North Falls
Oregon • 136 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About North Falls
North Falls is a stunning 136-foot waterfall located in Silver Falls State Park, Oregon. It is part of the Trail of Ten Falls, a popular hiking route that showcases multiple waterfalls. The waterfall is unique because the trail passes behind the falls, offering a breathtaking view from inside a natural basalt cave.
The Setting
North Falls sits at 1,421 feet within Silver Falls State Park, fed by the North Santiam River, in the foothills of Oregon. At 136 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Oregon.
Height: 136 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Winter Falls (134 ft) lies 0.9 miles to the west. Also nearby: Middle North Falls (106 ft, 1.0 mi) and Upper North Falls (65 ft, 0.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to North Falls is part of the Trail of Ten Falls. It features a well-maintained path with some steep sections and stairs. The highlight is walking behind the waterfall through a large basalt cave, providing a unique perspective of the cascading water.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 136 feet. 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 North Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at North Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting North Falls, as the water flow is at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience with potential icy conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfall. Exercise caution and stay on marked paths. Watch for falling rocks when walking behind the falls.
Current Water Conditions
1,280 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 109 years of record
3.38 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 NORTH SANTIAM RIVER AT MEHAMA, OR (11 km away).
Today
Strong
1459 cfs
7/10Tomorrow
Strong
1428 cfs
8/10Mon
Strong
1374 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
1300 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
1227 cfs
9/10Thu
Strong
1219 cfs
8/10Fri
Strong
1306 cfs
8/10Best window: Wed — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Mehama hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
North Falls is located within Silver Falls State Park, approximately 25 miles east of Salem, Oregon. The park is accessible via Highway 214. Follow signs to the North Falls parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the North Falls trailhead. Parking is typically ample but may fill up during peak seasons or weekends.
Elevation
1,421 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.884747° N, -122.622356° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or holidays. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be slippery near the waterfall. Bring a rain jacket or waterproof gear, as you may get wet while walking behind the falls.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 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
Oregon Garden Resort
The 1908 Bungalow
La Quinta by Wyndham Salem OR
Best Western Premier Keizer Salem Hotel
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
Aquila Vista Recreation Site
9.3 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Aquila Vista is closed until further notice to remove wildfire burned danger trees. Aquila Vista is available for overnight group camping for groups up to 30 people and 20 vehicles. The season, when it reopens, will be mid-May through mid-October. The site is located in the heart of the forest next to a large beaver pond. There is plenty of hiking and natural beauty to see at Aquila Vista including a small waterfall. Amenities include vault toilet, two group picnic shelters with multiple
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Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls on the Trail of Ten Falls, including South Falls and Middle North Falls. The Silver Falls Lodge and nearby picnic areas are also worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds, including woodpeckers and owls. Keep an eye out for native plants like ferns and wildflowers.
Cities near North Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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