Silver Falls State Park
4.9(10K)google
4.7(365)yelp
Hiking TrailCampingScenic LookoutFamilyOutdoorPhotography SpotMust-SeeLocal FavoriteWaterfallForestCanyon
Overview
Silver Falls State Park is a state park in the U.S. state of Oregon, located near Silverton, about 20 miles (32 km) east-southeast of Salem. It is the largest state park in Oregon, with an area of more than 9,000 acres (36 km2), and it includes more than 24 miles (39 km) of walking trails, 14 miles (23 km) of horse trails, and a 4-mile (6.4 km) bike path. Its 7.2-mile (11.6 km) Canyon Trail/Trail of Ten Falls runs along the banks of Silver Creek and by ten waterfalls, from which the park received its name.
Practical Info
Every day8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Duration4-8 hours
Best TimeRevered globally as the crown jewel of Oregon's state park system, May and June are the ultimate months to tackle the legendary 7.2-mile 'Trail of Ten Falls' during high spring runoff. Arriving by 7:00 AM at the South Falls lodge is paramount; early sun rays strike the mist of the 177-foot South Falls perpendicularly, allowing you to walk on the wet stone ledge directly *behind* the roaring massive water sheet in complete solitude.
Getting ThereTucked into the western Cascade foothills at 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE in Silverton, east of Salem. Driving is the exclusive means of transit: from Portland, take I-5 South to Exit 253 (Salem), follow OR-22 East, and bear north onto the winding mountain forest lanes of OR-214 North for 15 miles straight to the South Falls day-use lot; massive paved parking fields are active. No public transit buses serve this canyon.
Travel Tips
- The 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls charts paths directly behind colossal water sheets (including South and North Falls) via damp, narrow volcanic shelves coated in persistent slick moss and water mist. Casual sneakers, sandals, and canvas footwear are highly hazardous; heavy-lugged, waterproof mountaineering boots are non-negotiable to prevent bone fractures.
- The park layout features two prominent separated vehicle junctions: South Falls and North Falls. Parking at either hub mandates purchasing a $5 daily Oregon State Parks vehicle permit via automated card kiosks instantly upon entry. Rangers constantly audit windshields; failing to display valid proof triggers an expensive administrative citation.
- While dogs are permitted on leash within upper lawn day-use picnic grids, they are universally barred from descending into the deep canyon canyon trail loops due to steep drops; violations are heavily fined. Because the park is a registered National Natural Landmark, operating consumer drones is entirely illegal year-round.
Reviews
Positive
- The unparalleled 'Trail of Ten Falls' is spectacular, packed with ten distinct, gorgeous major waterfalls along a single loop—extremely high-grade.
- The most magical highlight is that the trail walks directly behind the rushing curtains of water at four falls via massive rocky alcoves—unforgettable.
- The park's infrastructure is stellar, boasting large modern visitor centers, historic stone picnic shelters, clean restrooms, and smooth accessible ramps.
- The single-day parking permit is remarkably cheap and lasts all day; it features dedicated horse trails and pet-friendly areas—flawless value.
Heads up
- As Oregon's top state park, weekends and autumn foliage seasons bring exploding crowd densities, paralyzing main lots and causing 2-hour parking queues.
- The full loop stretches nearly 9 miles; the path is perpetually slick from heavy waterfall mist and has lots of steps, challenging poorly-prepared walkers.
- The trail sections directly behind the water are constantly soaked in heavy mist; some rails and stones grow moss, creating slipping hazards for kids/seniors.
- If visiting during the dry late summer months, smaller falls dry up into bare stone walls completely, heavily shrinking the visual impact.