Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Youngs River Falls
Youngs River Falls is a 54-foot (16 m) waterfall on the Youngs River in central Clatsop County in northwestern Oregon, about 10 miles (16 km) south of Astoria. The falls tumble into a serene pool set among lush, moss‑covered rock and coastal forest — a compact but photogenic cascade that draws both locals and visitors exploring the northern Oregon coast. The site is very accessible: a short walk from the parking area delivers you to the base of the falls, making it an easy stop for families, photographers, and anyone wanting a quick nature break while touring the Astoria area. Bring waterproof footwear in wet seasons, as the approach can get muddy, and plan for a brief, rewarding visit rather than a long backcountry outing.
The Setting
Youngs River Falls sits at 85 feet along the Nehalem River, in the coastal lowlands of Oregon. The falls drop 54 feet.
Height: 54 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, approximately 0.4 miles total with about 50 feet of elevation gain. The route is rated easy and follows a short dirt path from the parking area directly to the base of the falls. Surfaces can be muddy in rainy weather, so sturdy, water-resistant shoes are recommended. No formal USFS trail number or surface/grade class data is provided for this short access trail.
What to Expect
The falls drop 54 feet. Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Youngs River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Youngs River Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
The falls are beautiful year-round, but spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow. Fall offers vibrant foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The rocks near the falls can be slippery, so caution is advised. During heavy rains, the trail may become muddy and more challenging to navigate. Always supervise children near the water.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge NEHALEM RIVER AT JEWELL, OR (27 km away).
Today
Strong
41 cfs
7/10Tomorrow
Strong
39 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
36 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
39 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
41 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
41 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, patchy fog then partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 River Point 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.
3-meter lidar measures about 216 feet of descent through Youngs River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 54 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 93 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 90 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 112 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, 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
- 93 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 216 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
Youngs River Falls is located approximately 10 miles south of Astoria, Oregon. From Astoria, take Highway 202 and follow signs for Youngs River Falls Road. The falls are a short drive from the main road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, which can accommodate several vehicles. Parking is free, but it may fill up during peak times.
Elevation
85 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.067054° N, -123.789859° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer weekends. Wear sturdy shoes if visiting during the rainy season, as the trail can be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Astoria Riverwalk Inn
Inn of the Four Winds Seaside Oceanfront
Lloyd Hotel Astoria Bayfront, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Ebb Tide Oceanfront Inn
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Astoria, Oregon Coast beaches, Fort Clatsop National Memorial
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and fish in the river.
Cities near Youngs River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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