Hemlock Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 166 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Hemlock Falls

Oregon 90 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Umpqua National Forest NF · US Forest Service
Photo Credits (5)
1.
Unknown authorUnknown author or not provided Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
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Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

200 ft

About Hemlock Falls

Hemlock Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. It is part of the Hemlock Creek Trail and is surrounded by lush forest, making it a serene destination for nature lovers.

The Setting

Hemlock Falls sits at 2,802 feet within Umpqua National Forest, fed by the Steamboat Creek, in the hills of Oregon. The falls drop 90 feet.

Height: 90 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Yakso Falls (70 ft) lies 0.9 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Grotto Falls (25 ft, 5.2 mi).

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The easy hike follows Hemlock Falls (#1520), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is highly developed (Class 4).

USFS Trail

HEMLOCK FALLS #1520

Trail Class

Highly Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

0.46 mi

Trail Description

The trail to Hemlock 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 follows Hemlock Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding forest before reaching the waterfall.

What to Expect

The falls cascade 90 feet. 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 Hemlock Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Hemlock Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring 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 visiting, as heavy rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging. Cell service may be limited in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

166 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 69 years of record

0.83 ft

Water depth at gauge

63°F

Cool

Refreshing for swimming

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 refreshing 63 degrees F, good for a quick swim.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

USGS 14316700
9.2 mi from waterfall
Drainage: 227 sq mi
Altitude: 1,129 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Hemlock Falls is located in the Umpqua National Forest, approximately 50 miles east of Roseburg, Oregon. To reach the trailhead, take Highway 138 to Forest Road 4714, then follow signs to the Hemlock Creek Trailhead.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area available at the Hemlock Creek Trailhead. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.

Elevation

2802 feet above sea level

Coordinates

43.216294° N, -122.728601° W

Land Management

Umpqua National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Where to Stay

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Campground

HORSESHOE BEND CAMPGROUND (OR)

7.1 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

Nearby attractions include Yakso Falls and the Umpqua Hot Springs, both of which are within a short drive.

Wildlife

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter salamanders near the creek.

Cities near Hemlock Falls

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