Proxy Falls
Oregon • 226 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Before you go
Highway 242 is usually closed to vehicles from about November to June, so the trailhead is reachable only in summer and early fall. From June 15 to October 15 a free, self-issued wilderness day-use permit is required at the trailhead.
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.7 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
170 ft
About Proxy Falls
Proxy Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Willamette National Forest in Oregon. It is known for its unique, fan-like cascade over moss-covered rocks, making it one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest and volcanic landscapes, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
The Setting
Proxy Falls sits at 3,176 feet within Willamette National Forest, in the mountains of Oregon. At 226 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Oregon.
Height: 226 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Proxy Falls (#3532), a 1.7-mile loop trail over imported loose material. Expect 170 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
PROXY FALLS #3532
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.33 miTrail Description
Proxy Falls Trail #3532 is a signed one-way loop of about 1.7 miles with about 170 feet of gain that enters the Three Sisters Wilderness and crosses old lava flows. Spurs lead to a viewpoint of 226-foot Lower Proxy Falls and up the creek to about 130-foot Upper Proxy Falls. Hike the loop in the signed direction to reduce congestion.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 226 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 Proxy Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Dogs are allowed on the Proxy Falls Trail; Three Sisters Wilderness rules apply.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Proxy Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Proxy Falls is in late spring through early fall when the trail is accessible and the waterfall flow is strong. Summer offers the most reliable access due to dry conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Willamette National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the waterfall as rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment and for your safety. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in spring and fall.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Mckenzie River, 9.5 miles away, not on Proxy Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
574 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 67 years of record
6.16 ft
Water depth at gauge
44°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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 very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Expect crystal clear visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.7 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 MCKENZIE R BLW TRAIL BR DAM NR BELKNAP SPRINGS, OR (15 km away).
Today
Strong
574 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
594 cfs
9/10Thu
Strong
615 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
649 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
697 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
677 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
711 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early June, peaking in May.
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 Black Butte Ranch hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Proxy Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded strong flow slows freezing
Proxy Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 54°F to 42°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 536 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
Location & Access
Getting There
From Highway 126 near McKenzie Bridge, turn east on Highway 242 (McKenzie Highway) and drive about 9 miles to the Proxy Falls Trailhead. From Sisters, the trailhead is about 28 miles west over McKenzie Pass when Highway 242 is open.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Park along either side of Highway 242 at the trailhead; the trail starts across the road from the restrooms. A $5 day pass, Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful pass is required.
Elevation
3,176 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.161786° N, -121.927826° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as parts of the trail can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Be cautious near the waterfall as rocks can be slippery.
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This easy 1.7 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
1.2 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.
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Sisters, Oregon on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Sahalie Falls, Koosah Falls, and the Dee Wright Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for native flora and fauna along the trail.
Cities near Proxy Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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