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About Baker Creek Falls
Baker Creek Falls is a tucked‑away, picture‑perfect cascade in Oregon’s Coast Range near McMinnville. Framed by dense, ferny forest and moss‑coated boulders, the falls are modest in height but endlessly photogenic—a peaceful reward after a short backcountry approach. The route to the viewpoint is a roughly 2.4‑mile out‑and‑back that gains about 350 feet, making it a moderate, satisfying half‑day jaunt for hikers who prefer quieter, less‑developed destinations. The approach follows unmarked, primitive paths rather than a signed or maintained trail, so expect uneven footing and limited signage as you move through the mossy amphitheater surrounding the stream. Bring sturdy footwear, allow extra time for route‑finding, and take care on slippery rocks and roots—the forest setting is remote in feel even if the distance is short, which is part of what makes Baker Creek Falls a favorite for photographers and hikers seeking solitude.
The Setting
Baker Creek Falls sits at 899 feet along the Nestucca River, in the foothills of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Route: ~2.4 miles round trip (out‑and‑back); Elevation gain: ~350 feet; Difficulty: moderate; Trail type: out‑and‑back. There is no established, maintained USFS trail leading directly to the base of Baker Creek Falls; the approach follows unmarked or primitive paths rather than a signed/maintained route. Surface: natural forest footing—leaf litter, roots, rocks and mossy ground. Grade/Class: variable moderate grades with short ups and downs on primitive tread (trail is essentially unclassified/off‑trail). Use caution, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and allow extra time for slower travel and route‑finding through forested terrain.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and natural setting with a small, cascading waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area is not heavily trafficked, offering a quiet retreat for those seeking solitude. However, the lack of signage and maintained trails may make access challenging.
Accessibility
The site is not wheelchair accessible and may be difficult to reach for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Baker Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Baker Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is most active due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The terrain around the falls can be slippery and uneven. Exercise caution when exploring the area, especially near the water. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
6.60 ft
Water depth at gauge
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NESTUCCA RIVER NEAR FAIRDALE, OR (8 km away).
Today
Strong
3 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
3 cfs
7/10Sat
Strong
3 cfs
10/10Sun
Moderate
3 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
3 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
3 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
3 cfs
9/10Best window: Sat — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid November to late January, peaking in January.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near McMinnville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 283 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 888 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 243 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 134 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 888 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 283 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Baker Creek Falls is accessible via Baker Creek Road, which is located near McMinnville, Oregon. The falls are situated in a forested area, and visitors typically park along the road or in nearby pullouts. The exact location may require some exploration as it is not a heavily marked or developed site.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available along Baker Creek Road. Visitors should ensure they park safely and avoid blocking traffic.
Elevation
899 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.259558° N, -123.345664° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Bring a map or GPS device as the area is not well-marked. Visit during the spring or early summer for the best water flow.
Where to Stay
McMinnville Inn
Best Western McMinnville Inn
The Big Larz Casa, hot tub, pool, steps to Main Street
McMenamins Hotel Oregon
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Fan Creek Recreation Site
7.5 miles away · 11 sites
Overview Want to camp? Camping season is generally May-September, with Alder Glen and Elk Bend remaining open through the weekend following General Western Oregon Coast 2nd Season for elk. During months with reduced sunlight, potable water may be turned off. Be prepared to bring your own wash and drinking water. Reserve a site at one of our four campgrounds on recreation.gov or pay when you arrive for non-reserved campsites using the Recreation.gov Mobile App. You must download before you reach t
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
McMinnville, Oregon, is nearby and offers restaurants, wineries, and the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Baker Creek Falls
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