Mill Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Mill Creek Falls
Mill Creek Falls sits amid the forested hills of Oregon, near the small communities of Chenoweth, Rowena and the Mount Hood area. The falls are fed by Mill Creek and offer a peaceful cascade framed by mature timber, making it a great stop for photographers and hikers looking for a classic Pacific Northwest streamside scene. The setting feels remote but is accessible enough for a half-day outing. The nearest designated campground in the available data is Fivemile Butte Lookout, about 15.8 km (roughly 9.8 miles) away, so most visitors treat Mill Creek Falls as a day trip rather than an on-site overnight destination.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Difficulty: moderate. The route is a moderately graded hike with steady climbing portions totaling the listed elevation gain; expect typical natural-trail conditions (dirt tread, roots and occasional rocks). Note: specific USFS trail name/number, and formal surface/grade/class data were not included in the provided information. Hikers should come prepared with sturdy footwear, water and a map or GPS, and check local sources for any seasonal trail advisories before heading out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The area may feature a mix of forested trails and rocky terrain. Seasonal changes can affect water flow, with spring and early summer typically offering the most dramatic views.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not well-documented. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mill Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mill Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Mill Creek Falls, as the water flow is typically at its peak during these seasons. 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.
Safety Information
Trails may be uneven, slippery, or rocky. Visitors should exercise caution, especially near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, and be aware of potential hazards such as falling rocks or swift water currents.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Mosier Creek, 9.2 miles away, not on Mill Creek Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 39 years of record
2.39 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 MOSIER CREEK NEAR MOSIER, OR (15 km away).
Today
Roaring
3 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Roaring
3 cfs
8/10Fri
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid January 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 Chenoweth hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Mill Creek Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Mill Creek Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 52°F to 44°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 3 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 Mill Creek 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
Mill Creek Falls is located approximately 9.3 miles from Chenoweth, 10.0 miles from Rowena, and 10.4 miles from Mount Hood. The coordinates for the falls are 45.5189, -121.3377. Access to the falls may require navigating local roads and potentially a short hike, depending on the specific trailhead used.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is not well-documented, but visitors should expect limited parking near the trailhead or along nearby roads. It is recommended to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,398 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.518850° N, -121.337726° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear, as trails may be uneven or slippery. Bring water and snacks, and check weather conditions before your visit. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Where to Stay
Cousin's Country Inn
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - The Dalles by IHG
Balch Hotel
The Dalles Inn
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
FIVEMILE BUTTE LOOKOUT
9.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Fivemile Butte Lookout is available for reservation year-round. It provides stellar mountain views and access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing. During the winter months, the lookout is popular among hunters and winter sports enthusiasts. During winter driving conditions, from early fall to late spring, the lookout can only be accessed by skiing, snowmobiling or snowshoeing up to 3 miles one way from a parking area at
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the towns of Chenoweth, Rowena, and Mount Hood, as well as other natural landmarks in the region.
Wildlife
The area around Mill Creek Falls may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Cities near Mill Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Mill Creek Falls
6 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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