Little Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Little Falls
Little Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the coastal forests of northwest Oregon, a short drive from the towns of Nehalem, Bayside Gardens, and Wheeler. The falls sit within the Nehalem River land unit and are managed by the Bureau of Land Management; the area also falls under the Nehalem River’s Wild and Scenic River designation, giving the corridor special recognition for its scenic and recreational values. Reaching the falls rewards you with a peaceful, green setting where the stream threads through mossy banks and old-growth pockets typical of Oregon’s coast range. It’s an inviting outing for hikers who enjoy shorter, moderately paced walks and local photographers looking for an intimate waterfall scene rather than a large plunge.
The Setting
Little Falls sits at 299 feet within Nehalem River, fed by the Nehalem River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The access trail to Little Falls is an out-and-back route totaling about 2.4 miles with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. Trail routing follows forested terrain; available information does not include a USFS trail name/number or formal surface/grade/class data from USFS sources. Expect natural tread and be prepared for uneven or potentially muddy sections underfoot—sturdy footwear and basic trail navigation are recommended.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and secluded waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be quiet and less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Oregon.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have higher flow due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks and uneven terrain. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly. Always let someone know your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
98 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 85 years of record
1.59 ft
Water depth at gauge
58°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 58 degrees F, limit your time 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 NEHALEM RIVER NEAR FOSS, OR (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
106 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
113 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
111 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
114 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
138 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
143 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
152 cfs
5/10Best window: Mon — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late November to late January, 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 Nehalem 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: 1-meter lidar measures about 26 feet of drop through Little Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 300 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 15 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 300 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 26 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Falls is located approximately 15.6 miles from Nehalem, Oregon. The coordinates for the waterfall are 45.7996, -123.6182. Access may involve driving on forest roads, so a reliable vehicle is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby forest roads or designated pullouts. Ensure your vehicle is not obstructing traffic.
Elevation
299 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.799555° N, -123.618181° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device, as trail markings may be limited. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make trails slippery.
Where to Stay
Hallmark Resort in Cannon Beach
Inn at the Prom Oceanfront
Inn at Cannon Beach
Gilbert Inn Seaside
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the towns of Nehalem, Bayside Gardens, and Wheeler, as well as the Nehalem River and surrounding forested areas.
Wildlife
The area may host a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Little Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Little Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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