After writing about Champoeg, a wonderful little gem in Northern Oregon, it was recommended by one of my readers to visit Silver Falls State Park. So, of course, we made a point of checking it out. And I am so glad we did.
At 9,000 acres, Silver Falls is Oregon’s largest State Park, and definitely has it all!
Highlights
- 10 waterfalls
- An abundance of trees
- meadows
- creeks and swimming areas
- playgrounds
- More than 25 miles of trails
- Friendly wildlife 😉
The handsome young buck in the above image wasn’t the least bit concerned about our whereabouts. We approached him with two kids on bikes and a black lab in tow. He watched us for a moment and then gracefully sauntered into some bushes across the road, after stopping for a quick snack of vegetation along the way.
Handy Tips
Please be aware that dogs aren’t allowed in the canyon (where all the waterfalls are). I totally understand it, however, it was still a bit disappointing that we couldn’t bring our trusted companion along with us while hiking.
Also, much of the 25 miles of trails in Silver Falls State Park are for walking only, even though they claim to be ‘multi-use’. Our kids were a little disappointed their bikes weren’t allowed on many of the trails.
Stay more than one night! Our biggest complaint was the fact we only had one night to enjoy all the park had to offer, for it was most definitely not enough!
Trail Highlights
Have you ever wanted to get behind a waterfall?
Hike the Trail of Ten Falls and check out the famous South Falls to see what a 177-foot curtain of water looks like from behind. This nationally recognized hiking trail weaves through a densely forested landscape, passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon, and descends to a winding creek at the forest floor. To fully complete, expect a 7.2-mile loop of moderate hiking with an overall elevation change of 800 feet. However, there are several connecting trails with separate access points which make for shorter routes.
Getting To Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park is approximately 45 minutes east of Salem, Oregon.
We took the scenic route (OR-213N/Silverton Road NE) through the pretty little town of Silverton and then switched to OR-214 S, which meanders through hundreds of Christmas tree farms. We were so baffled by how many of these farms we came across we tried Googling it but came up empty. If any of you are from Oregon and know why there is such a heavy concentration of Christmas tree farms in that one area, please let me know!
Ah yes, Silver Falls State Park is yet another wonderful reason to visit Oregon.
Have you been?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
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