If you are looking for an incredible day trip from Portland, you need to check out Silver Falls State Park. Located just east of Salem, it holds some of the absolute best waterfalls in the Willamette Valley. The standout attraction is the classic Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.2-mile hike that takes you behind roaring waterfalls and through a mossy forest. It is an absolute must! If you want to add a cute small town to your itinerary, make a stop in nearby Silverton for the perfect getaway.
Getting There
- Getting to Silver Falls is super straightforward. From downtown Portland, it is roughly a 1-hour and 15-minute drive heading south down I-5 before cutting east through Sublimity.
- If you plan to stop in Silverton first (or on your way back), the town sits just 15 minutes north of the park along Highway 214. The drive itself is scenic and easy, taking you right through peaceful Willamette Valley farmland.
The Trail of Ten Falls
- The best hike in the park is the Trail of Ten Falls. It is a 7.2-mile loop that takes you deep into the canyon carved by Silver Creek. I highly recommend doing the full loop if you have the time. You will start near the park’s most impressive falls and wind past ten distinct waterfalls while walking under a lush forest canopy. It is a quintessential Oregon hike for a reason, so make sure to put it on your list!
Easy Access: South and North Falls
If you are not up for a full hike, you can easily visit both South Falls and North Falls by parking nearby and taking a short walk. It makes for a scenic, low-effort stop on your drive.
- South Falls: This is THE waterfall to check out. The paved path from the main day-use area offers easy access to the dramatic viewpoint, making it accessible for a quick and rewarding stroll.
- North Falls: Located just up the road, the North Falls parking lot lets you pull up and take a brief walk to an incredible viewpoint. You get a dramatic angle of the waterfall without committing to a long trek.
South Falls Day Use Area
- The South Falls area has everything you need for a comfortable stop. You can head right to the trailhead straight from the large parking lot, or grab a hot coffee and a snack at the cozy cafe. The day-use area is also equipped with modern bathrooms, a visitor center, and a souvenir shop to pick up local maps and keepsakes.
Pratical Info for Your Visit
- Parking Fee: A full-day parking pass costs $10 per vehicle. You can easily purchase your pass at the self-pay kiosks located in the parking lots using card or cash, or use your annual Oregon State Park pass if you already have one.
- Best Time to Go: I love visiting in the fall or late spring to avoid peak crowds while hopefully enjoying drier trails. The park gets extremely busy on weekends, as well as Fridays and Mondays. My best advice is to arrive as early in the morning as possible to secure a parking spot and beat the rush.
Silverton
After your hike, I highly recommend stopping by Silverton. This quaint town is packed with small-town charm and sits just 15 minutes away from Silver Falls. It features a cute downtown district lined with historic storefronts, independent boutiques, and great local restaurants.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Silverton Bake Shop: Stop in for post hike fuel or a yummy pastry.
- Silver Falls Brewery: A relaxed taproom with super good beers and pub bites.
- The Noble Fox: A pub with craft cocktails and good food.
Quick Sites Around Town
- The Oregon Garden: If you have extra time, explore the beautiful display gardens, winding paths, and the historic Gordon House (the only Frank Lloyd Wright home in Oregon).
- Downtown Murals & Antique Shops: Stroll through the historic center to check out Silverton’s murals, local gift shops, and independent vintage stores before calling it a day.
