Are there fees or permits required for Clearwater Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Clearwater Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Clearwater Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Clearwater Falls.

Live Conditions · 69 ft³/s · About average

Clearwater Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Clearwater Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Clearwater Falls.

Oregon • 30 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Umpqua National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

JasePhotos CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

@bastique CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

acase1968 CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Udo S CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

acase1968 CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Clearwater Falls

Clearwater Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. It is known for its cascading flow over moss-covered rocks, creating a serene and photogenic scene. The waterfall is fed by underground springs, ensuring a steady flow year-round.

The Setting

Clearwater Falls sits at 4,213 feet within Umpqua National Forest, fed by the Clearwater River Abv Trap Ck, in the mountains of Oregon. The falls drop 30 feet.

Height: 30 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Watson Falls (272 ft) lies 8.2 miles to the west. Also nearby: Lemolo Falls (102 ft, 6.7 mi) and Whitehorse Falls (15 ft, 3.9 mi).

Watson Falls Lemolo Falls Whitehorse Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows Nfst 4785181 (#T4785181), 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 moderately developed (Class 2).

USFS Trail

NFST-4785181 #T4785181

Trail Class

Moderately Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

0.09 mi

Trail Description

The trail to Clearwater Falls is a very short and easy walk, making it accessible for most visitors. The path is well-maintained and leads directly to a viewing area near the base of the falls. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, and the sound of the cascading water adds to the tranquil atmosphere.

What to Expect

The falls drop 30 feet. 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 Clearwater Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Clearwater Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the surrounding vegetation is lush and vibrant. However, the falls maintain a steady flow year-round, making them a great destination in any season.

Seasonal Access

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

Safety Information

The rocks near the falls can be slippery, so exercise caution when exploring. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid feeding animals. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Barely Flowing

69 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

7 16 155 232

Based on 98 years of record

3.61 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

CLEARWATER RIVER ABV TRAP CK NR TOKETEE FALLS, OR

USGS 14314500

3.0 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 42 sq mi

Altitude: 3,863 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Clearwater Falls is located off Highway 138, also known as the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway. It is approximately 70 miles east of Roseburg, Oregon. The falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the parking area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area near the trailhead, which is free to use. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.

Elevation

4213 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.248709° N, -122.227901° W

Land Management

Umpqua National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early during summer weekends to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls can be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

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.

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

BUNKER HILL CAMPGROUND

5.3 miles away · 5 sites

Reservable

Overview This campground clings to the northwest shore of Lemolo Lake beneath the heavily wooded Bunker Hill. Bald eagles often soar above the lodgepole pine forest. Bunker Hill Campground is popular with fishermen.Recreation Boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing and water skiing top the list of recreational activities at the campground. Lemolo Lake provides outdoor enthusiasts with a multitude of recreational opportunities year round. The forested shoreline and mountainous backdrop prov

Book on Recreation.gov