The Complete Guide to Silver Falls State Park Trails

There is a reason people call this the “crown jewel” of state parks. At 9,200 acres, it is Oregon’s largest and most diverse state park. To my knowledge, no other state park has a total of ten unique waterfalls, some of which you can actually walk around the back of!

It’s one of my favorite state parks and one I always come back to.

The Perfect Day Trip from Portland or Salem

A short 25-mile drive east of Salem or 53 miles southeast of Portland will get you there. Plan to spend at least a full day here if you want to explore everything. The Trail of Ten Falls Loop is a moderate, 7.2-mile hike will take through all ten of the falls. The trails are very developed – you won’t be negotiating any rocky footpaths or dodging through thick brush. However, the trails can get a bit steep in places (this IS waterfall country), and there are a few steps to climb. But as long as you bring plenty of water and good hiking shoes, you’ll be fine. No pets are allowed on this trail.

There are three main trailheads: South Falls, Winter Falls, and North Falls. All are connected in the same seven-mile loop. So you can hike them all at once, or just hike one or two. At South Falls there is also a café and conference center.

Hiking isn’t the only thing you can do here. There is a primo swimming hole at South Falls. Fishing in many areas. Picnic areas galore. And of course, camping! (See camping details at the bottom of this post). There are over 20 miles of designated trails for biking, horseback riding, and hiking.

🌟 Trails of Silver Falls State Park — Hike, Explore, Fall in Love

Silver Falls isn’t just one trail — it’s a labyrinth of lush paths weaving through old‑growth forest, beside and behind thundering waterfalls, and across ridgelines that offer ever‑changing views of Oregon’s wild heart. There are dozens of trails here, but below are the ones most visitors and adventurers rave about (including distances, difficulty, and what to expect).

🏆 Trail of Ten Falls

Distance: ~7–8.5 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect: The superstar of Silver Falls. This loop combines portions of canyon, rim, and connector trails to take you past 10 breathtaking waterfalls, including South Falls, North Falls, and Winter Falls. Along the way you’ll wend through a moss‑draped forest, cross scenic footbridges, and — the big draw — walk behind several waterfalls for unforgettable, splashy views.

👉 Hiker vibe: A full‑day wander that feels like a nature celebration — bring water, snacks, and a willingness to pause at every cascade.

🌲 Winter Falls Loop

Distance: ~5.0 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect: A slightly shorter version of the big loop with 7 waterfalls included. You’ll trade a bit of distance for concentrated canyon scenery and roaring falls. The loop uses sections of Canyon, Winter, and Rim trails, winding through mossy woodlands and offering great waterfall views without the full commitment of the Trail of Ten Falls.

🍁 Maple Ridge Loop

Distance: ~2.3–2.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect: A perfect option when you want forest beauty and two waterfalls without the long day. This pleasant loop combines Canyon and Maple Ridge trails, descending into the canyon before climbing back up through fern‑lined switchbacks.

💦 South Falls Loop

Distance: ~1.0 mile
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect: Quick and rewarding, this loop centers on South Falls, the signature cascade at Silver Falls. You’ll get classic views, an easy walk behind the drops, and a dose of canyon magic in under an hour — ideal for families or anyone short on time.

I started out at South Falls. As I passed the café and began my descent down the trail, I could already feel the water in the air, even though it was a sunny day and it hadn’t rained for a couple of weeks. My ears confirmed my suspicions that I was close when the sound of rushing waters increased in intensity. The footpath became moist and I noticed the heady smell of wet earth and foliage. I paused, taking a deep breath, fully experiencing the aroma. This is what I leave the city for!

Suddenly there it was…in all its majestic awesomeness. In one of the most spectacular trails in Oregon, the path leading behind the waterfall seems to be literally carved into the center of the cliff, and takes you directly BEHIND the waterfall!

👣 North Falls Viewpoint & Out‑and‑Back

Distance: ~1.2–1.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Expect: A shorter hike that delivers big payoff: North Falls. This trail leads you right to the viewpoint (and behind the waterfall), showing off striking basalt walls and lush creekside forest.

🔄 North Falls Viewpoint Loop

Distance: ~2.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect: A scenic loop that stitches together the North Rim, Canyon, and Twin Falls trails. You’ll see waterfalls and enjoy a more relaxed rhythm than the full Ten Falls circuit, with varied terrain and forest exposure.

 

🐾 Buck Mountain & Howard Creek Loop

Distance: ~7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Expect: A quieter backcountry foray away from the waterfalls. This loop wanders deeper into the park’s rugged side, through serenity and solitude rather than splash zones — perfect if you want to day hike beyond the falls.

🧭 Explorer Sue Tips for Silver Falls Trails

• Trail options galore: Silver Falls has more than 45 miles of trails — this list hits the highlights but adventurous readers can explore even more routes.
• Dogs: Most waterfall‑centric trails do not allow dogs, so check restrictions before you go.
• Footing: Trails vary from paved sections to muddy forest paths — sturdy shoes with traction are a must.
• Seasons: Waterfalls are most impressive in spring, but fall colors and summer’s long days bring their own magic.
• Permits: A day‑use pass is required to park and hike in the park (self‑pay kiosks at trailheads).
• Currently there is a $10.00 day-use pass per vehicle when parking anywhere in the park (self-service kiosks are at all major trailheads.).
• Go Here for more information on the park.
• Bring plenty of water, good walking shoes (waterproof ones are a good idea, as it can get muddy in places), sun protection, hiking poles if you prefer, and SNACKS.
• Camping spots can be reserved at the Oregon State Parks website up to 6 months in advance. There is swimming at South Falls as well as a café.
• For a pdf map of Silver Falls State Park, go here. Hard copies are available at the trails heads.

If You Have Time…

Stop by the Frank Lloyd Wright Gorden House located 20 miles northwest of Silver Falls State Park. If you are any kind of a fan of architecture, you must have a visit. They have guided tours by reservation.