Drift Creek Falls Trail
Hike to a stunning 75-foot waterfall via a dramatic 240-foot suspension bridge through a lush Oregon forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are full, fewer crowds
Drift Creek Falls Trail
Best Time
Waterfalls are full, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a stunning 75-foot waterfall via a dramatic 240-foot suspension bridge through a lush Oregon forest.
"Gorgeous suspension walking bridge with excellent view of the falls slightly below!"
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road is narrow and winding; take your time and use pull-offs.
💰 Day Pass Needed
Purchase a day pass via QR code at the trailhead kiosk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Suspension Footbridge
Over Drift Creek
Walk across a 240-foot suspension bridge offering stunning views of the waterfall below.
Drift Creek Falls
Base of the trail
Marvel at the impressive 75-foot waterfall cascading through a lush, forested canyon.
Old Growth Forest
North Fork Loop Trail
Experience a serene hike through a dense forest of Sitka and Douglas Fir trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Road to Drift Creek Falls
Day Pass & Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road is narrow and winding; take your time and use pull-offs.
💰 Day Pass Needed
Purchase a day pass via QR code at the trailhead kiosk.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is mostly downhill to the falls and uphill back.
📸 Bridge Views
The suspension bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities of the falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road is narrow and winding; take your time and use pull-offs.
💰 Day Pass Needed
Purchase a day pass via QR code at the trailhead kiosk.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is mostly downhill to the falls and uphill back.
📸 Bridge Views
The suspension bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities of the falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Drift Creek Falls Trail is a highly recommended moderate hike on the Oregon Coast, celebrated for its stunning 75-foot waterfall and the iconic 240-foot suspension bridge. Visitors praise the well-maintained trail and the immersive forest experience. While the drive involves narrow, winding roads, most find it manageable and scenic. The uphill return is noted as a moderate challenge, but the destination is well worth the effort.
"This hike is amazing. So peaceful. Easy for kids and dogs on leash are welcome. It’s a little over 3 miles total, out and back. There is a parking lot at the trailhead with a set of two vault style bathrooms. Didn’t smell great, but otherwise as clean as vault restrooms can be. There is a $5 parking fee and I think the pay station is a good ways before you get to the parking area, if I am remembering right, but I paid online and took a screenshot of my QR code because there is no cell service at all. I highly recommend following the trail after you make it past the suspension bridge. It will take you down to the water and the view of the bridge and waterfall from there is breathtaking, especially in the Fall!"
Angelina Jones
"If you enjoy hiking or sightseeing seeing the out doors, then this needs to be on your list of things to see in Oregon! gorgeous suspension walking bridge with excellent view of the falls slightly below! Very easy, but slightly long. 3mi. Round trip walk Will take approx. 45min. Walking normally one way with a several stops along the way to take pic's and let other faster people go by."
s w
"Great hike with an excellent destination.
The road in to the hike is mostly paved though very narrow. It goes down to a single road for approximately the last 6 miles but there are pullouts for when cars compete for space. Just take your time.
Arriving at the Falls there is a good size parking lot with pit toilets. Though it appears you need to have a day pass that you can scan a QR code from a kiosk to purchase.
The trail itself is wide and well groomed with very few roots and rocks.
It's a little bit over 3 mi round trip from the parking lot to the Falls and back. It's all downhill to the Falls and all uphill back but very doable.
The suspension bridge and falls are pretty neat and make the hike destination a good finale.
Overall a very moderate hike."
D. Sheldon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessed via Drift Creek Road (NF-17), about 9.5 miles from Highway 101. The last 6 miles are unpaved and narrow, requiring careful driving. There are pull-offs for oncoming traffic.
The road is mostly paved until the last 6 miles, which are gravel and narrow. Drivers are advised to take their time and be aware of other vehicles.
While the road can be challenging, most standard vehicles can navigate it if driven cautiously. High-clearance vehicles are not strictly necessary but can offer more comfort.
The drive is scenic and winding through the forest. Enjoy the journey, use pull-offs when needed, and don't rush.
Look for the turn-off for Drift Creek Road (NF-17) near mile marker 119 on Highway 101. Follow this road for approximately 9.5 miles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a day pass is required for parking at the trailhead. You can purchase this via a QR code from a kiosk.
The cost of the day pass can vary, but it's typically a few dollars. Check the kiosk at the trailhead for current pricing.
Day passes are available for purchase at a kiosk located at the trailhead parking lot, usually via a QR code scan.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no specific closing hours for the trail itself, but it's best to visit during daylight.
While not explicitly stated, National Forest day-use areas often accept the America the Beautiful Pass. It's advisable to confirm this with the Forest Service or check signage at the trailhead.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The round trip hike from the parking lot to the falls and back is approximately 3 miles.
It's considered a moderate hike. The trail descends to the falls and ascends back, with some varying degrees of slope.
You'll see a beautiful 75-foot waterfall and a 240-foot suspension bridge offering unique views. The trail also passes through a dense, old-growth forest.
Yes, there are pit toilets available at the parking lot.
The trail is generally wide and well-groomed, but the downhill and uphill sections, along with some uneven terrain, may make it challenging for strollers or wheelchairs.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The suspension bridge provides excellent vantage points for capturing the waterfall. The rocks at the base of the falls also offer unique perspectives.
Morning light can be beautiful as it filters through the trees, but the shade provided by the forest canopy means you can get good shots throughout the day.
A tripod can be helpful for capturing longer exposures of the waterfall, especially if you want to smooth out the water's movement.
The entire trail offers scenic beauty, from the dense forest to the dramatic waterfall and the iconic suspension bridge.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the waterfall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Day Trippers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive to Drift Creek Falls
Key Takeaway: Be prepared for a slow, winding drive on a narrow road, especially for the last 6 miles. Patience and cautious driving are essential.
Understanding the Drift Creek Falls Hike
Beyond the main waterfall, there's an option to explore the North Fork loop trail, which ventures through an old-growth forest. This loop is noted as being steeper in places, offering a more strenuous alternative for those seeking a greater challenge.
Key Takeaway: The main trail is a moderate 3-mile round trip with a downhill trek to the falls and an uphill return. The North Fork loop offers a steeper, more challenging option.
The Iconic Suspension Bridge Experience
Travelers often highlight the thrill of walking across the bridge, noting its stability and the spectacular scenery it affords. It serves as the perfect prelude to reaching the base of the falls, where you can further explore the rocky areas and feel the mist from the water.
Key Takeaway: The suspension bridge is a must-see, offering unparalleled views of the waterfall and a memorable walking experience.
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