Kelsey Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Kelsey Falls (historical)
Kelsey Falls (historical) marks a vanished cascade of the Applegate River in southwestern Oregon. The falls were largely altered by construction of the Applegate Dam in the 1980s, and the site now lies within public (PUB) lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management. The parcel is managed by the BLM’s Medford–Grants Pass Field Office, making the area of interest for hikers, history buffs, and anyone exploring the Applegate Lake corridor on BLM-managed lands. Although the original waterfall no longer exists in its natural state, the lakeshore and surrounding BLM parcels still offer pleasant outing opportunities. Nearby trails provide scenic viewpoints along Applegate Lake and interpretive context for the river’s changed landscape; one accessible option on BLM-managed ground is a moderate, family-friendly route that covers 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of gain—an easy half-day hike for visitors wanting a mix of shoreline views and local history.
The Setting
Kelsey Falls (historical) sits at 440 feet within Medford Grants Pass Field Office, fed by the West Fork Cow Creek, in the coastal lowlands 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
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The trail runs across public (PUB) lands managed by the BLM’s Medford–Grants Pass Field Office. There is no USFS trail number associated with this route. Surface, grade and technical class details are not provided in the available data; hikers should plan for a short, moderate hike focused on lake viewpoints and the surrounding BLM-managed landscape rather than a waterfall approach, since the original cascade was altered by Applegate Dam.
What to Expect
Visitors to the area can expect to see the Applegate Lake reservoir, which has replaced the original site of Kelsey Falls. The lake is surrounded by forested hills and offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kelsey Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kelsey Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are ideal for visiting the Applegate Lake area due to favorable weather and recreational opportunities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious around the lake, as water levels and currents can vary. Watch for wildlife and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
26 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 70 years of record
2.48 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Glendale hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Kelsey Falls was historically located along the Applegate River in Jackson County, Oregon. Today, the area is submerged under the Applegate Lake reservoir, created by the Applegate Dam.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is parking available near Applegate Lake for visitors to the area, but the original site of Kelsey Falls is no longer accessible.
Elevation
440 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.697612° N, -123.772024° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map of the area if you plan to explore trails around Applegate Lake. Be aware that the original site of Kelsey Falls is submerged and not visible.
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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. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
The Whale
The Sunset
Porters Paradise
Pacific Reef Hotel & Light Show
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
13.0 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 Applegate Lake, hiking trails in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, and local wineries in the Applegate Valley.
Wildlife
The area around Applegate Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and fish. Visitors may also encounter smaller mammals and reptiles.
Cities near Kelsey Falls (historical)
Nearby Waterfalls
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