Silver Falls State Park
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South Falls

4.9
·517 reviews·Silverton, United States

Experience the magic of walking behind a 177-foot waterfall at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon's 'crown jewel'.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Silver Falls State Park

South Falls

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the magic of walking behind a 177-foot waterfall at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon's 'crown jewel'.

4.9
(517 reviews)

"This is a must-visit spot and an ideal place to rest and recharge."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking lots fill up by noon, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot.

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

The Trail of Ten Falls is a moderate hike. Hiking shoes are recommended, but regular shoes can work if you're careful.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

South Falls

South Falls

Silver Falls State Park

Walk behind this majestic 177-foot curtain of water for an unforgettable, immersive experience.

Trail of Ten Falls

Trail of Ten Falls

Silver Falls State Park

Hike a scenic loop passing 10 diverse waterfalls, including the iconic South Falls.

Winter Falls

Winter Falls

Silver Falls State Park

A beautiful, less-visited waterfall that offers a peaceful retreat along the trail.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up by noon. The Trail of Ten Falls can get busy, but the park offers shorter loops if time is limited. Consider weekdays for a more serene experience.

Trail of Ten Falls: What to Expect

This popular 7.2-mile loop takes about 3-4 hours and visits 10 waterfalls, with the unique ability to walk behind South Falls. Wear comfortable shoes, as some sections can be slick.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings (before 9 AM)
Why
Beat the midday rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Walking around South Falls at Silver Falls State Park feels peaceful with mist in the air, the sound of cascading water, and the forest all around. 📍Pacific Northwest 📸 @izak.photography #beautifuldestinations #pnw #nature #pacificnorthwest #waterfalls #pnwexplored #forest #waterfalllovers #discoverearth #divineforest #pnwphotographer #pnwwonderland #pnwadventures #pnwcollective #pnwhiking #p...
izak.photography
14.1K likes • 153.3K views

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking lots fill up by noon, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

The Trail of Ten Falls is a moderate hike. Hiking shoes are recommended, but regular shoes can work if you're careful. Reddit

South Falls at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon #nature #takeahike #pnwlife #wholesome #naturegrandpa #pnw #beblessed
boring.old.guy
62 likes • 915 views
Walking behind South Falls at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. Silver Falls State Park is like a mini version of the Columbia River Gorge. There’s a trail called the “Trail of Ten Falls” which passes 10 waterfalls, 3 of which the trail goes behind the waterfall like this one. Total photos in this clip: 307 Total time to shoot: 16 minutes #silverfallsstatepark #hiking #outdoors #outdoorphotog...
thewildiswaiting
473 likes • 12.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Consider Shorter Loops

If the full 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls seems daunting, shorter trails offer great waterfall views. Reddit

💧 Walk Behind South Falls

Don't miss the unique experience of walking behind the powerful South Falls! Instagram+1

Silver Falls State Park is hands down one of Oregon’s most epic waterfall spots. 🍁💦 We hiked the South Falls trail - an easy 1.5-mile round trip that leads you behind a breathtaking 177-foot waterfall. I only wish we had more time to explore all 10 waterfalls along the Trail of Ten Falls! 📍Silver Falls State Park Oregon, US . . . #SilverFallsStatePark #visitoregon #Silverton #fallhike #SouthF...
lianturnbo
0 likes • 7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking lots fill up by noon, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start to secure a spot. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

The Trail of Ten Falls is a moderate hike. Hiking shoes are recommended, but regular shoes can work if you're careful. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Consider Shorter Loops

If the full 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls seems daunting, shorter trails offer great waterfall views. Reddit

💧 Walk Behind South Falls

Don't miss the unique experience of walking behind the powerful South Falls! Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Mist

Bring your camera to capture the misty, magical atmosphere around the waterfalls. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.9
(517 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Silver Falls State Park for its breathtaking waterfalls, particularly the unique experience of walking behind South Falls. The Trail of Ten Falls is a highlight, offering a rewarding hike with diverse scenery. The park is well-maintained and offers ample facilities, making it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and families.

"This is a beautiful destination with a spacious parking lot and a wide variety of sights and activities to enjoy.

On the opposite side of the waterfall, you’ll find a swimming area, an exercise field for dogs, open grassy plains, scenic trails, and of course, the stunning South Falls. The lodge also offers a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
It’s a state park with excellent facilities—nothing feels lacking. There’s no need to hesitate; this is a must-visit spot and an ideal place to rest and recharge.
The café serves a range of drinks and meals, and the WiFi reception is excellent.
Highly recommended."

Kai Dwd

"It seemed like there was plenty of parking to me when we got there (like 9AM), but when we were leaving (around noon) it was pretty filled up. The hike was among the top 5 I have done. Took us ~ 3 hours to do the entire trail. Totally worth it. Not a hard hike at all imo."

Corey Strock

"What a beautiful park, and pictures hike!
Definitely a must visit, see and hike!
The water falls are beautiful, all of them unique. The trail is long but not too hard!
There are several parking spots if you don’t want to do the whole 7.2 mile hike.
Go check it out!"

Marina Golovatii

What People Like

Stunning waterfalls
Walking behind South Falls
Scenic Trail of Ten Falls

What People Dislike

Parking can fill up
Some facilities dated

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Silver Falls State Park is located in Oregon. The most common way to access South Falls is by driving. The park has a main entrance and a South Entrance, both leading to different trailheads. Parking is available but can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reddit

Public transportation options to Silver Falls State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if available in your area, but be sure to confirm return trip availability.

The park is well-signed, with the 'Trail of Ten Falls' being the most popular route. Maps are available at the visitor center and online. Many visitors use hiking apps for navigation. Reddit

Yes, Silver Falls State Park has a main entrance and a South Entrance. The South Entrance is closer to South Falls, which is a popular starting point for many visitors. Reddit

Silver Falls State Park is about an hour's drive southeast of Salem, Oregon, and roughly 1.5 to 2 hours from Portland, Oregon.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a day-use parking fee for Silver Falls State Park. An Oregon State Parks Pass can save you money if you plan to visit multiple state parks throughout the year. Reddit

Silver Falls State Park is generally open from dawn to dusk year-round. However, specific facilities like the lodge and cafe may have different hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Oregon State Parks website for the most current information.

Tickets are not typically sold in advance for day-use entry. You pay the parking fee upon arrival. For lodging or specific events, advance booking might be necessary.

The Trail of Ten Falls is generally open year-round, but it can be subject to closures due to weather conditions, especially during winter months. Always check park alerts before your visit.

While there aren't specific discounts for park entry itself, purchasing an annual Oregon State Parks Pass is a cost-effective option for frequent visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Trail of Ten Falls is a 7.2-mile loop that takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete. It's considered a moderate hike with some elevation changes and can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls. You can walk behind South Falls! InstagramReddit

To see South Falls and walk behind it, you can do a shorter loop that takes about 1-1.5 hours. If you plan to hike a portion of the Trail of Ten Falls, allocate more time. Instagram

Yes, the park offers a swimming area, an exercise field for dogs, open grassy plains, and scenic trails. The lodge provides a place to relax. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy shorter, paved trails near the South Falls area. The full Trail of Ten Falls might be challenging for very young children, but many families manage it with breaks. Instagram

The park has restrooms, picnic areas, a cafe, and a lodge. The facilities are well-maintained, though some areas might appear a bit dated. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The area directly in front of South Falls offers stunning views, especially when you can walk behind it. The mist can create dramatic lighting. TikTokInstagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The mist can also add a magical quality. TikTok

For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you are planning a professional photoshoot or commercial filming, you will likely need to obtain a permit from Oregon State Parks.

Using a wider-angle lens can help capture the full scale of the waterfalls. Including a person in the frame can also provide a sense of scale. Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Instagram

For silky smooth water, use a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/2 second or longer) with a tripod. For capturing water droplets, a faster shutter speed might be better. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Silver Falls State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The South Falls area is easily accessible and offers a paved path to the viewpoint and behind the waterfall, making it manageable for strollers and young children. Instagram While the full Trail of Ten Falls might be a bit long for very young kids, families can enjoy shorter loops or focus on the most accessible falls. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for the mist – it's part of the fun! Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. The park also has open grassy areas perfect for a picnic or letting kids burn off some energy. The lodge offers amenities like restrooms and a cafe, adding to the convenience for families. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Silver Falls State Park is an excellent value for budget travelers. The primary cost is the day-use parking fee, which is quite reasonable. Investing in an Oregon State Parks Pass ($20 annually) can be a significant money-saver if you plan to visit multiple state parks throughout the year. Reddit

Pack your own picnic lunch and snacks to save on dining costs. The park has numerous picnic areas with tables. While there's a cafe, it's generally more expensive than bringing your own food. The hiking itself is free, offering hours of exploration and stunning natural beauty for minimal expense. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trail of Ten Falls

The Trail of Ten Falls is the crown jewel of Silver Falls State Park, offering a unique opportunity to experience multiple waterfalls in one hike. This 7.2-mile loop is a moderate challenge, typically taking 3-4 hours to complete. The trail winds through lush forests, with several sections allowing you to walk behind the cascading water, most notably at the impressive South Falls.Instagram The path can be damp and occasionally slick, so sturdy footwear is essential. Reddit

While the full loop is rewarding, visitors can opt for shorter sections if time or energy is a concern. For instance, focusing on the South Falls area provides a significant waterfall experience without committing to the entire trail. The park provides clear signage, but having a map or using a GPS app can enhance navigation. Reddit

Key Takeaways for the Trail of Ten Falls:
* Distance: 7.2 miles (loop)
* Time: 3-4 hours
* Difficulty: Moderate
* Highlights: Walking behind South Falls, numerous other waterfalls.
* Tip: Wear waterproof hiking shoes and be prepared for mist. Reddit

Photography Tips for South Falls

South Falls and the surrounding waterfalls offer a photographer's paradise, especially with the unique perspective of walking behind the water. The mist generated by the falls can create a magical, ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing stunning shots. TikTokInstagram Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal, providing softer illumination and reducing harsh shadows, which can be particularly beneficial when dealing with the bright spray of the water. TikTok

When photographing waterfalls, consider using a tripod to achieve a slow shutter speed. This technique blurs the water, creating a silky, smooth effect that many find visually appealing. TikTok Experiment with different apertures to control depth of field and ISO settings to manage light. A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the grandeur of South Falls and the surrounding canyon, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of other, more distant falls. Instagram

Remember to protect your gear from the mist. A rain cover for your camera is highly recommended. Don't forget to capture the experience of walking behind the falls; the unique viewpoint offers dramatic photographic opportunities. Instagram Be patient, as the best shots often come after observing the light and water flow for a while.

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