Oregon’s Best-Kept Secret: Silver Falls State Park

Hopefully it’s not a secret to other Oregonians, but I do wonder how many outside of the Pacific Northwest even know that Silver Falls exists. If we’re comparing natural beauty, this state park easily contends with big name destinations on a global scale.

Although it’s also Oregon’s largest state park, perhaps it has yet to gain its world renown because it’s not particularly close to any other major destinations. (Not that I’d want it to become world famous and draw in too many tourists, but it certainly could – it’s that amazing.)

Silver Falls State Park was one of the first stops we made when returning to Oregon after 2+ years abroad in the Peace Corps, and we’ve made countless visits both before and after.

If you haven’t been, here’s what you’re missing.

Last udpated: August 2022. Originally published: Summer 2015.

Quick Facts about Silver Falls State Park:

• 10+ waterfalls within the 9,000 acre park
• You can walk behind several of the waterfalls
• Hikes with waterfall views range from a few hundred yards to the 9-mile “Trail of Ten Falls” (not counting backcountry trails)
• Day pass: $5 per car
• Nearest towns: Stayton and Silverton, Oregon
• Park includes: campsite, picnic shelters, playground, lodge, and conference center

One thing I am reminded of on each visit is that this place is perpetually green, no matter the season. Thankfully Silver Falls State Park was spared during the 2020 wildfires and maintains its vibrant moss, ferns, and evergreen trees.

Another thing that is pretty common year-round is that the trail gets a bit mucky. If there has been rain any time in the previous week, make sure you wear shoes that can get a little wet and/or dirty. In fact, even mid-summer the trail will be wet in parts. 

Silver Falls Hiking

When it comes to hiking in Silver Falls park, there is something to suit just about every ambition.

If you want minimal exertion, take the flat, paved path from the main (South) parking lot to the look-out above South Falls. Continue just a few yards down on the trail and you’ll have one of the best waterfall views in the State.

For a quick trip with some elevation change, continue around the loop (about 0.5 miles) at the base of the South Falls. You’ll even get to walk behind the waterfall if you want.

The next level up would be hiking from the main South Falls to the Lower South Falls, in which you have the opportunity to walk behind both waterfalls. You can make a 2-3 mile loop by returning to the parking lot via the Maple Ridge Trail.

To add five more waterfalls to your route, hike past the Lower South Falls and cut back on the Winter Trail and Rim Trail for a 5-6 mile loop. This loop hike in Silver Falls took us 1 hour 50 minutes without stops.

The full Trail of Ten Falls loop is about 9 miles and can be accessed from either the North or the South Falls parking lots.

Silver Falls Hiking Trail Map: Trail of Ten Falls

On the Silver Falls trail map above, you can see the hiking route options, the location of the waterfalls, and the trail distances between points.

The main day use parking lot is near the South Falls, with others by the North Falls trail head, Winter Falls trail head, and Twin Falls trail head. On a summer weekday, the parking lots start to fill up around noon. On nice weekends, it can get crowded earlier.

In the South Falls District, there are public restrooms and a cafe. A bike path also passes by the South Falls lodge and continues on the Rim Trail, which is one of the few hiking areas in the park where dogs are allowed (on leash). 

Main South Falls (just steps from the parking lot)

Lower South Falls

Trail along the South Fork of Silver Creek

Moss illuminated by sunlight on South Falls trail

Where to stay near Silver Falls State Park

We really enjoyed the Oregon Garden Resort, which is just outside of Silverton – a charming small town with lots to offer itself. Guests of the resort have exclusive access to the property’s extensive gardens after hours. There is also a restaurant on site.

See our review of the Oregon Garden Resort stay.

Check prices and availability at Oregon Garden Resort >> 
Disclosure: we may receive a small commission if you book through our links, at no additional cost to you

Water Street Inn is a remodeled, historic, 5-bedroom vacation rental right in the heart of beautiful Silverton. With modern comforts and an unbeatable location steps from cute cafes and shops, this is an ideal spot for larger group stays.

Check prices and availability at the Historic Silverton Home on Water Street >>

If you get a chance to visit Silver Falls State Park, I can’t recommend it highly enough. You won’t find a better destination to witness the best of Oregon’s natural beauty, in my opinion.