The Trail of Ten Falls: Hiking and Photography Guide

Experience Oregon’s Most Spectacular Trail

• The Trail of Ten Falls is one of Oregon’s most stunning hikes. This hike features ten unique waterfalls, four of which you can walk behind.

• In this guide, I will be sharing information about each waterfall, including details of the trail, photography opportunities, and other general features that you won’t want to miss out on.

Navigating the Waterfalls

The Trail of Ten Falls is located in Silver Falls State Park, just 35 minutes outside of Salem, OR. The trail forms a large loop, with the exception of two side trails. The hike is rated moderately difficult, with a total distance of 7.2 miles and an elevation gain of 800 feet. Navigating the trail is relatively easy because the path is well-defined, with signs at each trail junction. However, hikers should expect rocky, uneven, and occasionally muddy terrain. On average, hikers complete the trail in 3 to 4 hours.

I’ve outlined the map above to show where I recommend you start the hike. Typically, starting at the South Falls is favored by most hikers due to ample parking space. Alternatively, the North Falls is another option; however, parking availability is more limited.

1. South Falls

The South Falls is the most visited waterfall on the trail. Standing at 177 feet, it is the first of four waterfalls you can walk behind. Crowds tend to flock here due to its easy accessibility. Additionally, the South Falls is unique in that it can be photographed from almost every angle. As a photographer, I spent well over an hour capturing this iconic waterfall. If you plan to bring a camera, I recommend giving yourself some extra time just for this waterfall.

2. Lower South Falls

The Lower South Falls is the second waterfall you can walk behind. Continuing your hike, you’ll only need to travel 0.8 miles from the South Falls to reach this spot. It’s common for many hikers to combine these two waterfalls into a single hike, known as the Maple Ridge Loop. It’s important to keep in mind that behind this waterfall, the path narrows and can be muddy at times. Keep your camera out as you go down the stairs, there are some great shots you can get of this waterfall during the approach.

3. Lower North Falls

Lower North Falls doesn’t stand out as much compared to the other waterfalls on the trail. With its modest height of just 30 feet, its photographic opportunities are rather limited, mostly because your view is confined to the trail. While it may not offer the same awe as the other falls, its subtle features, such as the fallen tree and distant bridge, still add detail that I appreciated.

4. Double Falls

A short side trail will take you to Double Falls. The side trail is easy to miss if you’re distracted. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a small waterfall above the main falls, hence the name Double Falls. With a cumulative height of 184 feet, Double Falls is technically the tallest waterfall on the hike. However, I personally give the glory to South Falls, which is only 7 feet shorter. If only waterfalls could lie about their height.

5. Drake Falls

Drake Falls is visible from a small wooden platform built into the side of the trail. Because of the limited visibility, photography composition was limited to the wooden platform. It’s a simple waterfall, not the most popular, but still enjoyable to see.

6. Middle North Falls

Middle North Falls follows another short side trail detour. This is the third waterfall you can walk behind, and it’s one of my favorites. The path, while narrow with no guardrails, had a fair amount of room and felt relatively safe. Because of its secluded location, there are generally not many people around, which I found enjoyable. While following the trail beyond the waterfall is optional, it eventually hits a dead end.

7. Twin Falls

Twin Falls serves as an excellent spot for a rest along the trail. As the path widens, there’s ample space for larger groups to pause and enjoy the surroundings. However, the waterfall’s visibility is somewhat hindered by surrounding guardrails. It’s important to respect the natural beauty of this area by refraining from going beyond the rails. Additionally, capturing photographs of this waterfall can pose a challenge due to the limited view from the trail.

8. North Falls

North Falls is the second most popular waterfall on the hike and marks the fourth and final waterfall you can walk behind. This 136ft. waterfall becomes visible from the trail once the forest abruptly splits open, offering an unforgettable panoramic view. The area’s massive cliffs and draped vines give it a somewhat jungle-like vibe.

Another beloved feature of North Falls is the extent to which the trail leads you behind the waterfall. As you step under the cave-like formation, you’ll immediately notice a drop in temperature. Benches are conveniently available for those who wish to sit and enjoy the view. The trail is wide, providing ample space for groups to stop and gaze. Located above the North Falls is a parking lot, and yes, bathrooms are available here.

9. Upper North Falls

Upper North Falls is just a short 0.6-mile hike from the North Falls Parking Lot. Follow the trail under the road bridge. As you near the end of the trail, you’ll encounter a set of stairs leading down to the water’s edge. From there, you can admire the view or, if you’re feeling adventurous, carefully traverse the rocks for a closer look. During my visit, I was fortunate enough to see a rainbow in front of the waterfall, resulting in some of my favorite photos.

10. Winter Falls

Winter Falls is the last waterfall you’ll encounter if you follow the order of my guide. To be perfectly honest, I actually had to skip this waterfall because I was running out of daylight. Fortunately, there was a small parking lot located above Winter Falls. I returned to visit it the next morning. During the summer months, Winter Falls tends to only trickle.

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Photography Tips

• Plan some shots before the trip. It’s a good idea to know what you’re trying to capture. However, leave room for your own creativity; not everything needs to be planned out.
  
• Be mindful of your time and avoid spending excessive time in a single area. This way, you’ll be better positioned to explore and experience all the waterfalls.
  
• Keep a lens wipe in your pocket as the waterfalls may spray a small amount of water on your lens, especially if it’s windy. It’s only a small amount of spray; I didn’t need a cover for my camera.
  
• Personal recommendation: Don’t get so caught up in taking photos that you forget to capture any videos. My rule of thumb is that for every good photo, try recording a 5-10 second video. I use my phone for this.
  
• Cloudy days are your friend. Clouds help disperse light and reduce harsh lighting conditions, making for excellent photos. While planning for this isn’t always ideal, luck is definitely involved.

If you’re curious about the gear behind my shots, I have a section at the bottom of this blog detailing each piece of equipment that I use.

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Trail Must-Knows

Seasonal Highlights at Silver Falls State Park

Spring:

• Perfect for capturing waterfalls at their peak flow rate.
• Vibrant flowers and lush greenery abound.
• Mornings and afternoons offer cool temperatures.
• Ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking immersion in wildlife.

Summer:

• Busiest time of year with lively summer camp vibes.
• Waterfalls may have lower flow rates due to hotter temperatures.
• Comfortable hiking conditions and extended daylight hours.
• Despite reduced waterfall flow, summer offers enjoyable hiking experiences.

Fall:

• Resumption of the rainy season brings cooler temperatures.
• Leaves transition to vibrant hues, creating stunning scenery.
• Fewer visitors provide a peaceful and intimate experience.
• Comfortable hiking conditions amidst picturesque foliage.

Winter:

• Limited park hours and daylight hours.
• Cold weather necessitates extra layers and gear.
• Fewer visitors offer solitude to witness snow-capped waterfalls.

Parking Areas

Parking areas include South Falls, North Falls, and Winter Falls. The South Falls parking area, near the park entrance, offers large bathrooms, a café, and a gift shop. Parking at North Falls is limited, but there’s a non-flushable toilet available. Arrive early if you plan to start your hike at North Falls to secure a parking spot. Winter Falls parking is not well advertised, and spaces are limited, with no bathrooms or kiosks available.

Parking Passes

If you reserve a campsite, your camping pass will serve as a parking pass. Otherwise, you’ll need to purchase a $5 parking pass at the kiosks located at the South or North parking area.

Population

If you’re aiming to avoid crowds, I recommend planning your visit during the off-season, such as spring or fall. Additionally, schedule your trip for a weekday and try to avoid Fridays if possible, as weekdays tend to be significantly less crowded. Be prepared for multiple school field trips, as Silver Falls is a popular destination for schools. The most crowded waterfalls are South Falls and North Falls.

Stay Alert

• Silver Falls is home to black bears, cougars, and snakes. Maintain a safe distance and report any sightings.
• Secure all food properly to minimize conflicts with wildlife.
• Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
• Drink water only if it’s properly filtered.
• Respect guardrails and avoid crossing them.

Phone Service

• Silver Falls State Park is located in a remote area, and cell phone coverage is limited.
• According to the Silver Falls website, all cell phones will have access to 911.
• Customers of AT&T and Verizon will experience better reception.
• Free Wi-Fi is available at the South Falls Lodge.

Rules & Reminders

• Pets are NOT allowed on the Canyon Trail, where the majority of the waterfalls are located.
• Drones are NOT allowed anywhere other than the Willamette Valley Viewpoint.
• Stay on the trail to prevent erosion and protect plants and wildlife.
• Leave no trace and pack out all trash.

Where to Stay

Silver Falls Campground:

• Reserve a site online in advance; they fill up quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Located less than a mile from the South Falls parking area.
• Offers 43 tent sites available from May to October.
• Features two bathrooms with showers and flushable toilets.
• On-site amenities include firewood, fire starter, and ice, available for purchase at the self-service kiosk located at the front of the campground.

Silver Falls Cabins: There are 14 cabins on-site that are open year-round.

Airbnbs: If you’re unable to book a campsite within the park, consider exploring nearby Airbnbs.

Oregon Garden Resort: I enjoyed staying here on one of my previous trips. It’s conveniently situated less than 30 minutes from the park, offering breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The beautiful garden area is enjoyable, and the breakfast is delicious.

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Day Trip Essentials

Backpack: The Osprey Talon 22L is my trusted companion for day hikes. Its dual-zippered panel access and plethora of pockets keep my gear organized and easily accessible. Plus, features like the external hydration sleeve make it perfect for this adventure.

Hydration Gear:

• Water Bottle: Nalgene bottles are my go-to choice for staying hydrated on the trail. Their lightweight design and variety of fun colors make them a necessity for my pack.
• Water Bladder: The Osprey Reservoir offers a convenient alternative to carrying a water bottle. Its center baffles and backer plates ensure a comfortable fit and minimal sloshing on the trail.

Safety and Protection Essentials:

• First Aid: First aid is my trailside lifeline. I never hit the trail without it, especially knowing that sections of the trail are less trafficked.
• Bear Spray: Counter Assault bear spray is a must-have for me. With its impressive spray distance and duration, it provides peace of mind in bear country.
• Headlamp: The Black Diamond Spot has been with me on countless adventures. Its bright 400-lumen beam and reliable performance make it essential for night hikes and for emergencies.
• Sunscreen: Sun Bum sunscreen is my go-to for sun protection because it’s not only effective but also free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, gluten, cruelty, and parabens.
• Insect Repellent: Repel 100 is my secret weapon against bugs on the trail. With up to 10 hours of protection, it keeps pesky insects at bay so I can focus on enjoying the outdoors.

Hiking Footwear: Danner boots are my absolute favorite. Made in Oregon, USA, the Danner Mountain Lights have accompanied me on countless adventures. They’re built to last and offer unbeatable comfort and support on the trail.

Rain Jacket: This Marmot Rain Jacket utilizes Gore-Tex technology and a lightweight design to provide reliable protection against the elements, ensuring I stay dry and comfortable no matter the weather.

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Photography Equipment

Camera: I use the Sony A7C. While my camera model has been succeeded by the A7C II, I still love it for many reasons, including its exceptional image quality, compactness, lightweight design, and overall aesthetic.

Lens: For the majority of my adventures, I always bring three lenses covering a wide range of focal lengths, from 17mm to 200mm. It’s advisable for your lenses to have weather sealing for this hike; as there is often spray under the waterfalls, weather sealing is essential to protect your equipment. Here’s a breakdown of the lenses I used most:

• 85% of my photos were taken with my 28-75mm lens.
• 14% with my 17-28mm lens.
• Less than 1% with my 70-200mm lens.

ND Filter: Oregon is one of the best states in the USA for waterfalls. If you’re interested in capturing long exposure photos of the waterfalls, you will need a Neutral Density Filter (ND filters allow you to create silky smooth water effects).

CP Filter: Circular Polarizer Filters reduce reflections and enhance color saturation and contrast without any image degradation.

Tripod: A must-have for capturing long exposure photos. Additionally, I use my Tripod for taking photos of myself with the self-timer feature.

Lens Wipe: I keep multiple Lens Wipes in my loadout. Waterfall spray will likely get on your lens, so it’s helpful to pack multiple wipes.

Extra Battery: Depending on your camera, I’d recommend bringing at least one extra battery.

Memory Card: I trust and use Lexar MemoryCards. By the end of my trip, I had taken around 500+ RAW photos and some videos.