Nehalem 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 Nehalem Falls
Nehalem Falls is a picturesque cascade on the Nehalem River tucked into Tillamook State Forest. Though modest in size, the falls drop through a lush, forested canyon to create a peaceful scene that’s popular with day hikers looking for an accessible river view and a quiet woodland outing. The falls and access corridor sit on lands owned by SDNR and are managed as an SRMA under the Board Of Forestry/County Land Use Resolution, with SLB listed as the managing entity. That stewardship helps keep the short trail and viewing area maintained and protected for visitors seeking a serene stretch of Oregon forest.
The Setting
Nehalem Falls sits at 79 feet within Board Of Forestry/County Land Use Resolution, fed by the Nehalem River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Nehalem Falls is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain. The route follows a well-maintained path through forested terrain and leads directly to a viewing area near the waterfall; expect a steady moderate grade over the length of the hike. No USFS trail number or additional surface/route class data is provided for this access.
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 Nehalem Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Nehalem Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit when the water flow is at its peak. 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
Exercise caution near the water as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially during winter when trails may be icy.
Current Water Conditions
105 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
1.64 ft
Water depth at gauge
60°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
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 bracing 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NEHALEM RIVER NEAR FOSS, OR (3 km away).
Today
Roaring
120 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
121 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
115 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
125 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
137 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
147 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
145 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late November to late January, 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 Nehalem 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 37 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 79 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 74 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 254 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 79 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 37 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Nehalem Falls is located off Highway 26 in the Tillamook State Forest. From the highway, follow signs to the Nehalem Falls Campground, which provides access to the waterfall.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Nehalem Falls Campground, which is close to the waterfall. The parking area is typically sufficient for visitors, but it may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
79 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.727332° N, -123.772906° W
Land Management
Managed by SLB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
Where to Stay
Inn at Cannon Beach
2 Bed 2 Bath Vacation home in Rockaway Beach
Forest-view home with fireplace deck - Walk to the Beach & Golf Course
Home with a washer&dryer fireplace & spacious deck with grill
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 Tillamook Forest Center, hiking trails in the Tillamook State Forest, and the Nehalem River for fishing and picnicking.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with wildlife.
Cities near Nehalem Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Writing about Nehalem Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.