Aerial view · USGS
Barth Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Barth Falls
Barth Falls is a small, quietly scenic cascade on the North Fork Klaskanine River in Clatsop County, Oregon. Tucked into a shaded forest canyon, the falls are particularly notable for a three-step fish ladder that bypasses the drop to help migrating fish — a feature documented on the waterfall’s Wikipedia entry and an interesting example of fish passage in the watershed. The scale and tree‑shrouded setting give Barth Falls a tucked-away feel that appeals to hikers and photographers seeking a peaceful streamside stop. The falls are commonly reached via a short day hike, making Barth Falls an easy choice for a half‑day outing when you want solitude without a long route. Viewpoints along the trail provide pleasant access to the river and the waterfall, so it’s well suited to a relaxed morning or afternoon outing for visitors of moderate hiking ability.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Youngs River Falls (54 ft) lies 4.9 miles to the west.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: Out-and-back. Difficulty: Moderate. The route follows a well-defined forest path with steady but not prolonged climbs to viewpoints along the North Fork Klaskanine River and the waterfall. The trail ends near the river where you can view Barth Falls and the adjacent three-step fish ladder that bypasses the drop to assist migrating fish (per Wikipedia). Official USFS trail surface, grade, and class data are not specified in the available information.
What to Expect
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 Barth Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Barth Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain, and visitors should watch their footing near the waterfall. Be cautious of changing water levels and avoid climbing on wet rocks.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Nehalem River, 12.8 miles away, not on Barth Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
204 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
3.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
51°F
WarmVery comfortable
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display. Water temperature is a bracing 51 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NEHALEM RIVER AT JEWELL, OR (21 km away).
Today
Roaring
220 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
212 cfs
8/10Thu
Roaring
220 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
229 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
229 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
229 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
229 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, cloudy (trip score 8/10).
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 Svensen hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Barth Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Barth Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 57°F to 48°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 169 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Oregon.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Barth Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Barth Falls is located in the Mount Hood National Forest. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and rough in some sections. Visitors should check local conditions before heading out.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. It is recommended to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
305 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.062332° N, -123.687356° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Where to Stay
Ebb Tide Oceanfront Inn
Inn at the Prom Oceanfront
Inn of the Four Winds Seaside Oceanfront
Rivertide Suites
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls in the Mount Hood National Forest and various hiking trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings.
Cities near Barth Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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