Groundhog Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Groundhog Falls
Groundhog Falls is a tucked-away cascade in Oregon that rewards visitors seeking a quiet, forested retreat. The waterfall sits amid dense stands of native trees and offers a peaceful setting for photography, wildlife watching, or a short nature escape. Because it’s lesser-known, expect fewer crowds and a more solitary experience than at popular day-use sites. The falls and access route lie on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) under the Vale Malheur Field Office (designation: PUB). The hike to the viewpoint is a moderate out-and-back route of 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so come prepared with sturdy footwear and water. The nearest developed campground is Three Forks, roughly 14.6 km away, so plan accordingly if you’re looking to camp overnight.
The Setting
Groundhog Falls sits at 4,764 feet within Vale Malheur Field Office, fed by the Owyhee River, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and an overall difficulty rating of moderate. The route travels through forested terrain and can be uneven or rocky in places, so hikers should expect natural tread and occasional roots or stone steps rather than paved surfaces. Suitable for day hikers with moderate fitness, the trail leads directly to a quiet viewpoint of Groundhog Falls; follow standard Leave No Trace practices while visiting BLM-managed lands.
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 Groundhog Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Groundhog Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and avoid venturing too close to the edge. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 29 miles away
114 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 76 years of record
1.42 ft
Water depth at gauge
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.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Groundhog Falls is located in a remote area of Oregon. Access may require driving on unpaved forest roads, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Specific directions should be confirmed with local resources or maps.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of informal pullouts along the road. Visitors should ensure they are not blocking access roads or trails.
Elevation
4764 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.675711° N, -117.146807° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become muddy after rain.
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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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
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
Three Forks
9.1 miles away · 0 sites
Overview:One of the most remote locations in Oregon, the Three Forks Recreation Site offers camping, fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities in the canyonland confluence of the North Fork Owyhee, Middle Fork Owyhee, and Owyhee Rivers.Know Before You Go:The Soldier Creek Loop Road can be impassable when wet or muddy, so plan accordingly. It is designated a BLM Watchable Wildlife road, and is enjoyed by a variety of users – including outdoor enthusiasts, birders, ranchers, upland bird and big
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Jordan Valley, Oregon
Unnamed Spring Owyhee County 4
Three Forks Hot Spring flows at 95°F on BLM land at 3,992 feet in the North Fork Owyhee River Canyon, creating a 42.5°F tempera...
Canters Hot Spring
Canters Hot Spring produces 120-degree water that flows 70.2 degrees above ambient temperature near Delamar Way in Owyhee Count...
Scott Spring
Scott Spring flows at 68°F in Idaho's Owyhee County, emerging at 3,886 feet elevation just across the Oregon border near Homeda...
Tudors Spring
Tudors Spring emerges at 68°F on the Owyhee Plateau at 3,892 feet elevation, creating a subtle 15.2-degree temperature differen...
Hot Spring
Hot Spring flows at 106°F along Owyhee Reservoir at 2,740 feet elevation on Bureau of Reclamation lands, sitting 58 meters from...
Unnamed Spring Owyhee County 2
At 2,730 feet in Owyhee County BLM territory, this spring produces 145°F (63°C) water with extreme alkalinity: pH 9.5, the high...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Jordan Valley, Oregon on SoakingSprings.
Explore Oregon springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Groundhog Falls
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