LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Haines Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Haines Falls
Haines Falls is a tucked-away cascade set inside a City Greenspace, managed by the City and officially designated LOTH. The setting is quietly wooded and verdant, making it a great short escape for hikers and photographers who prefer less-crowded natural spots. The falls have a peaceful, intimate feel rather than a developed tourist facility, so visitors should come expecting a low-key outdoor experience. The approach follows a moderate out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible to most hikers who are comfortable with a steady climb. There’s no campground within 10 km; the nearest developed camping is the Dovre Recreation Site, about 20.75 km away. Because the site is managed as city greenspace, check City resources for seasonality, access rules, and recent trail updates before you go.
The Setting
Haines Falls sits at 581 feet within City Greenspace, fed by the Tualatin River, in the foothills of Oregon.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
University Falls (55 ft) lies 10.0 miles to the northwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, 2.4 miles total with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Trail surface, grade breakdown, and formal trail class are not documented in the available land-unit data, so expect typical natural-surface conditions (roots, rocks, occasional mud) and a steady uphill grade on the approach. The route is managed within the City Greenspace (Manager: CITY, Designation: LOTH); consult City trail notices for current conditions, closures, or parking information before visiting.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the sound of cascading water and surrounding forested areas. The trail may be less maintained compared to more popular destinations.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Haines Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Haines Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have higher flow due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may be uneven or slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and be prepared for remote conditions.
Current Water Conditions
178 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
11.15 ft
Water depth at gauge
60°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
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 a bracing 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.4 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 TUALATIN RIVER NEAR DILLEY, OR (15 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
178 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
168 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
168 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
187 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
158 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
162 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
199 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid December to late February, 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 Cherry Grove 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 192 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 582 feet.
The ground changes about 207 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 25 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and 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
- 582 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 192 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Haines Falls is located in Oregon, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider arriving early.
Elevation
581 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.465373° N, -123.320280° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Best Western University Inn and Suites
Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Hillsboro
La Quinta by Wyndham Portland NW
Hampton Inn & Suites Tigard
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
Dovre Recreation Site
12.9 miles away · 11 sites
Overview Want to camp? Camping season is generally May-September, with Alder Glen and Elk Bend remaining open through the weekend following General Western Oregon Coast 2nd Season for elk. During months with reduced sunlight, potable water may be turned off. Be prepared to bring your own wash and drinking water. Reserve a site at one of our four campgrounds on recreation.gov or pay when you arrive for non-reserved campsites using the Recreation.gov Mobile App. You must download before you reach t
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in the area may include hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Specific recommendations are not documented.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Oregon wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with wildlife.
Cities near Haines Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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