Is swimming allowed at Steelhead Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Steelhead Falls.

Live Conditions · 85 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Steelhead Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Steelhead Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Steelhead Falls.

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Also For 1 other waterfall also named Steelhead Falls, see below

Prineville Deschutes Field Office PUB · Bureau of Land Management

Photo Credits (5)

BLM Oregon & Washington CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

2.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

200 ft

About Steelhead Falls

Steelhead Falls sits along the Deschutes River in Central Oregon, cutting into a short canyon and framed by basalt cliffs. The waterfall and the pools below are popular with hikers, swimmers and anglers who enjoy the river scenery and the dramatic rock walls that line the gorge. The site is on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Prineville Deschutes Field Office (designation: PUB). The approach is a short outing — an easy, 2.0-mile out-and-back with about 200 feet of elevation gain — making Steelhead Falls an inviting half-day destination for families and day hikers.

The Setting

Steelhead Falls sits at 2,290 feet within Prineville Deschutes Field Office, fed by the Crooked River, in the hills of Oregon.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The easy 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail length: 2.0 miles (out-and-back); elevation gain: ~200 feet; difficulty: easy. The route follows a well-maintained dirt tread with some rocky sections as it descends gently into the Deschutes canyon. Hikers are treated to open river views and the basalt cliffs that flank the falls; the path is non-technical and suitable for most hikers. This access and trail are on BLM-managed land under the Prineville Deschutes Field Office.

What to Expect

Swimming is permitted. 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 Steelhead Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $5.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Steelhead Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and summer are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while winter may bring icy conditions on the trail.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Be cautious near the edge of the river and waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Watch for rattlesnakes in the area during warmer months. Swimming is at your own risk, as the water can be cold and currents unpredictable.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 4 hours ago Low

85 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

101 115 183 336

Based on 22 years of record

1.63 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

CROOKED RIVER BLW OSBORNE CANYON, NR OPAL CITY, OR

USGS 14087380

2.9 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 4,520 sq mi

Altitude: 2,190 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge CROOKED RIVER BLW OSBORNE CANYON, NR OPAL CITY, OR (5 km away).

High confidence

Low right now

85 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Moderate

92 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

100 cfs

5/10

Sun

Moderate

94 cfs

8/10

Mon

Low

87 cfs

6/10

Tue

Low

92 cfs

6/10

Wed

Low

90 cfs

6/10

Thu

Low

84 cfs

6/10

Best window: Sun — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid May, 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 Crooked River Ranch hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Steelhead Falls is located near Terrebonne, Oregon, within the Crooked River Ranch area. From Terrebonne, take NW Lower Bridge Way, then turn onto NW 43rd Street and follow signs to the Steelhead Falls Trailhead.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a designated parking area at the Steelhead Falls Trailhead. Parking may be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.

Elevation

2,290 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.416285° N, -121.289770° W

Land Management

Prineville Deschutes Field Office PUB

Managed by BLM

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky in places. Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer, as the area can get hot. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.

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This easy 2.0 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

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

SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES

8.7 miles away · 2 sites

OverviewHaystack South Shore Group Campground is the only group campground on Haystack Reservoir. Each of the two campsites holds up to 50 people. This is a year-round facility ideal for large events such as family reunions or groups of rock climbers visiting nearby Smith Rock State Park. Natural Features:South Shore is located in the high desert landscape with views of Mt. Jefferson as a scenic backdrop. Juniper trees and sagebrush dot the landscape. The combination of a low forest canopy and 3,

Book on Recreation.gov