Upper North Falls
Oregon • 65 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Upper North Falls
Upper North Falls is a picturesque waterfall located within Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. It is one of the ten waterfalls featured along the Trail of Ten Falls, known for its scenic beauty and accessibility.
The Setting
Upper North Falls sits at 1,522 feet within Silver Falls State Park, fed by the North Santiam River, in the hills of Oregon. The falls drop 65 feet.
Height: 65 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
North Falls (136 ft) lies 0.4 miles to the west. Also nearby: Winter Falls (134 ft, 1.3 mi) and Middle North Falls (106 ft, 1.5 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Upper North Falls is a short and easy walk, making it accessible for most visitors. The path is well-maintained and follows a gentle route along North Silver Creek, leading directly to the base of the waterfall.
What to Expect
The falls drop 65 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 North Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper North Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to seasonal rainfall and snowmelt. However, the falls are beautiful year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery when wet, so exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear. Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
1,670 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 109 years of record
3.70 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 NORTH SANTIAM RIVER AT MEHAMA, OR (10 km away).
Today
Roaring
1670 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
1642 cfs
8/10Fri
Roaring
1786 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
1929 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
1779 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
1712 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
1619 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid November to late January, peaking in November.
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 Mehama hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper North Falls is located within Silver Falls State Park, approximately 25 miles east of Salem, Oregon. Visitors can access the falls via the North Falls parking area, which is a short drive from the main park entrance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the North Falls parking area. A valid Oregon State Parks day-use parking pass or annual pass is required.
Elevation
1,522 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.883243° N, -122.614200° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be wet or muddy, particularly in the spring and winter months. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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
Oregon Garden Resort
The 1908 Bungalow
La Quinta by Wyndham Salem OR
Best Western Premier Keizer Salem Hotel
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
Aquila Vista Recreation Site
9.2 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Aquila Vista is closed until further notice to remove wildfire burned danger trees. Aquila Vista is available for overnight group camping for groups up to 30 people and 20 vehicles. The season, when it reopens, will be mid-May through mid-October. The site is located in the heart of the forest next to a large beaver pond. There is plenty of hiking and natural beauty to see at Aquila Vista including a small waterfall. Amenities include vault toilet, two group picnic shelters with multiple
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Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in Silver Falls State Park, including South Falls and North Falls. The Trail of Ten Falls offers a longer hike to explore multiple waterfalls in the park.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, deer, and other small wildlife along the trail. Keep an eye out for native plants and wildflowers, especially in spring.
Cities near Upper North Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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