What Is It?
Hike into a rainforest to see a 177-foot waterfall at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. First opened in 1933, the park is a magnet for hikers and bikers.
Oregon’s Largest State Park
Silver Falls State Park is less than an hour east of Oregon’s capital city, Salem, and contains 9,000 acres. Many of the park’s original trails, walls and buildings were built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Hit the Trail
The park is known for its more than 35 miles of trails, with the Trail of Ten Falls as a highlight. The 7.2-mile loop is classified as a moderate hike, with 800 feet of elevation change. The trail gives great views of the park’s waterfalls and winds behind four of them, providing a unique angle of the falls.
A New View
A few years ago, the park opened the North Rim Trail, which gives a more accessible way to see the North Falls. Beginning from the new North Canyon Trailhead, the 1-mile trail has a compacted surface 6 feet wide. The new North Canyon day use areas also have picnic tables, restrooms and access to the park’s Nature Play Area.
More Information
Silver Falls State Park is open every day of the year. Hours vary according to the season. Parking is $5 per day. To start planning your visit, head to friendsofsilverfalls.net.