Salmon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Salmon Falls
Salmon Falls sits tucked into the mossy, forested slopes of the Willamette National Forest and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are reached via Salmon Creek and reward hikers with a peaceful cascade framed by mature conifers and ferns — an easy-to-love spot for photographers and anyone wanting a quick immersion in Oregon’s Cascade woodlands. Note that “Salmon Falls” is a name used elsewhere (for example on the Snake River and in New England); this entry refers to the Salmon Falls found on Salmon Creek in the Willamette National Forest. Access to the waterfall is via the USFS Salmon Creek Trail (Trail #4365), a popular short outing that feels remote despite its forest-road approach. The setting is quintessential Cascades — shady corridor, native understory, and the steady sound of falling water — all managed and maintained by the Forest Service for day-use hikers and nature lovers.
The Setting
Salmon Falls sits at 1,480 feet within Willamette National Forest, in the foothills of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Salmon Creek (#4365), a 1.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
SALMON CREEK #4365
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.48 miTrail Description
The route to Salmon Falls follows the USFS Salmon Creek Trail (Trail #4365). According to Forest Service trail data the tread is native material and the trail is rated Class 3, with typical grades in the 12–20% range. Expect a natural dirt tread that can get slick or muddy in wet weather, some short, steeper pitches, and singletrack-style footing — sturdy shoes and attention on steeper sections are recommended.
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 Salmon Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Salmon 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 snowmelt and rainfall.
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
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS device as cell service may be unreliable.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Middle Fork Willamette River, 4.2 miles away, not on Salmon Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
430 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
2.69 ft
Water depth at gauge
55°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 55 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MF WILLAMETTE RIVER ABV SALT CRK, NEAR OAKRIDGE,OR (7 km away).
Today
Moderate
464 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
443 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
426 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
420 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
459 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
453 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
454 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid November to late December, 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 Oakridge hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Salmon Falls Frozen?
Updated about 12 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded strong flow slows freezing
Salmon Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 60°F to 44°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 430 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
The Terrain Around Salmon Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Salmon Falls is located near the town of Oakridge, Oregon. Access is typically via forest roads, and directions may vary depending on the season and road conditions. Visitors are advised to check local maps and trail guides for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,480 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.761512° N, -122.374490° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or holidays to secure parking. Bring sturdy shoes, especially if visiting during or after rain. Cell service may be limited, so download maps or directions in advance.
Where to Stay
Cascade Motel
Oakridge Inn & Suites
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Springfield
Holiday Inn Express : Eugene - Springfield by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Middle Fork Ranger District (Hwy 58)
7.9 miles away · 0 sites
Middle Fork Ranger District (US Highway 58)Middle Fork Ranger District is the southern part of the forest, bordering the Deschutes and Umpqua National Forests. Accessible from the west on Highway 58 from Eugene, OR, or from the south via Highway 58.Spend some time exploring Waldo Lake, one of the gems of the forest, but don’t forget to get out on some of the great mountain biking, hiking, and horse trails in this area.HikingBackpacking and day hikes can be found all over the district including, F
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Salt Creek Falls and the Willamette National Forest, which offer additional hiking and sightseeing opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects during warmer months.
Cities near Salmon Falls
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