• Salt Creek Falls is Oregon's third tallest waterfall, with fantastic hiking and nature viewing
Salt Creek Falls is a stunning waterfall in the Willamette National Forest, about 21 miles from Oakridge, Oregon.
At 286 feet tall, it's the third-highest waterfall in Oregon and one of the state's most beautiful and powerful falls. This fantastic waterfall plunges from Salt Creek, a tributary of the Middle Fork Willamette River.
Surrounded by old-growth forests of Douglas fir, mountain hemlock, and western hemlock, Salt Creek Falls is the perfect place to explore nature, hike scenic trails, and capture incredible photographs.
Visiting Salt Creek Falls
The first time I visited Salt Creek Falls, I was blown away by its power. Did you know it pours about 50,000 gallons of water per minute into a deep pool 66 feet below? When you stand on the viewing platform just 50 yards from the parking lot, you can feel the mist and hear the roar.
The viewing platform is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the falls.
US Forest Service manages the falls and requires a small day-use fee.
Salt Creek Falls Hiking Trails
Salt Creek Falls has two fantastic trails starting at the parking area. Each of these trails is moderately challenging, with about 400 feet of elevation gain:
- 3.4-mile loop trail – Takes you through beautiful forests and around the falls.
- 6-mile semi-loop trail – Offers even more scenery, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities.
These trails are perfect if you want to explore the lush green forests of Oregon and get close to the waterfall. I always pack snacks, water, and my camera to spend a few hours enjoying the scenery.
Salt Creek Falls is a fantastic spot for nature viewing and photography. You can capture some of your best outdoor pictures here because of the powerful water flow, lush forest, and incredible cliff views.
When visiting, watch for wildlife such as:
- Birds like hawks and woodpeckers
- Small mammals, including squirrels and chipmunks
- Deer grazing quietly among the trees.
Winter Adventures at Salt Creek Falls
Did you know you can visit Salt Creek Falls year-round? In winter, this area transforms into a snowy wonderland ideal for snowshoeing.
Trails near the falls offer a unique winter experience, with snow-covered trees and ice formations around the waterfall's edge.
Salt Creek Falls Camping, Lodging, and Vacation Rentals
No camping is allowed right at Salt Creek Falls, but you have great camping and lodging choices nearby.
If you want to camp, these are the closest campgrounds with good facilities:
- Black Canyon Campground, located about 6 miles west, has 75 campsites, picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. It's nestled along the scenic Middle Fork Willamette River.
- Blue Pool Campground, around 8 miles east near Oakridge, offers peaceful riverside spots, picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets.
- Packard Creek Campground, near Hills Creek Reservoir, has 36 campsites, fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and a boat ramp.
For hotels, cabins, or vacation rentals, your best bet is Oakridge, just 21 miles northwest of Salt Creek Falls.
Eugene is 64 miles farther but has even more accommodations.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays at Oakridge
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays at Eugene
Salt Creek Falls | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: US Forest Service
Amenities: Viewing platform, restrooms, picnic area
Activities: Hiking, nature viewing, photography, and snowshoeing
Day-use fees: Required ($5 per vehicle or NW Forest Pass)
Salt Creek Falls is located:
- 21 miles southeast of Oakridge
- 64 miles southeast of Eugene
- 180 miles southeast of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Salt Creek Falls
- Take Oregon Route 58 southeast for about 21 miles
- Turn right at the clearly marked sign for Salt Creek Falls
- Follow the road to the parking area (fee required).
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