LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Meadow Brooks Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Meadow Brooks Falls
Meadow Brooks Falls is a tucked-away cascade framed by lush, coniferous forest—a peaceful payoff for a short day hike. The falls are a quieter alternative to busier Oregon attractions, delivering a tranquil setting where dappled light and the sound of falling water make for a restorative outing. The trail ends at a pleasant viewpoint that rewards the moderate effort with close-up views of the cascade and surrounding woods. While there’s no staffed trailhead listed here, the nearest public campground is in the North Fork John Day Ranger District, about 19.1 km away, making this a great half-day adventure for hikers exploring the broader district. Expect a shaded, forested experience ideal for spring wildflowers and summer escapes from the heat.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The path is well-shaded as it winds through forest, featuring a generally gentle average grade (~2.8%), making it accessible to hikers comfortable with moderate climbs. Trail surface is a typical wooded tread with natural footing; no specific USFS trail number or surface classification is provided for this route, so plan for uneven ground and bring appropriate footwear.
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 Meadow Brooks Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Meadow Brooks Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter conditions may make access more difficult.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 47°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as it may become slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Middle Fork John Day River, 10.3 miles away, not on Meadow Brooks Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
25 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
1.77 ft
Water depth at gauge
47°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 47 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 MIDDLE FORK JOHN DAY RIVER AT RITTER, OR (17 km away).
Today
Moderate
27 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
26 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
26 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
26 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
29 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
29 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
27 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid June, peaking in April.
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 Ukiah 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 bare-earth surface loses about 111 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 3,341 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 110 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,341 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 111 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Meadow Brooks Falls is located in the Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and rough in some sections. Visitors should check local conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Elevation
3,297 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.963343° N, -118.958404° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Check road and trail conditions before heading out, as forest roads can be challenging to navigate.
Where to Stay
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
North Fork John Day Ranger District
11.9 miles away · 0 sites
The North Fork John Day District is 465,000 acres in the heart of the Blue Mountains. Diversity and complexity are key words in management of this land and its abundant resources. Plant communities range from juniper/sage/bunch grass at the 2,600 feet elevation in the Potamus Creek area to subalpine fir/whitebark pine habitats at the 8,000 feet elevation near Vinegar Hill in the Greenhorn Mountain Scenic Area
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls in the Mount Hood National Forest and various hiking trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Meadow Brooks Falls
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