Are there fees or permits required for Slide Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Slide Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Slide Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Slide Falls.

Live Conditions · 56 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Slide Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Slide Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Slide Falls.

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Malheur National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

Thomas Hawk CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

skua47 CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Thomas Hawk CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Ian Sane CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

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 summer fall

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

Updated about 1 hour ago Moderate

56 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

57 81 122 156

Based on 27 years of record

1.40 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.

JOHN DAY R AT BLUE MTN HOT SPGS NR PRAIRIE CITY,OR

USGS 14036860

5.9 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 40 sq mi

Altitude: 4,200 ft

Weather Forecast

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 Maps

Parking

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

6808 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.296859° N, -118.660282° W

Land Management

Malheur National Forest NF

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 Trail

UV 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

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Big Creek Campground

7.9 miles away · 15 sites

Reservable

Overview Big Creek Campground sits at the edge of beautiful Logan Valley along Big Creek and is a great starting point for multiple recreation opportunities, including mountain biking, hiking, stream fishing, hunting and bird watching and exploring the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. In the spring and early summer the area is exceptional for wildflower viewing.Recreation Big Creek Campground offers a central base for all your recreation activities. From casting a line in Big Creek to biking nearb

Book on Recreation.gov