North Fork Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About North Fork Falls
North Fork Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Siuslaw National Forest near Mapleton, Oregon. It is part of the North Fork Smith River and is surrounded by lush forest, offering a serene and scenic experience for visitors. The waterfall is known for its cascading flow and tranquil setting, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
North Fork Falls sits at 968 feet within Siuslaw National Forest, fed by the Lake Creek, in the foothills of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows North Fork Smith River Trail (#1351), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
NORTH FORK SMITH RIVER TRAIL #1351
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
5.18 miTrail Description
The trail to North Fork Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a lush forest. The path is well-maintained and features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most visitors. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sights and sounds of the surrounding forest and the North Fork Smith River.
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 North Fork Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at North Fork Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a quieter experience but could have slippery conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Siuslaw National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid hiking during heavy rain or storms. Cell service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
252 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 1 years of record
10.25 ft
Water depth at gauge
64°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
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 a refreshing 64 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
North Fork Falls is located approximately 6.7 miles from Mapleton, Oregon. From Mapleton, take Highway 126 east and turn onto North Fork Road. Follow the road for about 6 miles to reach the trailhead or parking area. The road may be gravel in some sections, so drive carefully.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead. Visitors should arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
Elevation
968 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.932374° N, -123.817530° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Park Motel and Cabins
Quality Inn Florence
The Florentine Waterfront Hotel
Ocean Breeze Motel
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
Whittaker Creek Recreation Site
8.6 miles away · 31 sites
Overview Overnight camping is closed until further notice. Day-use recreation areas remain open for public use.Reserve a site at Whittaker Creek on recreation.gov or pay when you arrive for non-reserved campsites using the Recreation.gov Mobile App. You must download before you reach the site since there is no cell reception in the drainage. Whittaker Creek Recreation Site is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground and day use area. The campground has 30 sites. Campground amenities include v
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Sweet Creek Falls, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and the coastal town of Florence.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot fish in the North Fork Smith River.
Cities near North Fork Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about North Fork Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.