Thompson Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Thompson Falls
Thompson Falls is a short, scenic cascade tucked into the Umatilla National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The name Thompson Falls appears in multiple places (per Wikipedia), and this entry refers specifically to the waterfall on Umatilla NF. Framed by dense forest, the falls offer a peaceful setting for a quick nature escape and are a lovely spot for photographers and families looking for an easy outdoor outing. The approach is deliberately accessible: the well-loved route is a compact hike that rewards visitors with mossy rocks and riparian views without a long slog. The U.S. Forest Service keeps the area stewarded for day use, making Thompson Falls an inviting stop on a broader exploration of the national forest.
The Setting
Thompson Falls sits at 4,117 feet within Umatilla National Forest, fed by the Middle Fork John Day River, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This USFS route is a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 200 feet of elevation gain, rated easy. The overall grade is gentle, making it suitable for most hikers and families; expect a short forested walk to reach the falls. Trail type: out-and-back; difficulty: easy; length: 1.5 miles; elevation gain: ~200 ft.
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 Thompson Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Thompson Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Thompson Falls, as the waterfall is at its fullest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions, so check trail accessibility before visiting.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Umatilla National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. During wet or icy conditions, the trail may become hazardous. Always stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
22 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 96 years of record
1.72 ft
Water depth at gauge
55°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 55 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
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 MIDDLE FORK JOHN DAY RIVER AT RITTER, OR (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
22 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
22 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
22 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
22 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
23 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
24 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
25 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid June, 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 Ukiah 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 230 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 4,113 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 235 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 89 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
- 4,113 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 230 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
Thompson Falls is located in the Umpqua National Forest, Oregon. To reach the trailhead, take Highway 138 (also known as the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway) and follow signs for the Clearwater Falls area. From there, follow forest roads to the Thompson Falls trailhead. Road conditions may vary, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended during certain seasons.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but it may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
4,117 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.020945° N, -119.192249° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy in some sections, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
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This easy 1.5 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
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
DITCH CREEK GUARD STATION CAB
10.1 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Ditch Creek Guard Station, located about 27 miles southeast of Heppner, Oregon, is a comfortable little cabin that accommodates six overnight guests, with additional space for tent camping outside. Equestrian campers are welcome and a corral with trough is provided. The guard station was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the mid-1930s. It is a classic example of forest structures of that era and is eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. I
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Nearby Attractions
Clearwater Falls, Toketee Falls, and Watson Falls are all located nearby and are worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Thompson Falls
Other waterfalls named Thompson Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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