Our journey to Abiqua Falls began with an unexpected encounter. Unsure of how to find the trailhead, we stopped in the small town of Scotts Mills, Oregon, hoping to get directions. As fate would have it, we walked into a local grocery store and struck up a conversation with two Catholic priests who were shopping. To our surprise, they revealed that the waterfall was located on property owned by their Catholic Diocese. These kind priests generously gave us detailed directions, ensuring we wouldn’t miss out on seeing this hidden gem.
From there, we made our way to Abiqua Falls, tucked away in a striking basalt amphitheater. This video captures our hike along the steep, muddy trail and the sheer beauty of the falls, plunging 92 feet into an emerald green pool. We’ll share all the important details, from hiking tips to navigating the rough road leading to the trailhead.
Hiking Tips for Abiqua Falls:
Mileage: The round trip hike is 1.8 miles with an elevation gain of 570 feet.
Difficulty: Moderate, due to the steep and slippery trail. It’s recommended to bring trekking poles for added stability, especially after rain.
Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the trail can be very muddy and slippery.
Road Conditions: The road to the trailhead is rough with potholes and sharp rocks. A high-clearance vehicle is preferred, but you can make it in a regular passenger car if you drive slowly. There are also turnouts where you can park if the road feels too rough.
Trailhead: The parking area is small and unmarked, so be prepared for limited parking (5-7 cars). Look for cars parked along the road and head for the trail on the left.
Trail Conditions: The trail is very steep and requires ropes in some sections for safe navigation. The descent to the creek is especially slippery after rain.
Safety: Stay on the trail, avoid cliff edges, and don’t attempt to bushwhack if the river is high.
Best Time to Visit: Abiqua Falls is accessible year-round, but winter is the best time to visit for fewer crowds. Avoid early spring when the river floods the trail.
Dogs: The trail allows dogs, but be mindful of the steep, slippery terrain.
Hike details:
Hike time: Approx. 46 minutes with an average pace of 2.3 mph
Abiqua Falls is one of Oregon’s most sought-after waterfalls, but it can be tricky to reach. Many are deterred by rumors of a rough road and steep trail. In this video, we’ll show you what we saw when we got there. Whether you're planning your next Oregon waterfall adventure or just love stunning scenery, this video has everything you need to know!
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