Silver Falls State Park is one of the most versatile and engaging parks in the Willamette Valley. Situated just outside of Silverton, Oregon, about 25 miles east of Salem on OR-214, the Trail of Ten Falls follows the North and South Forks of Silver Creek past 10 dramatic waterfalls along a moderately sloped river trail. This trail's versatility comes from the three loop options for viewing the falls, making these trails accessible to those looking for a variety of experiences. A short loop option is available for visitors who do not want to travel into the depths of the wilderness for some nice waterfall views, but intermediate and lengthy loop options exist to satisfy the cravings of hiking enthusiasts that have travelled out of the way to spend time in nature.
The trail starts out at the South Falls trailhead from south falls parking lot F. The Trail of Ten Falls is actually a loop trail consisting of 2 trails: Canyon trail and a return trail. From the trailhead, follow signs for Canyon trail to view South Falls immediately next to the parking lot. Follow Canyon trail to Lower South Falls for another spectacular waterfall. Here, tired visitors have the option to return to the parking lot in a 2.8 mile loop via the Maple Ridge trail. Otherwise, continue on Canyon trail to visit Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, and Middle North Falls. Past this last falls, visitors have the option to return to the parking lot in a 5.2 mile loop via that Winter trail. From here the Canyon trail continues moderately along the Silver Creek, past Twin Falls, North Falls, and Upper North Falls. From North Falls, the Canyon trail ends, and the Rim trail returns visitors to the parking lot in a 7.1 mile loop. On the return, stop by Winter Falls on the Winter trail to see the last waterfall before returning to the car.
The Trail of Ten Falls loop trail is an easy trail to follow with well marked signs, wide paths, and moderate elevation gain. The views are spectacular, with 3 possibilities to walk behind these giant waterfalls as the basalt rock they flow over withstands erosion, creating giant ledges to walk under. For anyone in the Northern Willamette Valley, Silver Falls State Park is worth the trip.Overview:
Silver Falls State Park is accessible via OR-214, 25 miles east of Salem.
The Trail of Ten Falls from South Falls trailhead:
2.8 mile loop: Canyon Trail to Maple Ridge Trail
5.2 mile loop: Canyon Trail to Winter Trail
7.1 mile loop: Canyon Trail to Rim Trail
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