic backcountry precautions.

What to Expect

Expect a quiet and secluded waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may have dense vegetation and a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ayers Creek Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Ayers Creek Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer may be the best times to visit, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

Visitors should exercise caution due to potentially unmarked trails, slippery rocks, and uneven terrain. Check weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rain or storms.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

166 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

319 395 994 1.4k

Based on 94 years of record

3.23 ft

Water depth at gauge

64°F

Cool

Refreshing for swimming

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a refreshing 64 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.5 and mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

9.5 mg/L

Dissolved Oxygen

Excellent

Supports aquatic life

7.5

Normal

Within healthy range (6.5-8.5)

42 µS/cm

Conductance

Dissolved minerals in the water

About This Gauge

LITTLE NORTH SANTIAM RIVER NEAR MEHAMA, OR

USGS 14182500

1.5 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 112 sq mi

Altitude: 655 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

Ayers Creek Falls is located in Oregon, but specific directions to the site are not widely documented. Visitors may need to rely on local maps or GPS coordinates to locate the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead or access point.

Elevation

1444 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.811838° N, -122.588389° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the location is not well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Check local conditions before visiting.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.

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.

Kahtoola MICROspikes

Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.

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

12.8 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