Upper Falls
Oregon • 25 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.6 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Upper Falls
Upper Falls is a charming 25-foot cascade tucked into publicly managed BLM lands in Oregon, overseen by the Bureau of Land Management’s Prineville Central Oregon Field Office. The falls sit within a quietly forested setting that makes for great photos and a peaceful outing. Many visitors combine Upper Falls with nearby cascades on the same loop—making it a rewarding short hike with multiple viewpoints along the way. The route to the falls is an approachable, family-friendly outing: the full loop covers about 1.6 miles with roughly 200 feet of elevation gain and is rated easy. The path is well-maintained and thoughtfully built to highlight the scenery, so it’s a pleasant half-day excursion for hikers seeking a short nature escape on public (PUB) BLM land.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 4,121 feet within Prineville Central Oregon Field Office, fed by the Sf Crooked River, in the mountains of Oregon. The falls drop 25 feet.
Height: 25 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.6-mile loop trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail: 1.6-mile loop, ~200 ft elevation gain, difficulty: easy. The trail is a well-marked loop that leads to Upper Falls and connects to nearby cascades; it includes boardwalk-style wooden bridges, treated stair systems, and viewing platforms at the falls. The tread is a maintained natural footpath with short built structures where needed to cross wet sections and to access viewpoints. Overall the grade is gentle—suitable for most hikers and families looking for a short, non-technical outing on BLM-managed lands.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 25 feet. 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?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to seasonal rains and snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on wet or muddy sections of the trail, as they can be slippery. Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
10 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
3.60 ft
Water depth at gauge
59°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 59 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility and low dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 8.2 and mineral content is moderate.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
PoorLow oxygen — stressed ecosystem
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Falls is located within McDowell Creek Falls County Park, near Lebanon, Oregon. The park is accessible via McDowell Creek Drive, and clear signage directs visitors to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Free parking is available at the McDowell Creek Falls County Park trailhead. The parking area is well-maintained and typically has sufficient space.
Elevation
4121 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.255030° N, -120.100484° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy, especially after rain. Arrive early during weekends to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
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This easy 1.6 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
Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco NF (OR)
7.2 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Cold Springs Guard Station, constructed in 1934, is a historic site tucked into the Ochoco National Forest. It served a special role as the switchboard station connecting phone calls between various fire lookouts and guard stations during the summer months, as well as housing for the fire guard and his family. The current cabin replaced an earlier one that was destroyed by fire. Cold Springs Guard Station continued to be used by Forest Service employees into the 1990s, and remnants of it
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Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in McDowell Creek Falls County Park, including Royal Terrace Falls and Majestic Falls. The nearby town of Lebanon offers dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area is home to birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also see various species of ferns and wildflowers along the trail.
Cities near Upper Falls
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