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About Sherars Falls
Sherars Falls is a broad, powerful set of cascading rapids on the Deschutes River just north of Maupin, Oregon, at Sherar’s Bridge on Oregon Route 216. The falls drop roughly 15 feet and are the last waterfall on the Deschutes before it meets the Columbia River. Rather than a single vertical plunge, Sherars Falls is a violent, churning cascade — historically and recreationally significant, prized for salmon and steelhead fishing and long respected by local Native American tribes. Because the flow culminates in technical, dangerous water, the falls are rated class 6 whitewater and are under an administrative closure to boaters for public safety. The site sits on land listed as DESG and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management within the Deschutes River Segment E, a designated Wild and Scenic River. The falls are easily enjoyed from the roadside viewing areas at Sherar’s Bridge and nearby pullouts; for overnight stays Twin Springs Campground is about 5.62 km away. Visitors are encouraged to honor fishing traditions, obey closure signs, and treat the area with the respect due a place of both natural power and cultural importance.
The Setting
Sherars Falls sits at 686 feet within Deschutes River Segment E, fed by the Deschutes River, in the foothills of Oregon.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
White River Falls (90 ft) lies 3.4 miles to the west. Also nearby: Celestial Falls (45 ft, 3.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Sherars Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Primary viewing requires no hike: Sherars Falls is accessible directly from Oregon Route 216 with roadside parking and turnout areas at Sherar’s Bridge, making it an easy stop for photos and river watching. For those wanting a longer walk, the nearby route is described as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating — a short hike that lets you take in more river viewpoints and surrounding scenery. No USFS trail number or specific surface/grade/class data is listed for the access; trail surfaces and conditions can vary, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven ground near the river. Note: boating through the falls is administratively closed due to the extreme (class 6) whitewater hazard.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to see a powerful series of rapids rather than a traditional waterfall. The area is often busy with fishermen, and the falls are a significant cultural site for Native American tribes. The sound of rushing water and the sight of fish ladders and fishing platforms add to the unique experience.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sherars Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sherars Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for observing fishing activities, while summer offers warmer weather for general sightseeing.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as the currents are strong and the rocks can be slippery. Be mindful of fishing equipment and platforms.
Current Water Conditions
58°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
What does this mean for your visit?
Water temperature is a bracing 58 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DESCHUTES RIVER AT SHERARS BRIDGE, OR (0 km away).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid April, peaking in April.
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 Maupin hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 101 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 690 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 229 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 252 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 690 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 101 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Sherars Falls is located near Maupin, Oregon, along Highway 216. It is easily accessible by car, with the falls visible from the road and nearby parking areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, but availability may be limited during peak fishing seasons.
Elevation
686 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.262264° N, -121.032551° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the salmon or steelhead runs to observe fishing activities. Be respectful of the cultural significance of the site and avoid interfering with fishing operations. Bring binoculars for a closer view of the falls and wildlife.
Where to Stay
Balch Hotel
8 Mile Farm Bed & Breakfast
Steps to Pine Hollow Reservoir: Home w/ Fire Pit!
Cooper Spur Mountain Resort
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
Twin Springs Campground
3.5 miles away · 0 sites
Wedged between the Lower Deschutes River Back Country Byway and the Deschutes River, Twin Springs Campground offers six individual campsites, each with a picnic table and firering. Bring you own shade: only one campsite has any and what sun protection it does offer is minimal.Know Before You GoTwin Springs Campground is open year-round with limited river access, one vault toilet and garbage service. There are no group-use campsites.No drinking water or utility hookups are available. No reservatio
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Nearby Attractions
The town of Maupin offers rafting and fishing opportunities on the Deschutes River. White River Falls State Park is also nearby, featuring a more traditional waterfall.
Wildlife
The area is home to various fish species, including salmon and steelhead, as well as birds such as ospreys and eagles.
Cities near Sherars Falls
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