Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Benham Falls
Benham Falls sits on the Deschutes River between the resort community of Sunriver and the town of Bend, Oregon, and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Deschutes National Forest. Rather than a single vertical drop, Benham Falls are a powerful set of rapids — the largest falls on the upper Deschutes — formed about 6,000 years ago when lava from nearby Lava Butte dammed the river and created what was once called Lake Benham. The river here pitches about 22.5°, and the rapids are rated Class 5 for watercraft, making the stretch both dramatic to watch and hazardous to run. The site is a favorite for day hikers and sightseers drawn to its churning water, basalt-lined channel, and riverside forest. The Forest Service maintains a short overlook trail (BENHAM FALLS OVERLOOK, Trail #2.15) that delivers clear views of the rapids; beyond the overlook, trails along the Deschutes offer a pleasant out-and-back route through classic Central Oregon scenery. Visitors should respect posted safety signs and the force of the river when viewing the falls.
The Setting
Benham Falls sits at 4,131 feet within Deschutes National Forest, fed by the Bridge Creek, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Benham Falls Overlook (#2.15), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
BENHAM FALLS OVERLOOK #2.15
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.16 miTrail Description
This outing is commonly done as a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain (moderate difficulty). The final spur to the viewpoint is the USFS BENHAM FALLS OVERLOOK (Trail #2.15): a 0.16-mile segment recorded in GIS data, constructed on native material and rated Class 3. The short overlook trail is the maintained approach to the main viewing area; the overall route gains moderate elevation and provides river views and access to the Deschutes corridor. Follow USFS signage for the trailhead and stay on designated paths for safety.
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 Benham Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Benham Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is typically at its peak due to snowmelt. However, the falls are accessible and enjoyable year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Deschutes National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails and avoid getting too close to the river, as the currents are strong and can be dangerous. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BRIDGE CREEK BELOW INTAKE, NEAR BEND, OR (16 km away).
Today
Strong
14 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
14 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
13 cfs
10/10Mon
Strong
14 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
13 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
13 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
14 cfs
10/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to mid June, peaking in May.
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 Sunriver 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 85 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 4,131 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 94 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 64 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,131 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 85 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Benham Falls is located near Bend, Oregon, and can be accessed via the Cascade Lakes Highway. From Bend, take the Cascade Lakes Highway to Forest Road 41, then follow signs to the Benham Falls Day Use Area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a parking area at the Benham Falls Day Use Area, which provides access to the trail leading to the falls.
Elevation
4,131 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.937832° N, -121.411660° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during the summer. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be uneven in some areas. Bring water and sunscreen, especially during warmer months.
Where to Stay
Loft home with private hot tub deck grill fireplace & 10 SHARC passes
Cabin with Private Hot Tub Near the Deschutes River - Free SHARC access
2 Tennis Village..
Dog-Friendly Condo Steps from the Village with Balcony WiFi & Gas Fireplace
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
BIG RIVER
9.3 miles away · 13 sites
Overview Big River Campground is located along the Deschutes River south of the town of Sunriver. Large, open group sites offer a perfect setting for family reunions or group gatherings. Recreation Popular activities in the area include hiking, fishing and rafting in the summer months and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Big River provides the perfect place to launch a canoe or kayak into the Deschutes River. Only non-motorized boating is permitted on the river, and the water i
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Nearby Attractions
Lava Lands Visitor Center, Lava Butte, Sunriver Resort, and the Deschutes River Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for osprey and bald eagles near the river.
Cities near Benham Falls
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