Taylor Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Taylor Creek Falls
Taylor Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in Oregon. It is a serene destination surrounded by lush forest, offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature. The waterfall is part of Taylor Creek, a tributary of the Rogue River.
The Setting
Taylor Creek Falls sits at 3,369 feet within Siskiyou National Forest, fed by the Applegate River, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Minnow Creek (#1156), a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
MINNOW CREEK #1156
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
3.54 miTrail Description
The trail to Taylor Creek Falls is a moderately challenging hike that winds through a dense forest of Douglas firs and other native vegetation. The path follows Taylor Creek, offering scenic views of the creek and surrounding landscape. The trail is well-maintained but may have some uneven or rocky sections.
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 Taylor Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Taylor Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Siskiyou National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather and trail conditions before your visit, as heavy rain can make the trail muddy and hazardous. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your hiking plans.
Current Water Conditions
121 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
1.99 ft
Water depth at gauge
71°F
WarmVery comfortable
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 71 degrees F, pleasant for swimming.
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 APPLEGATE RIVER NEAR WILDERVILLE, OR (21 km away).
Today
Roaring
134 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
133 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
131 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
120 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
114 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
112 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
110 cfs
10/10Best window: Tue — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to early February, peaking in March.
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 Selma hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Taylor Creek Falls is located off the Taylor Creek Trail in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. The trailhead can be accessed via Forest Road 25, which is off Highway 199 near Grants Pass, Oregon. The road may be unpaved and rough in some sections, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited, especially during peak seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
3,369 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.467897° N, -123.606554° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Check trail conditions before heading out, as the area may experience closures or hazards after heavy rain or snow.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 4.5 miles and 500 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
Hampton Inn & Suites Grants Pass
Holiday Inn Express Grants Pass by IHG
Best Western Grants Pass Inn
Limpy Creek Access! Family Retreat in Grants Pass
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
ONION MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
1.1 miles away · 0 sites
Overview THIS FACILITY IS CLOSED TO RESERVATIONS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Onion Mountain lookout sits atop a 12-foot tower at an elevation of 4,438 feet, offering guests expansive mountain views in southwestern Oregon. The original Onion Mountain Lookout was a raised platform, built on top of a tower in 1916. In 1924, a second lookout without a tower was built on site. The current structure was placed on site in 1952 and served as a fire lookout and Aircraft Warning Service observation station. The l
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Selma, Oregon
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Selma, Oregon on SoakingSprings.
Explore Oregon springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Rogue River, Hellgate Canyon, and the Oregon Caves National Monument.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Taylor Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Taylor Creek Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.