Linton Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Linton Falls
Linton Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Willamette National Forest in Oregon. It is part of the Linton Creek drainage and is known for its multi-tiered cascades surrounded by lush forest. The falls are a popular destination for hikers seeking a scenic and moderately challenging trail.
The Setting
Linton Falls sits at 4,314 feet within Willamette National Forest, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Linton Lake (#3519), a 4.2-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
LINTON LAKE #3519
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.10 miTrail Description
The trail to Linton Falls begins at the Linton Lake Trailhead and follows a well-maintained path through dense forest. The trail skirts the edge of Linton Lake before continuing upstream along Linton Creek. The final approach to the falls may involve some scrambling over rocks and uneven terrain.
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 Linton Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Linton Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the falls are typically at their fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Willamette National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery and the water current is strong. Check trail conditions before visiting, especially during winter or after heavy rain.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Mckenzie River, 11.1 miles away, not on Linton Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
574 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 67 years of record
6.16 ft
Water depth at gauge
44°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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 very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Expect crystal clear visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.7 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 MCKENZIE R BLW TRAIL BR DAM NR BELKNAP SPRINGS, OR (18 km away).
Today
Strong
574 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
594 cfs
9/10Thu
Strong
615 cfs
10/10Fri
Roaring
649 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
697 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
677 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
685 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early 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 Black Butte Ranch hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Linton Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded strong flow slows freezing
Linton Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 49°F to 39°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 536 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Oregon.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Linton Falls is accessed via the Linton Lake Trailhead, located off Highway 126 near McKenzie Bridge, Oregon. The trailhead is well-marked and has a small parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Linton Lake Trailhead, but it may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
4,314 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.159840° N, -121.884491° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy or slippery in places. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Be cautious near the falls, as rocks can be slippery.
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With 4.2 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
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.
Where to Stay
Sisters Inn & Suites
The Aerie Suites by AvantStay
Wall Street Suites
Campfire Hotel
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
Alder Springs Campground
1.9 miles away · 0 sites
This small, rustic site is right on the side of the historic McKenzie Pass Highway. Surrounded by towering Douglas fir trees, this is a perfect spot to be on a warm day.Access to Linton Lake Trailhead in the Three Sisters Wilderness is immediately across the highway from the campground.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Proxy Falls, Sahalie Falls, and the McKenzie River Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and other larger animals, especially during dawn and dusk.
Cities near Linton Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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