Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.8 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Lower Shellburg Falls
Lower Shellburg Falls sits in the Shellburg Falls Recreation Area within the Santiam State Forest, flowing down Stout Creek canyon amid mossy, Douglas-fir–lined slopes. The site is on lands managed under the Forest Development Fund (Board of Forestry) with an SRMA designation (land owner: SDNR; manager: SLB), and it forms part of a compact cascade system that draws hikers looking for short, scenic waterfall loops. The better-known Shellburg Falls lies upstream from Lower Shellburg; Wikipedia notes Shellburg Falls drops roughly 100 feet, averages about 10 feet across, and is located about 2.5 miles north of Lyons, with Stasel Falls only about half a mile from Shellburg. A pleasant option for a half-day outing, Lower Shellburg is accessed via the recreation-area trail network that also reaches Upper Shellburg and other nearby falls. Trails funnel you into the Stout Creek canyon where multiple viewpoints and seasonal flows make for excellent photos and quiet forest time. Because the nearest developed campground is over 12 km away, most visitors treat this as a day hike while enjoying the shaded canyons and cascades.
The Setting
Lower Shellburg Falls sits at 1,184 feet within Forest Development Fund (Board Of Forestry), fed by the North Santiam River, in the foothills of Oregon.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Shellburg Falls (100 ft) lies 0.2 miles to the north. Also nearby: Stout Creek Falls (34 ft, 1.7 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.8-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Lower Shellburg Falls is an out-and-back route of about 2.8 miles round trip with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty. Expect dirt and gravel tread with some uneven and potentially muddy or slippery stretches after rain; the route passes through dense, shaded woodland and provides views of nearby falls along the way. The hike’s length and steady gain make it a moderate-class day hike suitable for most fit walkers, and the trail’s forested character keeps conditions cool and scenic year-round.
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 Lower Shellburg Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Shellburg Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a quieter experience, though trails could be icy or muddy.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks and muddy sections, especially after rain. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or damaging the environment. Check for any trail closures or weather advisories before your visit.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NORTH SANTIAM RIVER AT MEHAMA, OR (2 km away).
Today
Moderate
1824 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
1657 cfs
6/10Sun
Low
1557 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
1617 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
1668 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
1792 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
1964 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid November to late January, peaking in November.
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 Lyons 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 268 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,182 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 121 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 121 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, the falls 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
- 1,182 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 268 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
Lower Shellburg Falls is located within the Santiam State Forest, near the town of Mehama, Oregon. Visitors typically access the falls via the Shellburg Falls Trailhead, which is reachable by driving along Shellburg Road SE. The trailhead is well-marked, but the road leading to it may be gravel and uneven in some sections.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Shellburg Falls Trailhead. The parking area is relatively small, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends or during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,184 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.810219° N, -122.608308° W
Land Management
Managed by SLB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy or slippery. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Arrive early to secure parking, and check for any trail or forest closures before your visit.
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With 2.8 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
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
The 1908 Bungalow
Oregon Garden Resort
La Quinta by Wyndham Salem OR
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Salem
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.
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Overview Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site is closed due to heavy wildfire damage. Nearby Attractions:Canyon Creek Recreation Site is located downstream from Elkhorn Valley and is open for day use including swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Fishermen's Bend Recreation Site, along Hwy 22 closer to Mill City, is open to day use where you can picnic, hold events and gatherings, relax, cool off, fish and put in a non-motorized boat. Along Forest Road 2209 in the Willamette National Forest the sites Thr
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Nearby Attractions
Upper Shellburg Falls, Silver Falls State Park, and other trails within the Santiam State Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter native plants and wildflowers along the trail.
Cities near Lower Shellburg Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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