1. Tumalo Falls

Spring, Summer or Fall, Tumalo falls boasts impressive views of a stunning 97 foot cascade and is just 15 minutes outside Bend, OR. Challenge yourself with the full 7 mile hike to the top of the falls or walk a quick 0.5 mile out and back to the bottom of the falls for a breathtaking view. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the recreation areas or your bike to access the mountain bike trails. There is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle per day that can be paid on site or picked up ahead of time from one of the Forest Service offices. This hike is quite popular so we recommend you get there early to enjoy the beauty and skip the crowds.

2. Steelhead Falls

This family friendly hike is located near Smith Rock State Park just 15 minutes outside of Terrebonne. Enjoy a scenic stretch of the Deschutes River that offers a perfect place for spotting eagles or enjoying a peaceful picnic. A sandy half mile hike will get you to a viewing platform of the turquoise waters but we recommend venturing another 10 minutes for direct access to the river. Jump, dive, flip or cannonball into the pools for a refreshing reward, or bring a fishing pole and catch yourself a trout. Always be sure to have the appropriate documentation if fishing.

3. Sahalie & Koosah Falls

About an hour’s drive from Sisters, the crystal blue McKenzie river creates two spectacular falls right off HWY126.  While each waterfall has a viewing area near the road, you can also explore the 2.6 mile family friendly Waterfalls Loop Trail to take in views of both waterfalls. Get there early! The parking lot fills quickly and starts spilling over into the highway. Furry friends are allowed on leash.

4. Proxy Falls

Experience the true sensation of seclusion during this 1.6 mile loop hike to one of Oregon’s most photogenic waterfalls! Starting with a 50 minute winding drive up scenic hwy 242, you will soon arrive in the middle of a historic highway…where you’ll continue on foot. The trail is easy to follow and you’ll rarely run into another adventurer this time of year. Keep moving along the trail to reach both the lower and upper falls. Be sure to check out the links below for any closures due to fires as well as information on the new permit requirements starting May 28, 2021 (you don’t need a day pass for this trail). And don’t forget to stop by the Dee Wright Observatory on your drive up for sweeping views and a little touch of history. Information about new permit requirements as of May 28, 2021. 

5. Whychus Falls (locals know it as Chush Falls)

Located just 30 minutes from FivePine in the Three Sisters Wilderness, the 5 mile hike to Whychus Falls offers both family friendly and adventure seeking hikers a chance to get away from the crowds and test their wayfinding abilities. A section of unpaved road leads to an eerie post-fire landscape before traversing the forested trail to this 80 foot wide cascade. The trail is well maintained to the viewpoint but quickly disappears after that. Continue on…creating your own path alongside the river. Keep the river in sight and you will soon reach the roaring Upper Chush Falls (known as The Cascades). A Wilderness Permit is required for day trips and overnight adventures. Both can be purchased at the trailhead. You got this!