The Horn
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About The Horn
The Horn is a striking rock formation and waterfall tucked into the coastal forests of Oregon, nestled within the Siuslaw National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It’s known more for its dramatic appearance and the quiet, woodsy setting than for widely published statistics—details such as exact height and seasonal flow rates aren’t well documented, which adds to the sense of discovery for visitors who make the trip. Access to the site is via a short, moderate hike through mature forest; the approach keeps the destination feeling tucked away and peaceful. Because the feature lies on National Forest land, check current conditions and access notices from the Siuslaw National Forest before heading out, and plan for changing coastal weather and uneven trail footing.
The Setting
The Horn sits at 236 feet within Siuslaw National Forest, fed by the Lake Creek, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The USFS-listed access to The Horn is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The Forest Service data provides length, gain, and difficulty but does not specify trail surface, grade, or technical class in the available record; expect a forested route with typical natural tread and bring appropriate footwear. As this route is on Siuslaw National Forest lands, consult current trail conditions and any seasonal advisories from the U.S. Forest Service before hiking.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a scenic area with unique geological features and potential waterfall views. However, the exact conditions and accessibility of the site are not well-documented.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at The Horn?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Horn?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit may depend on weather conditions and water flow. Spring and early summer are typically good times for waterfalls in Oregon due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Siuslaw National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Trail conditions and hazards are not well-documented. Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain, potential wildlife encounters, and changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
93 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
9.75 ft
Water depth at gauge
61°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 61 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge LAKE CREEK AT SWISSHOME, OR (1 km away).
Today
Strong
93 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
91 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
91 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
106 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
124 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
159 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
135 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid April, 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 Mapleton 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 314 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 274 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 292 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 125 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 274 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 314 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The Horn is located in Oregon, but specific directions to the site are not well-documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local hiking resources or guides for accurate access information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should research nearby trailheads or parking areas before planning their trip.
Elevation
236 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.065120° N, -123.790106° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Research the area thoroughly before visiting. Bring appropriate gear for hiking and be prepared for variable trail conditions.
Where to Stay
Park Motel and Cabins
Quality Inn Florence
The Florentine Waterfront Hotel
Ocean Breeze Motel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
North Fork Siuslaw Campground
7.8 miles away · 0 sites
North Fork Siuslaw Campground is a dispersed site with 7 campsites.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural landmarks and hiking trails in Oregon. Research the area for additional points of interest.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Oregon wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
Cities near The Horn
Nearby Waterfalls
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