LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Copper Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Copper Creek Falls
Copper Creek Falls tumbles from Copper Creek just before it joins Eagle Creek at Bench Canyon, tucked into the forests of Union County, Oregon. The falls sit on USFS-managed ground within the Whitman National Forest, and arrive framed by dense stands of mixed-conifer that make this a year-round green, peaceful spot for a nature break. The cascade is compact but photogenic, and its setting gives a true quiet-woods feel away from busier Western Oregon attractions. Access is commonly made from a riverside route that parallels the creek corridor for more than 15 miles, and many visitors use a shorter 2.4-mile out-and-back approach to reach the falls. Expect a moderate hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain; nearby camping is available at the Two Color Guard Station campground, roughly 6.26 km away, making Copper Creek Falls a nice half-day destination for hikers who want to extend into an overnight in the Whitman National Forest.
The Setting
Copper Creek Falls sits at 6,017 feet within Whitman National Forest, fed by the East Fork Wallowa River, in the high mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail (round trip) with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating as recorded for the access route to Copper Creek Falls. The trail follows a forested corridor that runs alongside Copper Creek and the larger river system for which the approach trail is known to parallel for over 15 miles, offering plenty of shade and creek-side scenery. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Whitman National Forest, the route ends at the base of the waterfall; hikers should be prepared for native-trail conditions and moderate uphill sections on the return.
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 Copper Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Copper Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Whitman National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 39°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
The trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall and avoid climbing on wet rocks. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
11 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 53 years of record
4.70 ft
Water depth at gauge
39°F
Dangerously coldRisk of cold shock
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is dangerously cold at 39 degrees F, avoid prolonged contact.
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 EAST FORK WALLOWA RIVER NEAR JOSEPH, OR (24 km away).
Today
Strong
11 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
11 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
11 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
12 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
10 cfs
10/10Mon
Strong
11 cfs
8/10Tue
Roaring
11 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early August, peaking in July.
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 Wallowa Lake 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 132 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 6,041 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 138 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 185 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,041 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 132 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Copper Creek Falls is located in the Umpqua National Forest. Access typically involves driving along forest roads, which may be unpaved and require a high-clearance vehicle during certain seasons. Directions can vary depending on the starting point, so it is recommended to consult a map or GPS for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
6,017 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.094401° N, -117.386033° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail and areas near the waterfall can be slippery. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the trail with fewer crowds.
This trail sits at 6,017 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 24% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Where to Stay
Eagle Cap Chalets
Prairie Creek Condo
Serendipity Cottage
Echo Lake Upper
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
TWO COLOR GUARD STATION
3.9 miles away · 1 sites
Overview The Civilian Conservation Corps originally constructed the Two Color Guard Station in the 1930s for use as crew quarters and bunkhouse. The original building was removed in 1976. The current guard station was built in 1959. Two Color Guard Station is open June through October. Guests can drive to it except after significant snowfall, when it's only accessible by snowmobile. Guests staying in the later part of the season are encouraged to bring extra supplies to ensure a comfortable and e
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Toketee Falls, Watson Falls, and the Umpqua Hot Springs.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Copper Creek Falls
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