Clover Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 138 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Clover Falls

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Umpqua National Forest NF · US Forest Service
Photo Credits (5)
1.
ex_magician CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr
2.
ex_magician CC BY 2.0 · Flickr
3.
ex_magician CC BY 2.0 · Flickr
4.
ex_magician CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr
5.
ex_magician CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

4.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

400 ft

About Clover Falls

Clover Falls—historically called Upper Hemlock Falls—drops from Hemlock Creek in the heart of the Umpqua National Forest in Douglas County, Oregon. Nestled north of Hemlock Lake and its campground, this lush cascade sits on USFS-managed land and is typically accessed from the Lake in the Woods Campground. The area is part of a privileged stretch of creek where Hemlock Creek and nearby streams form a cluster of falls; Hemlock Falls, Yakso Falls, and Tributary Falls all lie within about a mile, making this a rewarding stop for waterfall collectors. The setting is quintessential Oregon forest: mossy banks, tall conifers, and the steady voice of running water. Clover Falls is ideal for a short outing from nearby campgrounds or as one highlight on a longer day exploring the Umpqua’s cascades—bring a camera and waterproof footwear, as the approach threads close to the creek and can be damp underfoot.

The Setting

Clover Falls sits at 3,576 feet within Umpqua National Forest, fed by the Steamboat Creek, in the mountains of Oregon.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Hemlock Falls (90 ft) lies 1.0 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Yakso Falls (70 ft, 1.3 mi) and Grotto Falls (25 ft, 6.1 mi).

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows Nfst 2700499 (#T2700499), a 4.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 400 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).

USFS Trail

NFST-2700499 #T2700499

Trail Class

Moderately Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

0.12 mi

Trail Description

The signed spur to Clover Falls is maintained as USFS Trail NFST-2700499 (Trail #T2700499). According to USFS data this segment is Class 2 with a native-material surface and a typical grade of 12–20%; the recorded GIS length for the NFST-2700499 segment is 0.12 miles. The longer outing to reach the area is commonly described as an out-and-back of about 4.0 miles total with roughly 400 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate; expect uneven native tread and short, fairly steep pitches consistent with the listed grade.

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 Clover Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $5.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Clover Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring snow and icy conditions.

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

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail can become hazardous during heavy rain or snow. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

138 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 69 years of record

0.71 ft

Water depth at gauge

57°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 57 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 14316700
10.0 mi from waterfall
Drainage: 227 sq mi
Altitude: 1,129 ft

Know when to go.

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Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Clover Falls is accessible via the McKenzie River Trail, which is located off Highway 126 in the Willamette National Forest. The trailhead can be reached by car, and signage for the McKenzie River Trail is typically visible.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at designated trailheads along the McKenzie River Trail. Availability may vary depending on the season and time of day.

Elevation

3576 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.206020° N, -122.715830° W

Land Management

Umpqua National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Where to Stay

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Nearby Campground

HORSESHOE BEND CAMPGROUND (OR)

7.2 miles away · 25 sites

Reservable

Overview Horseshoe Bend Campground is situated in a stand of old growth Douglas fir, sugar pine, and deciduous trees, on the banks of the Wild & Scenic North Umpqua River. The campground offers the perfect setting for families, anglers, whitewater enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape and relax in their natural surroundings. Recreation Horseshoe Bend Campground is in a prime location for many outdoor activities including hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, swimming, and whitewater rafting

Book on Recreation.gov

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Other waterfalls along the McKenzie River Trail, such as Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls. The McKenzie River itself offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Wildlife

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and other larger animals, especially during dawn and dusk.

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