Lava Island Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Lava Island Falls
Lava Island Falls is a dramatic stretch of rapids on the Deschutes River within the Deschutes National Forest, where the river races over jagged volcanic rock rather than dropping in a single vertical plunge. An island of lava from Lava Butte partially blocks the channel here, producing turbulent water that Wikipedia notes is rated Class 5 for watercraft and can be extremely challenging to navigate. The result is a broad, scenic cascade of churning water and basalt formations that make for striking riverside views and great photo opportunities from shore. The falls are accessed from the Deschutes River Hiking Trail (USFS Trail #2.1), a short out-and-back route managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The hike is an easy, family-friendly way to reach overlooks of the rapids and to experience the volcanic terrain that shapes this section of the river, with interpretive scenery that highlights the region’s lava flows and river dynamics.
The Setting
Lava Island Falls sits at 3,924 feet within Deschutes National Forest, fed by the Bridge Creek, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Deschutes River Hiking (#2.1), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 100 feet of elevation gain. The trail is highly developed (Class 4).
USFS Trail
DESCHUTES RIVER HIKING #2.1
Trail Class
Highly Developed
Surface
Trail Description
USFS Trail: Deschutes River Hiking, Trail #2.1. This out-and-back trail is about 1.5 miles round trip with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain and is rated easy. The tread is native material (unpaved) and the route is classified by the Forest Service as Class 4; the grade is relatively gentle, making the trail suitable for most hikers and families. The path follows the Deschutes River and offers frequent views of the volcanic rock and the turbulent rapids at Lava Island Falls.
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 Lava Island Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lava Island Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the river flow is typically higher due to snowmelt, making the falls more dramatic. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Deschutes National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 42°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the river, as the currents are strong and the rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails to avoid accidents. Be aware of changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
12 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
0.15 ft
Water depth at gauge
42°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 42 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 BRIDGE CREEK BELOW INTAKE, NEAR BEND, OR (15 km away).
Today
Low
12 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
13 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
12 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
12 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
13 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
12 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
13 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to mid June, peaking in May.
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 Seventh Mountain 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 3-meter lidar measures about 46 feet of drop through Lava Island Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 3,922 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 11 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 37 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,922 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 46 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lava Island Falls is located near Bend, Oregon, along the Deschutes River. It can be accessed via the Deschutes River Trail. The nearest parking area is at the Lava Island Day Use Area, which is accessible via Forest Road 41.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Lava Island Day Use Area. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
3,924 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.986847° N, -121.397176° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade along the trail.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Cabin with Private Hot Tub Near the Deschutes River - Free SHARC access
Cozy mountain studio near skiing & town with fast WiFi shared pools & patio
2 Tennis Village..
Paper Birch - Unit 10
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
BIG RIVER
12.7 miles away · 13 sites
Overview Big River Campground is located along the Deschutes River south of the town of Sunriver. Large, open group sites offer a perfect setting for family reunions or group gatherings. Recreation Popular activities in the area include hiking, fishing and rafting in the summer months and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Big River provides the perfect place to launch a canoe or kayak into the Deschutes River. Only non-motorized boating is permitted on the river, and the water i
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Deschutes River Trail, Dillon Falls, and Benham Falls. The city of Bend offers additional recreational opportunities and amenities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for osprey and other birds of prey near the river.
Cities near Lava Island Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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