Upper Falls Deschutes River
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Upper Falls Deschutes River
Upper Falls on the Deschutes River is a compact, scenic cascade tucked inside the Deschutes National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are reached via the Deschutes River hiking corridor using the USFS-designated DESCHUTES RIVER HIKING Trail #2.1, which threads close to the river and opens several pleasant viewpoints. The route is an inviting choice for casual hikers who want a short outing with rewarding water-and-river views without a strenuous climb.
The Setting
Upper Falls Deschutes River sits at 3,950 feet within Deschutes National Forest, fed by the Bridge Creek, in the mountains of Oregon.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Deschutes River Hiking (#2.1), a 3.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
DESCHUTES RIVER HIKING #2.1
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
1.69 miTrail Description
DESCHUTES RIVER HIKING (Trail #2.1) is an out-and-back route about 3.0 miles in total (USFS GIS lists the trail as 1.69 miles), with roughly 200 feet of elevation gain and an overall easy difficulty. The tread is native material and the trail is classified by the USFS as Class 3; the surface and modest gain make it suitable for most visitors, including families. Note the nearest campground is Big River, approximately 19.24 km away, so plan overnight stays accordingly.
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 Upper Falls Deschutes River?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls Deschutes River?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a quieter experience, though trail conditions can be icy or snowy.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Deschutes National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 42°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Stay on designated trails to avoid unstable ground near the river. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls, especially after rain or during winter. Watch for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
12 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
0.15 ft
Water depth at gauge
42°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 42 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 BRIDGE CREEK BELOW INTAKE, NEAR BEND, OR (14 km away).
Today
Low
12 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
13 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
12 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
12 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
13 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
12 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
13 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to mid June, peaking in May.
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 Seventh Mountain 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 bare-earth surface loses about 30 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 3,951 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 37 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 19 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, the falls 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
- 3,951 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 30 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Falls is located along the Deschutes River Trail, accessible from trailheads near Bend, Oregon. The most common access point is from the Benham Falls East Trailhead, which provides a well-marked path to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Benham Falls East Trailhead. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
3,950 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.978716° N, -121.408371° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and sunscreen, especially in summer. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.
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This easy 3.0 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
Cabin with Private Hot Tub Near the Deschutes River - Free SHARC access
Cozy mountain studio near skiing & town with fast WiFi shared pools & patio
2 Tennis Village..
Paper Birch - Unit 10
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
BIG RIVER
12 miles away · 13 sites
Overview Big River Campground is located along the Deschutes River south of the town of Sunriver. Large, open group sites offer a perfect setting for family reunions or group gatherings. Recreation Popular activities in the area include hiking, fishing and rafting in the summer months and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Big River provides the perfect place to launch a canoe or kayak into the Deschutes River. Only non-motorized boating is permitted on the river, and the water i
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Nearby Attractions
Benham Falls, Lava Lands Visitor Center, and the Newberry National Volcanic Monument are all located nearby.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for osprey and bald eagles near the river.
Cities near Upper Falls Deschutes River
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