Slide Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Slide Falls
Slide Falls is a picturesque, lesser-known waterfall tucked into Malheur National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Its forested setting and relatively low visitation make this a peaceful stop for hikers and photographers looking for a quieter outdoor experience in eastern Oregon. The falls are reached by a short, accessible hike that rewards visitors with the sound and sight of cascading water set among native trees and understory. Access to Slide Falls is via a roughly 2.0-mile out-and-back trail that gains about 300 feet and is typically rated moderate. The nearest developed camping is Big Creek Campground, approximately 12.7 km away, so day-trip planning or a longer drive to a campsite is recommended. Because the falls sit on USFS land, standard forest rules and Leave No Trace practices apply—pack out what you bring in and respect trail closures or seasonal restrictions.
The Setting
Slide Falls sits at 6,808 feet within Malheur National Forest, in the high mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Hike type: out-and-back; distance: 2.0 miles; elevation gain: ~300 ft; difficulty: moderate. The route to Slide Falls winds through forested terrain and includes uneven tread and some steep sections that make the hike moderately challenging. The trail is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Malheur National Forest—expect a natural, forest trail rather than paved surfaces, and plan footwear accordingly.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through dense forests leading to a beautiful waterfall. The area around the falls may be slippery, so caution is advised. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the trail is typically less crowded than more popular destinations.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Slide Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Slide Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Slide Falls, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Malheur National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear and stay on marked paths. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
24 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 27 years of record
1.12 ft
Water depth at gauge
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.
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 JOHN DAY R AT BLUE MTN HOT SPGS NR PRAIRIE CITY,OR (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
26 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
25 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
24 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
24 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
24 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
25 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
25 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late 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 Prairie City 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 laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 291 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 6,777 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 197 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 126 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and 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
- 6,777 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 291 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
Slide Falls is located in a remote area of Oregon. Access details may vary depending on the season, and visitors are advised to check local trail or park information for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is uncertain, but visitors may need to park at a nearby trailhead or designated area. It is recommended to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Elevation
6,808 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.296859° N, -118.660282° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Check weather conditions before your visit, as rain can make the trail slippery.
This trail sits at 6,808 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% 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.
With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
John Day Motel
Best Western John Day Inn
Dreamers Lodge
John Day Lakehouse w/ a Great Outdoor Space!
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.
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Nearby Attractions
Other nearby waterfalls and hiking trails may be worth exploring. Check local guides for recommendations.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Slide Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Slide Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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