Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
12.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
1,800 ft
About Obsidian Falls
Obsidian Falls is a picturesque waterfall located along the Obsidian Trail in the Three Sisters Wilderness of Oregon. The falls cascade over dark volcanic rock, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding alpine scenery. It is a popular destination for hikers exploring the wilderness area.
The Setting
Obsidian Falls sits at 6,611 feet within Willamette National Forest, fed by the M F Tumalo Creek Abv Prowell Springs,, in the high mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard hike follows Obsidian (#3528), a 12.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 1,800 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
OBSIDIAN #3528
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
4.30 miTrail Description
The trail to Obsidian Falls is a challenging but rewarding hike through the Three Sisters Wilderness. Hikers will pass through dense forests, alpine meadows, and volcanic landscapes before reaching the falls. The trail is well-maintained but includes significant elevation gain and rocky sections.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Obsidian Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $6.00
Permit required
A limited-entry permit is required to hike the Obsidian Trail. Permits can be obtained through recreation.gov and are often booked well in advance.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Obsidian Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late summer or early fall when the trail is snow-free, and wildflowers are in bloom.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Summer and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Willamette National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 33°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, as conditions in the wilderness can shift rapidly. Carry a map, extra food, and water. Cell service is limited, so inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 8 years of record
4.81 ft
Water depth at gauge
33°F
Dangerously coldRisk of cold shock
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is dangerously cold at 33 degrees F, avoid prolonged contact.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Black Butte Ranch hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Obsidian Falls is accessed via the Obsidian Trailhead, located off Forest Road 2600-242 near McKenzie Pass. The trailhead is approximately 15 miles west of Sisters, Oregon. A limited-entry permit is required to hike in this area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Obsidian Trailhead, but spaces are limited. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak hiking season.
Elevation
6611 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.168728° N, -121.817823° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to complete the hike. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be strenuous. Check for wildfire activity or trail closures before your visit.
This trail sits at 6,611 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 26% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This challenging 12.0 miles trail gains 1,800 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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.
Where to Stay
Sisters Inn & Suites
The Aerie Suites by AvantStay
Wall Street Suites
Campfire 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
Alder Springs Campground
4.8 miles away · 0 sites
This small, rustic site is right on the side of the historic McKenzie Pass Highway. Surrounded by towering Douglas fir trees, this is a perfect spot to be on a warm day.Access to Linton Lake Trailhead in the Three Sisters Wilderness is immediately across the highway from the campground.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Black Butte Ranch, Oregon
Belknap Springs
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Bigelow Hot Springs
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Breitenbush Hot Springs
Breitenbush Hot Springs emerges at 198°F along the Breitenbush River, ranking as one of Oregon's hottest thermal features with ...
Wall Creek Warm Springs
Wall Creek Warm Springs flows at 106°F deep within Willamette National Forest at 2,362 feet elevation on the western Cascades s...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Black Butte Ranch, Oregon on SoakingSprings.
Explore Oregon springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Three Sisters Wilderness include the Obsidian Limited Entry Area, Middle Sister, and the Pacific Crest Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, marmots, birds, and other alpine wildlife. Be cautious of bears and store food properly if camping.
Cities near Obsidian Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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