Silver Falls (Oregon)

Silver Falls State Park is located near the city of Silverton in the Cascade foothills of Oregon, United States. It is the largest state park in Oregon, spanning over 9,000 acres of lush, temperate rainforest.

The Trail of Ten Falls is a spectacular 7.2-mile loop trail within the park that takes hikers past ten distinct, cascading waterfalls. What makes the trail globally unique is that it allows visitors to walk completely behind four of these massive waterfalls, including the 177-foot South Falls.

Unfortunately, dogs and other pets are strictly prohibited on the Canyon Trail (the main Trail of Ten Falls) and other trails that lead to the waterfalls. This restriction is in place to protect the fragile ecosystem, water quality, and local wildlife, though pets are allowed in the developed campground areas.

The park is beautiful year-round, but spring is arguably the best time to visit because the winter rains and snowmelt swell the creeks to their maximum flow. However, visiting in winter offers a quieter experience, and the freezing temperatures occasionally freeze the falling water into stunning ice sculptures.