Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Lee Falls
Lee Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall set within the Tualatin River land unit of the Wild and Scenic Rivers system, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The fall drops into a small, fern-lined pool and is prized for its tranquil, tucked-away feel — a great short escape for hikers who want a peaceful nature stop without a long backcountry commitment. The BLM management of the area helps preserve the river corridor’s natural character, making Lee Falls a pleasant spot for photography, seasonal stream watching, and a shady rest on warm days. The approach to the falls is inviting and unhurried: an easy out-and-back hike that follows a creek through mixed forest, offering close-up views of riparian vegetation and the sound of running water the whole way. Because the site lies within the Tualatin River WSR unit, visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles to help keep this tucked-away stretch of river corridor pristine for others to enjoy.
The Setting
Lee Falls sits at 374 feet within Tualatin River, fed by the Tualatin River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
University Falls (55 ft) lies 10.7 miles to the northwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.4-mile out and back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: approximately 2.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain: about 200 feet. Difficulty: easy. Surface: predominantly dirt and gravel; some sections can become muddy after rain. The route closely follows a creek corridor on a well-defined footpath and ends at the waterfall and its small pool. The trail is mostly gently sloping (roughly a 1.6% average grade) and suitable for most hikers looking for a short, low-effort outing; expect class 1 walking conditions on an established trail.
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 Lee Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lee Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to seasonal rains. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides drier trail conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. The trail may be muddy or slick after rain, so proper footwear is essential. Cell service may be limited in the area.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TUALATIN RIVER NEAR DILLEY, OR (13 km away).
Today
Strong
226 cfs
7/10Tomorrow
Strong
204 cfs
10/10Sun
Moderate
180 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
180 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
201 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
182 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
167 cfs
10/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
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.
3-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 61 feet through Lee Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 374 feet.
The ground changes about 81 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 47 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 374 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 61 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lee Falls is located near Gaston, Oregon, and can be accessed via Lee Falls Trailhead. The trailhead is off a gravel road, and directions may require GPS assistance as signage is limited.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but it is limited and may require parking along the gravel road. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Hours
Elevation
374 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.465153° N, -123.284647° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy in places. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the trailhead or along the trail. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
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This easy 2.4 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
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Nearby Campground
Dovre Recreation Site
14 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
Nearby attractions include the Tillamook State Forest and Hagg Lake, which offer additional hiking, fishing, and recreational opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Lee Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Lee Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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