My Waterfall Wonderland: A Day on the Trail of Ten Falls

By Tina – Hiker Heritage

Some hikes stick with you because they challenge you. Others because they surprise you. But every once in a while, a trail carves itself into your memory simply because it feels like stepping into a dream. That’s what the Trail of Ten Falls did for me—and honestly, I’m still chasing that feeling every time I lace up my boots.

The Start of a Serene Escape

It was a crisp morning in early spring. I was visiting a friend in Salem, Oregon, and she casually mentioned a waterfall hike “less than an hour away.” Waterfalls? Plural? My photographer brain perked up immediately. The next morning, coffee in hand and camera slung over my shoulder, I set off for Silver Falls State Park, completely unaware of how magical the next few hours would be.

The drive alone hinted at something special. Towering evergreens framed winding roads, and mist clung to the canopy like nature’s morning veil. By the time I reached the South Falls Lodge Trailhead, I could already hear the distant thunder of water crashing. I parked, tightened my laces, grabbed my journal, and set out clockwise on the famed loop.

South Falls – The Curtain Rises

My first stop, South Falls, was a showstopper. At 177 feet, it’s not just tall—it’s majestic. The trail takes you right behind the cascade, and let me tell you: standing behind a waterfall, surrounded by mist and echoing roars, is the kind of immersive experience that no photo can fully capture. I stood there a while, hands outstretched, letting the spray hit my face. Instant trail therapy.

As I emerged from behind the falls, a couple sitting on a bench smiled and offered me a granola bar. “You’ve got a lot more beauty ahead,” the woman said, grinning. She wasn’t lying.

A Chain of Cascading Wonders

Every turn of the trail brought a new surprise. Lower South Falls was just as enchanting, though smaller—93 feet—but with a fuller veil. Then came Lower North Falls, a broader fall that seemed to pour over the rock like melted silver. I paused here for a snack break and a quick sketch in my trail journal. I like to draw the falls I visit—not well, mind you, but enough to remember the moment.

When I hit Double Falls, I literally gasped. At 178 feet, it’s the tallest on the trail, and it lives up to its name. Two ribbons of water tumble side by side, crashing into a jade pool below. I set up my camera for a long exposure and stood still for nearly 10 minutes, waiting for the light to hit just right. Worth. Every. Second.

Middle North & Twin Falls – Nature’s Poetry

Drake Falls and Middle North Falls came next. Drake was quaint—like something out of a fairytale—while Middle North? Oh man, it had this wild, layered flow, and you could walk behind it, too. That’s two behind-the-falls moments in one hike. Who designed this trail, a hiking angel?

Twin Falls lived up to its name: delicate, narrow streams flowing side by side. This was a quiet moment for me. No other hikers in sight. Just me, the sound of water, and a curious bird that perched beside me like it was also admiring the view.

North Falls – The Drama Queen

North Falls hit different. You approach it from the side and then walk into this huge, naturally carved amphitheater behind the waterfall. The roar is deafening, and the cavern echoes in the coolest way. I yelled “HELLOOO!” just to hear it bounce back at me. Not mature, maybe, but exhilarating.

By the time I hit Upper North Falls and Winter Falls, the sun had started breaking through the trees. The golden light hitting the water spray? Literal magic. I found a bench near Winter Falls and just sat there, legs tired, heart full. This wasn’t just a hike. It was a moving meditation.

Tips from the Trail

• Wear layers—it can be cool in the canyon and warm up top.
• Bring a microfiber cloth to wipe off camera lenses—so much mist!
• Pack lunch or snacks—there are plenty of scenic benches for picnics.
• Start early—this trail gets popular fast, and quiet moments are worth it.

A Loop Worth Repeating

All in all, the hike took me a little over four hours. That’s because I lingered, photographed, sketched, and just soaked it all in. The official stats say it’s 7.4 miles and 1,200 feet of elevation gain, but honestly, it felt easier than expected—maybe because I was so mesmerized at every turn.

As I made my way back to the trailhead, muddy boots and a memory card full of photos, I felt… grounded. Like I’d been given a small reminder of how powerful and peaceful the natural world can be. And let me just say, if you’ve never walked behind a waterfall, you haven’t lived.

Would I Do It Again?

In a heartbeat. Next time, I might even bring a friend or two. (Though I kind of loved doing it solo.) I’m already planning a return in the fall, when the leaves turn and the water flows heavy from the rain. Until then, Trail of Ten Falls stays bookmarked in my heart—and on my camera roll.

If you're even *thinking* about visiting Oregon, do yourself a favor and make time for this loop. It’s not just a trail. It’s an experience. A literal waterfall wonderland that lives up to the hype. Trust me. – Tina, your trail-loving storyteller

💬 Have you hiked the Trail of Ten Falls?

Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this post with a friend, or explore more reviews from the Hiker Heritage crew.