Silver Falls State Park: A First Time Visitor Guide
Silver Falls State Park is considered by many people to be one of the most beautiful state parks in Oregon. It’s famous for its lush, forested landscapes and stunning waterfall hikes, making it a must visit for outdoor enthusiasts in my opinion. With an array of trails, family friendly areas, and scenic viewpoints, Silver Falls offers an unforgettable experience and this guide will help you plan an awesome trip there!
Basic info:
- Name: Silver Falls State Park
- Location: Silverton Oregon
- Fee: $5 per day
- Things to do: Waterfall hikes, picnic, camping and more (see top recommendations)
- Hotels: See top options
Getting There:
Silver Falls State Park is located about 25 miles east of Salem and 60 miles south of Portland, making it easily accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway.
- From Portland: Take I-5 South to the OR-214 South exit, then follow signs for Silver Falls State Park. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
- From Salem: Take OR-22 East and then OR-214 South toward Silverton. The drive from Salem is about 45 minutes.
- Parking: The park has several parking areas, with the South Falls Day-Use Area being the most popular and a convenient starting point for the park’s main attractions. The parking fee is $5 per day, or you can use an Oregon State Parks Pass if you have one.
Gear recommendations:
- Best rated waterproof socks
- Best rated hiking shoes for day hikes (men/women sizes available)
- Best rated hiking backpack for day hikes
- Best rated hiking pole for day hikes
Photos:
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit, with waterfalls at their fullest and vibrant wildflowers blooming along the trails. Temperatures range from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C), making it ideal for hiking.
- Summer (June to August): Summer brings warmer temperatures, usually around 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). While it’s the busiest season, the park’s dense forests offer plenty of shade, making it comfortable for hiking. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- Fall (September to November): Fall offers cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage, making the trails especially scenic. Expect temperatures around 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Late September through October is ideal for catching peak fall colors.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest season, with cooler temperatures between 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C) and occasional snowfall. Trails can be muddy, and some areas may be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
Things to Do:
Hiking the Trail of Ten Falls: The park’s most famous hike, the Trail of Ten Falls, is a 7-9 mile loop that takes you past (and sometimes behind) ten stunning waterfalls. The trail is moderate and the best time to visit it is between spring and summer, although I personally did in the winter and it was fine (but muddy and cold) then. I’ve done this trail personally and loved it and have a full guide to the Trail of Ten falls but here’s some highlights to expect:
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- South Falls (177 feet): Located near the South Falls Day-Use Area, this is the most iconic waterfall in the park. A short spur trail allows you to walk behind the waterfall.
- Lower South Falls (93 feet): Another waterfall where you can walk behind the falls, offering a unique perspective of the water cascading down.
- Middle North Falls (106 feet): A spur trail off the main loop leads you behind this beautiful waterfall for a closer look.
- North Falls (136 feet): This powerful waterfall has a large, basaltic cave behind it, providing an impressive view of the falls.
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South Falls Day-Use Area: This area is the main hub of the park, featuring picnic areas, a playground, and easy access to South Falls. It’s a perfect spot for families, offering restrooms, an information center, and a café.
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- Picnic Spots: The park has plenty of picnic tables and open areas for family gatherings or a quick snack between hikes.
- Nature Store and Café: Located near the South Falls parking area, the Nature Store offers souvenirs, books, and local items, while the café serves refreshments and light meals.
Camping at Silver Falls State Park: The park has a well-maintained campground that is open year-round, with options for tent camping, RV sites, and cabins.
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- Tent and RV Sites: The campground has over 90 sites, with options for tents and RVs up to 60 feet in length. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and access to restrooms with showers.
- Cabins: For a more comfortable stay, the park offers 14 cabins (four of which are pet-friendly). The cabins include heating, electricity, and bunk beds but require you to bring your own bedding.
- Reservations: Campsites and cabins can be reserved online through the Oregon State Parks website, especially recommended during summer and fall.
Biking and Equestrian Trails: The park has designated trails for biking and horseback riding, with several miles of multi-use trails branching off from the main park areas. The Howard Creek Loop is a popular option, offering 4.5 miles of scenic biking trails through the forest.
Horseback Riding: There are over 25 miles of equestrian trails in the park, with trailheads located at the Howard Creek Horse Camp!
Wildlife Viewing and Photography Silver Falls State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and several bird species like woodpeckers and owls. The South Falls area and Trail of Ten Falls are excellent for wildlife sightings, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
Photography: Bring a camera for the waterfalls and lush landscapes, as well as wide-angle and zoom lenses for capturing both grand vistas and detailed shots of flora and fauna!
Tips:
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Some trails, especially near waterfalls, can be muddy and slippery. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with good traction, especially if you plan to explore in spring or winter. I recommend waterproof socks such as the Randy Sun brand.
- Bring a Rain Jacket: The park’s rainforest-like environment can lead to unexpected rain showers, even in summer. Dress in layers, and bring a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable.
- Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds: Silver Falls can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early in the morning to secure parking and enjoy the waterfalls without the crowds.
Nearby Attractions:
- Oregon Garden: Located in Silverton, the Oregon Garden is a beautiful botanical garden with 20 specialty gardens and a tropical greenhouse.
- Silverton Murals: The town of Silverton is known for its colorful murals that depict local history and culture, making for a fun and quick visit.
- Mount Angel Abbey: Just a short drive from Silverton, this Benedictine abbey offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as a museum and library.
- Abiqua Falls: About 30 minutes from Silver Falls State Park is a single waterfall hike to a beautiful spot called Abiqua Falls. It’s a giant waterfall that is harder to reach but the scenery and hike to get there is an adventure.
Final Things to Know:
Silver Falls State Park is a gem in Oregon’s outdoor landscape, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, accessible trails, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you’re hiking the iconic Trail of Ten Falls, enjoying a picnic by South Falls, or exploring the park’s biking and equestrian trails, there’s something for everyone. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your first visit to one of Oregon’s most beloved state parks.
