Visiting Abiqua Falls for the first time? Need some advice on getting there, parking, hiking, camping nearby, and anything else you might want to check out?
Our complete guide has everything you need to know about visiting Abiqua Falls and the surrounding area, including a list of must-visit waterfalls within driving distance.
What is Abiqua Falls?
Abiqua Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the state of Oregon in the United States. It is situated in Abiqua Creek, which is a tributary of the North Santiam River in the Willamette Valley region of the state.
The waterfall is about 92 feet (28 meters) tall, and its water plunges into a beautiful pool at the base, which is surrounded by towering basalt cliffs covered in green moss and ferns. The area around the falls is covered in lush forest, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Access to Abiqua Falls requires a short but challenging hike through rough terrain, including a steep descent down a slippery trail and a scramble over rocks and boulders. As a result, it is recommended that visitors wear appropriate footwear and take precautions to ensure their safety.
Abiqua Falls: At a Glance
Location: 44.935973344894066, -122.57049186323714
Nearest City/Town: Aumsville or Silverton, Oregon
Height: 92 feet
Stream: Abiqua Creek
Hike: 0.7 miles and 250 feet of gain
Family-friendly: Not for young kids
Pets: Yes, but on a leash.
Other Information: The Abiqua Falls trail is on private property, so make sure to respect any posted signs.
Abiqua Falls Hike
Hiking to Abiqua Falls can be quite an experience. The trail is less than a mile long but does gain almost 300 feet in elevation along the way. This means that there are going to be uphill portions that you need to navigate and which could prove challenging for new hikers.
The trail starts just off Crooked Finger Road NE, which is just northeast of Silver Falls State Park. Most people get there by driving 214 from Highway 22 from Salem, Oregon.
The trailhead road is in very poor shape and requires a high-clearance vehicle to make it there. We highly recommend having at least 18" in clearance if you're going to attempt it.
But, it is possible to park further back along the road and avoid the worst of the driving. This will add distance to the hike, though.
The hike heads south from the trailhead/parking area and can be poorly marked in places. The first obstacle you're going to come across is a steep section with a knotted rope to use for balance. Take this trail until you see two large trees parallel to one another across the river. There is another rope here to help you get across.
Tips for Visitors
There are no bathrooms at the waterfall.
The trail can be wet and slippery, especially in the roped sections.
Make sure to take your time on the rope sections, they're pretty steep!
You need at least 18 inches in clearance to get to the trailhead.
This trail is not great for kids or anyone who has trouble climbing.
Waterfalls Nearby
If you love waterfalls, you're in luck. This area of Oregon is home to more than a few stunning cascades. They include:
Silver Falls State Park
This park is home to the famous "Trail of Ten Falls," which features ten waterfalls, including the South Falls, North Falls, and Winter Falls, among others. It is located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Abiqua Falls.
Butte Creek Falls
This waterfall is located in the nearby Santiam State Forest and features a series of cascades and pools. It is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of Abiqua Falls (pretty much just down the road!). Lower Butte Creek Falls is 20 feet tall, and the upper falls is 70 feet tall.
Shellburg Falls
This waterfall is also located in the Santiam State Forest and features a 100-foot (30-meter) plunge into a pool. It is about 14 miles (23 kilometers) west of Abiqua Falls and will require getting back on Highway 22 and heading toward Salem.
Lower Proxy Falls
This waterfall is located in the nearby Willamette National Forest and features a unique double cascade. It is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of Abiqua Falls. The falls are accessed from 242 and are just west of South Sister. It's 226 feet tall!
Camping Nearby
Here are a few nearby campgrounds if you're interested in staying the night:
Camp Dakota - just north of the falls is Camp Dakota; it's located just off Crooked Finger Road NE.
Silver Falls State Park Campground - this campground is within the state park and is often quite busy, especially in the summer.
Silver Spur RV Park - is northwest of Abiqua Falls and offers spacious lots for RVs.