Under the Curtain: A Day on Oregon’s Silver Falls Trail of Ten Falls
An all-season waterfall circuit where you walk behind the roar and come out smiling.
The canyon exhales cool mist before you see the water. One moment the Douglas firs stand still as sentinels; the next they stir, as if the forest itself is leaning in to listen. Then South Falls appears—177 feet of white water slipping off a basalt lip—and the trail does something rare: it invites you to step behind the cascade. The waterfall roars like a friendly giant. Spray freckles your face. The cliff’s hollowed amphitheater opens like a backstage pass to geology in motion.
Trail Wisdom
Start at South Falls, go clockwise
Descending early into the canyon helps you beat crowds and keeps the big waterfall reveals coming in satisfying sequence.
Expect slick steps
Spray-soaked stairs and ledges are common—wear grippy, lugged shoes and take the handrails where provided.
Bring a light shell
Even on warm days, the canyon’s mist chills quickly; a breathable rain jacket keeps you comfortable behind falls.
Mind dog restrictions
Dogs are not allowed on the Canyon Trail or behind the waterfalls; plan a Rim Trail stroll if traveling with pets.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upper North Falls spur—short detour with excellent photo angles and fewer people
- •Maple Ridge Trail—quieter rim views and a gentle finish after the canyon
Wildlife
Pacific wren, Roosevelt elk
Conservation Note
Stay on the established trail to protect delicate cliffside vegetation and reduce erosion behind the falls; pack out all trash and respect seasonal closures.
The park’s signature stonework and South Falls Lodge were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s–40s, part of a New Deal effort that shaped Oregon recreation.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Peak waterfall flow, Wildflowers
Challenges: Mud on canyon sections, Cool, wet weather
Waterfalls are at their liveliest, trillium and bleeding heart dot the understory, and crowds are manageable with an early start.
summer
Best for: Family-friendly hiking, Comfortable temps in the canyon
Challenges: Crowds and full parking lots, Dustier upper trails
Warm days and cool, misty canyon air make for an ideal contrast—arrive early or late for quieter paths.
fall
Best for: Autumn colors, Crisp hiking weather
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Early storms can make trails slick
Maples ignite the gorge in gold; bring a layer and watch footing on leafy, wet steps.
winter
Best for: Dramatic flows, Quiet trails
Challenges: Cold spray and icy patches, Limited services midweek
With leaves down and water high, the falls boom; pack traction if temperatures drop near freezing.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof, grippy hiking shoesEssential
Spray and slick basalt make traction and sealed uppers a smart choice year-round.
Lightweight rain shellEssential
The canyon’s humidity and waterfall mist demand a breathable waterproof layer even on clear days.
Trekking poles (collapsible)
Helpful for balance on slick steps and muddy sections, especially in colder months.
Microfiber lens cloth and phone dry bag
Keep cameras and phones dry while shooting behind the falls.
Common Questions
How long is the Trail of Ten Falls and how hard is it?
The loop ranges from about 7.2 to 8.7 miles with roughly 1,000–1,200 feet of cumulative elevation gain—moderate for most hikers with steady footing.
Are dogs allowed on the hike?
Dogs are not allowed on the Canyon Trail or behind the waterfalls. Leashed dogs are permitted on the Rim Trail and some peripheral trails.
Is there a park entry fee?
Yes. Silver Falls State Park requires a $5 per vehicle day-use pass. Your tour may include this; confirm with your guide.
Can you swim at the waterfalls?
Swimming is not permitted in the canyon near the main waterfalls due to hazards; admire from the trail and designated viewpoints.
What facilities are available at the trailhead?
The South Falls Day-use Area has restrooms, water, picnic areas, and the historic lodge. Services diminish once you’re in the canyon.
Will my phone work on the trail?
Cell service is spotty to nonexistent in the canyon. Download maps in advance and coordinate meet-up points before descending.
What to Pack
Waterproof hikers for slick, spray-soaked ledges; a breathable rain shell for the canyon’s constant mist; a 1–2 liter water bottle since refills are scarce once on trail; a dry bag for phone/camera so you can shoot behind the falls without worry.
Did You Know
Silver Falls State Park protects a series of waterfalls formed where hard Columbia River Basalt overlays softer rock, creating recess caves that allow hikers to walk behind several falls—a feature crafted into trails by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive at the South Falls Day-use Area by 9 a.m. to avoid peak parking; Bring cash or card for the $5 day-use pass; Download offline maps—cell service fades in the canyon; Hike clockwise from South Falls for the best sequence of waterfall views.
Local Flavor
Post-hike, grab a pint at Silver Falls Brewery in Silverton, or refuel with tacos at the town’s small spots along Main Street. If you have extra time, swing by a nearby Willamette Valley tasting room—Silver Falls Vineyards or Willamette Valley Vineyards—for a pour that pairs with waterfall memories.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Portland International (PDX). Trailhead: South Falls Day-use Area, Silver Falls State Park. Drive: ~25 min from Silverton, ~60–80 min from Portland. Cell service: Limited to none in the canyon; better at the rim. Passes: $5 Oregon State Parks day-use fee; guided tours may include entry.
Sustainability Note
This canyon is a living classroom of erosion. Stay on designated paths to protect fragile cliff gardens, keep a safe distance from edges, and pack out everything you pack in—waterfall spray carries microtrash into the creek.