Lost Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Lost Creek Falls
Lost Creek Falls is a serene and relatively lesser-known waterfall located in the Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon. It is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking a quiet nature experience.
The Setting
Lost Creek Falls sits at 1,473 feet along the South Umpqua River, in the foothills of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Lost Creek Falls is short and easy, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a forested area with minimal elevation gain, leading to a small but picturesque waterfall.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lost Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lost Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain or during winter months. Always stay on the designated trail to avoid damaging the environment or getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 15.7 miles away
157 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 1 years of record
0.94 ft
Water depth at gauge
67°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display. Water temperature is a refreshing 67 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SOUTH UMPQUA RIVER AT MELROSE, OR (25 km away).
Today
Roaring
165 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
159 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
151 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
147 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
160 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
195 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
232 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid April, peaking in March.
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 Lookingglass 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.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 211 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,479 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 187 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 126 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,479 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 211 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
Lost Creek Falls is located near the Lost Creek Campground in the Mount Hood National Forest. It can be accessed via Forest Road 1825. Visitors should check local maps and trailhead signs for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Lost Creek Campground or nearby trailhead areas. Availability may vary depending on the season and visitor volume.
Elevation
1,473 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.158447° N, -123.732586° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls and surrounding forest. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may be slippery during wet seasons.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn & Suites Roseburg
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Roseburg North by IHG
Terraluna Inn
Umpqua Valley 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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Lost Creek Campground, Trillium Lake, and other trails in the Mount Hood National Forest.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, deer, and other small forest animals. Be cautious of potential wildlife such as bears or cougars, though sightings are rare.
Cities near Lost Creek Falls
Other waterfalls named Lost Creek Falls
4 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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