Elk Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Elk Creek Falls
Elk Creek Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. It is surrounded by lush forest and is part of the Elk Creek drainage area. The waterfall is known for its serene beauty and is a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Elk Creek Falls sits at 499 feet within Siskiyou National Forest, fed by the South Fork Coquille River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Elk Creek Falls (#1151), a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
ELK CREEK FALLS #1151
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.10 miTrail Description
The trail to Elk Creek Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a dense forest. The path is well-maintained and features gentle inclines, making it suitable for most visitors. The trail leads directly to a viewing area for the waterfall.
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 Elk Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Elk Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is most impressive during these seasons due to higher water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Siskiyou National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions, and avoid the trail during heavy rain or snow.
Current Water Conditions
26 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
0.40 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
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 SOUTH FORK COQUILLE RIVER AT POWERS, OR (10 km away).
Today
Strong
26 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
26 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
26 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
26 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
27 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
27 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
26 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late December to late January, peaking in January.
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 Powers 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.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 379 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The ground at the falls is roughly 482 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 341 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 57 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 482 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 379 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Elk Creek Falls can be accessed via Elk Creek Road, which is located off Highway 138 near Idleyld Park, Oregon. The trailhead is marked and typically accessible by car, though road conditions may vary depending on the season.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
499 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.815612° N, -124.011542° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or early summer when water flow is at its peak. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
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This easy 1.2 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Hike to the Coast! Log Cabin on 5 Acres in Bandon
Forested Gold Beach House with Panoramic Ocean Views
Outdoor Adventure Tranquil Creekside Retreat
Charming Grants Pass Cottage w/ Patio & Gas Grill!
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
BALD KNOB LOOKOUT
8.4 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Bald Knob Lookout is perched atop Bald Knob at an elevation of 3,630 feet in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. The lookout offers visitors a unique lodging experience and panoramic views of the surrounding area. Originally developed in 1931 as a lookout site, Bald Knob served as an Aircraft Warning Service (AWS) observation station between 1942 and 1944. The Forest Service removed and replaced the original with the present flat top structure in 1963. The lookout tower is availabl
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Toketee Falls, Watson Falls, and the North Umpqua River. The Umpqua Hot Springs are also a short drive away.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot fish in the creek.
Cities near Elk Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Elk Creek Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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