Marion Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
6.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Marion Falls
Marion Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Willamette National Forest in Oregon. It is part of the Marion Creek drainage and is known for its serene surroundings and lush forested setting. The waterfall is often visited alongside nearby Gatch Falls, as they are located close to each other.
The Setting
Marion Falls sits at 3,999 feet within Willamette National Forest, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Marion Mountain (#3435), a 6.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 800 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
MARION MOUNTAIN #3435
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.84 miTrail Description
The trail to Marion Falls begins at the Marion Lake Trailhead and follows a well-maintained path through old-growth forest. The trail is relatively gentle at first but includes some moderate elevation gain as you approach the falls. A side trail leads to a viewpoint for Marion Falls, offering a stunning view of the cascading water surrounded by dense greenery.
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 Marion Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent parking pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Marion Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its 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 48°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather and trail conditions before your visit, as snow or rain can make the trail more challenging. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Blowout Creek, 13.9 miles away, not on Marion Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
20 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 28 years of record
3.08 ft
Water depth at gauge
48°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 48 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 BLOWOUT CREEK NEAR DETROIT, OR (22 km away).
Today
Roaring
21 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
20 cfs
8/10Thu
Roaring
22 cfs
8/10Fri
Roaring
29 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
37 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
40 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
40 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late April, 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 Camp Sherman hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Marion Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Marion 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
- 16 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
The Terrain Around Marion Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Marion Falls is accessed via the Marion Lake Trailhead, which is located off Marion Creek Road (Forest Road 2255). The trailhead is approximately 16 miles from the town of Detroit, Oregon. Visitors should follow the Marion Lake Trail and then take a side trail to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Marion Lake Trailhead. A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent parking pass is typically required.
Elevation
3,999 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.566410° N, -121.875506° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Check trail conditions before visiting, particularly in winter or early spring when snow may be present.
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With 6.5 miles and 800 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
Dog-friendly house with pool hot tub fitness room fireplace grill & deck
Rushing River Retreat
The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
Family-Friendly Home with Fireplaces Firepit Gas Grill Free WiFi Central AC
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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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Gatch Falls, Marion Lake, and the surrounding Willamette National Forest, which offers additional hiking and camping opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also see fish in the creek.
Cities near Marion Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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