Sometimes a wander is sparked by something you’ve read, stories from a friend, or a video you saw on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube. I stumbled across a video of Oregon’s Silver Falls State Park – Trail of Ten Falls, and instantly knew this was a place I needed to go. Ten waterfalls in one loop trail? Say no more!
So, I grabbed a couple of girlfriends, and off we went. We flew into Portland, rented a car, and drove down to Salem. The drive itself is gorgeous because it takes you through Oregon’s wine country, the Willamette Valley Wine Route—a dreamy stretch of vineyards, rolling hills, and small-town charm. There are more than 700 wineries in this region, and while you could easily sip your way through a long weekend here, we just made a few fun stops before heading into waterfall wonderland.
🍷 Wine & Treats Along the Way
Dobbes Family Winery
📍 240 SE 5th St, Dundee, OR 97115
This was our absolute favorite. Charming interior, great service, and even better conversation. Founded by Joe Dobbes in 2002, this family-owned winery has a laid-back vibe with a seriously cool twist—they serve wine on tap in growlers! Perfect for those who want to take a little Oregon home. Their unique blends, outdoor patio, and cozy tasting room make it a relaxing start to the trip.
Red Hills Market
📍 155 SW 7th St, Dundee, OR 97115
If you’re heading out for a big hike, this is THE place to load up on artisan picnic supplies. Think crusty bread, gooey local cheeses, cured meats, jars of tangy mustard, and sweet jams. We built the perfect trail lunch here and also grabbed some snacks for later. Plus, right around the corner is a liquor store to stock up on waters and protein bars as needed.
🛏 Where We Stayed & Ate
📍 890 Hawthorne Ave SE, Salem, OR 97301
Easy, breezy, clean, and comfy. The perfect no-fuss spot just outside downtown Salem. Coffee and breakfast in the morning made it even better.
Wolfhound’s Bar & Grill
📍 466 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Dinner here was an absolute highlight. The service was upbeat and cheerful, the space is gorgeously decorated (a mix of rustic and modern pub charm), and the cocktails were on point. After a day of travel, it was exactly what we needed.
🌊 The Main Event: Trail of Ten Falls
Now, we’re not just wandering aimlessly here—we did some serious (but stylish) pre-planning. First up: really good hiking shoes. I’m obsessed with my Merrells—comfy straight out of the box, like they were made for my feet and a life of adventure. Add in a light backpack (the kind with all the handy little pouches so you actually remember where you stuffed the snacks), a cute, lightweight waterproof jacket, and a sun hat with a wide brim and a perfect ponytail hole—because function and fashion, thank you very much. Geared up, we were ready!
Bright and early, coffee in hand, we drove to Silver Falls State Park.
Silver Falls State Park – Trail of Ten Falls
📍 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, OR 97385
The 7.2-mile loop trail is like stepping into a fairy tale. Ten waterfalls. Mossy canyons. Towering Douglas firs. And yes—you can walk behind some of these waterfalls! With about 1,300 feet of elevation gain, you’ll feel a good burn in your legs, but the constant “wow” factor makes it fly by.
📍 Parking: We used the North Canyon Parking Area, which has plenty of spaces, restrooms, and great access to start the loop. This also allows you to take a break half-way though at the main rest area that has a cool café as well as restroom and little shopping.
📍 Trail Map: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=main.loadFile&load=_siteFiles%2Fpublications%2F%2F2025-silver-falls---tenfalls-southdistrict.074640.pdf
Starting at the North Canyon Parking Area you’ll walk down Twin Falls Trail till you reach:
1. Twin Falls – A graceful double cascade that drops side by side into a calm pool. It feels like the falls are whispering secrets to each other. The setting is shady, green, and peaceful—perfect start to the adventure. Then go along Canyon Trail to till you reach:
2. North Falls – BOOM. This one steals the show. At 136 feet tall, you can walk behind the roaring curtain of water inside a massive cavern. There are benches carved into the rock where you can sit and just soak it in. Trust me, it feels like nature’s IMAX theater. Then go up the stairs, past the parking lot, and under the bridge to reach:
3. Upper North Falls – Short side spur trail leads you here, and it’s so worth it. A wide, curtain-like cascade tumbling over dark rock. At 65 feet, it’s powerful but somehow still feels serene—like a hidden gem tucked away from the bigger falls. Back track a bit to the Rim Trail – go a little uphill through the most amazing trees and forest – you’ll pass by the top of Winter Falls but you can’t really see it – don’t worry, we will see it on the way back. Keep going till you reach:
🌲 South Falls District
The South Falls District is the hub of Silver Falls State Park, and it’s the perfect place for a midday break. Here you’ll find:
• South Falls Lodge Café – serving coffee, sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. (Yes, their cookies and muffins taste extra good after a few miles on the trail!)
• Gift Shop & Store – full of fun keepsakes, hiking gear, and local goodies. We couldn’t resist a little shopping before heading back out.
• Restrooms & Water Stations – always a welcome sight on a long hike. You can easily refill your water bottle here.
• Picnic Tables & Lawn Areas – shaded spots perfect for breaking out your own snacks.
We spread out our goodies from Red Hills Market, sipped hot coffee from the café, and recharged in the sunshine before continuing on. It’s a lively spot where you’ll see other hikers refueling, families exploring, and plenty of wagging tails from the dog-friendly trails nearby.
After lunch and a little browsing, we followed the signs and hopped back on the trail and follow the signs to:
4. South Falls – Wow! The crown jewel at 177 feet tall! This waterfall is huge and dramatic. The trail takes you right behind the sheet of water where mist fills the air and rainbows often dance in the spray. Once you get LOTS of pictures, and you will want them. Head down Canyon Trail to reach:
5. Lower South Falls – A smaller version of South Falls but equally magical. At 93 feet tall, this one also has a trail that passes behind the curtain of water, and it’s narrow enough that you feel like you’re sneaking through a secret doorway. So much fun. Continue along Canyon Trail and you’ll reach:
6. Lower North Falls – Not the tallest (only 30 feet), but wide and scenic, with mossy rocks and lush greenery framing it. It feels like the kind of spot woodland creatures would gather for a secret party. Then cross over to:
7. Double Falls – The tallest waterfall in the park at 178 feet! This dramatic two-tiered fall plunges with elegance and power, and the sound alone makes you stop in your tracks. It feels straight out of a fantasy movie. Get back on the path and you’ll reach:
8. Drake Falls – At 27 feet, this is more of a charming cascade than a powerhouse, but the cute viewing platform tucked in the trees makes it picture-perfect. Continue a little further on and you’ll reach:
9. Middle North Falls – A fan-shaped stunner at 106 feet. The trail again takes you behind the waterfall, and when the sunlight filters through, it’s pure magic. This was one of my favorites. Then take the split onto Winter Trail to reach:
10. Winter Falls – True to its name, this 134-foot beauty flows best in late fall through spring. It’s tall, skinny, and has a delicate, elegant drop. Like a ribbon of water tumbling through the mossy green forest. Then back track just a little and head back to the North Canyon District Parking Lot. This is steep but only ½ mile. Take your time, a few more photos, and enjoy the amazing adventure you have just had.
🚣 Extra Adventure: River Rafting
The next day, we felt a little tired but oh so happy. But, our feet needed a break. So, we swapped hiking boots for wetsuits and went rafting on the Santiam River with
Oregon River Rafting – Santiam River Trips.
📍 4000 Fairview Industrial Dr SE #210, Salem, OR 97302
🌐 https://oregonriver.com/trips/santiam-river-rafting/
This trip was the perfect mix of fun rapids and jaw-dropping Cascade Mountain scenery. The water was cold (we went in May—wetsuits highly recommended!) but the adrenaline and laughter kept us warm. One of us might have jumped off the rocks for fun and two of us might have fallen overboard in the rapids, but no stress, we were quickly pulled back on board by our competent guides. So much fun!
🍔 One Last Stop: Chapel Pub & Roses
On our way back to Portland, we found the perfect quirky lunch stop:
McMenamins Chapel Pub
📍 430 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217
🌐 https://www.mcmenamins.com/chapel-pub
Housed in a converted church, the Chapel Pub is one of McMenamins’ iconic spots—great food, local brews, and funky decor everywhere you look. After lunch, we strolled the nearby Peninsula Park Rose Garden (700 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217), home to more than 10,000 roses. The perfect way to wind down before heading to the airport.
✨ Inspired?
Here’s the video that sparked this whole wander: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3391143841188723?fs=e&mibextid=wwXIfr&fs=e
Between wine, waterfalls, rafting, and roses, Oregon gave us one unforgettable wander. Silver Falls State Park absolutely lives up to the hype—it’s a magical wander where every step feels like a postcard. 🌿💦
Till next time!
Eat well, move well, wander well 😀
Lyn, WanderLynTravel
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