Chichester Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 24 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Chichester Falls

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Willamette National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Chichester Falls

Chichester Falls tumbles from Andy Creek just east of Fall Creek Lake in Lane County, Oregon, and sits quietly within the Willamette National Forest managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This lesser-known cascade rewards hikers with a peaceful forest setting without the crowds—access is off Forest Road 18 (Big Fall Creek Road), roughly a half mile from Bedrock Campground, making an easy overnight option for those who want to extend their visit (Bedrock Campground is about 0.69 km away). The most direct route follows USFS Trail JONES (Trail #3472). The Forest Service trail inventory lists JONES as a native-surface, Class 3 trail with typical grades of 12–20% (GIS length 5.41 miles), but many guide sources describe the common out-and-back outing to the falls as a roughly 2.4-mile hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain—a moderate day trip for most avid hikers. Whether you’re camping nearby or making a half-day excursion, expect a quietly scenic forest walk to a tucked-away waterfall on Andy Creek.

The Setting

Chichester Falls sits at 1,115 feet within Willamette National Forest, fed by the Winberry Creek, in the foothills of Oregon.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows Jones (#3472), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).

USFS Trail

JONES #3472

Trail Class

Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

5.41 mi

Trail Description

Trail JONES (USFS Trail #3472) is the Forest Service route to Chichester Falls. According to USFS data the trail is Class 3 with a native-material tread and typical grades of 12–20%; the inventory lists a GIS length of 5.41 miles. The commonly hiked route to the falls is an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 ft of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Start from Forest Road 18 (Big Fall Creek Road) near Bedrock Campground (≈0.5 mile), and expect uneven, natural-surface tread and several steeper pitches along the way—good footwear and steady footing are recommended.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful and secluded waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be less crowded than more popular waterfalls in Oregon, offering a tranquil experience.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chichester Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Chichester Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter conditions may make access more challenging.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Willamette National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Cell phone service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

24 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 43 years of record

1.14 ft

Water depth at gauge

58°F

Cold

Bracing — limit time in water

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 bracing 58 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.

USGS 14150800
8.4 mi from waterfall
Drainage: 44 sq mi
Altitude: 864 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Chichester Falls is located in a remote area of Oregon. Access may require navigating forest roads, and a reliable map or GPS is recommended. Specific directions are not widely documented, so visitors should research thoroughly before planning a trip.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along forest roads or at a nearby trailhead. Be prepared for limited or informal parking options.

Elevation

1115 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.970176° N, -122.537889° W

Land Management

Willamette National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Where to Stay

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Nearby Campground

Bedrock Campground

0.4 miles away · 26 sites

Walking distance Reservable

Overview Bedrock is located in a dynamic landscape setting shaped by fire, this 22 site camground is situated on a terrace above Fall Creek where the hillsides surrounding the camp offer an impressive fireweed bloom display during the summer months. Expect heavy use on summer weekends from visitors escaping high temperatures in nearby urban areas. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.

Book on Recreation.gov

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Other waterfalls and hiking trails in the surrounding forested areas of Oregon.

Wildlife

The area may be home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.

Cities near Chichester Falls

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