177-foot South Falls

In early spring I journeyed to Silver Falls State Park, about 44 crow-flying miles southeast of home. It was a beautiful day with plenty of sunshine. The Park is truly a gem, and a geological wonder too. In any other state in the continental U.S., the 14 square-miles would surely have been designated a National Park long ago. But, it has to compete with the world-class waterfalls residing in the Columbia River Gorge.

A trail begins at an interesting lodge, constructed originally by the CCC in the 1930’s. The trail passes 10 waterfalls, five of them dropping over 100 feet.  

After walking a short distance from the Lodge, I reached the top of South Falls at 177 feet. The trail then descended down the cliffs and passed behind the Falls. Over the ages Silver Creek and its tributaries have eroded through the basalt layers, forming natural pathways behind several of the waterfalls and creating spectacular canyons of classic rainforest. 

106-foot Middle North Falls

Leaving South Falls, the trail headed north, passing 93-foot Lower South Falls and other tall waterfalls. Because of trail closures due to winter storm damage, I turned around after hiking underneath 106-foot Middle North Falls.

On a loop trail to the Lodge, I enjoyed spotting all the wildflowers in bloom and watching a few chipmunks scrounging for food.

What a great place to visit.