After our first Field Report out in the dry heat of Death Valley, I decided to head north for a completely different experience. I made a trip up to Oregon to check out Silver Falls State Park near Silverton. If you haven’t been, this place is basically the capital of waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest.
We spent the day on the Trail of Ten Falls. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a loop that takes you past ten different waterfalls. The trail actually goes behind some of the falls, so you’re walking in natural caves with a wall of water crashing down just a few feet away.
Green, Wet, & Loud
The first thing you notice at Silver Falls is just how green everything is. The trees are covered in moss, and the air smells like wet dirt and pine. It’s the opposite from our dusty hike in Death Valley.
There’s a constant mist in the air from the waterfalls. It’s not quite raining, but everything stays damp. It’s the kind of environment that really shows you why water-resistant gear is important, beyond a storm or heavy rainfall.
What I Learned
Standing behind a waterfall is a unique experience, but it’s tricky if you’re not ready for it. Here are a few things that helped me get through the day without ruining my mood:
Keeping Stuff Dry: Even when you aren't in the rain, the moisture from the falls gets everywhere. Bring a water-resistant pack, and use a waterproof dry bag or hard case for any sensitive camera gear.
Watch Your Step: The stairs near the falls are made of basalt rock and they are almost always slick. Wear shoes with good traction and ensure your gear is balanced well to avoid slipping.
Finding Things in the Dark: Once you get under the heavy tree cover or behind the falls, it gets surprisingly dark. I’d recommend bringing a flashlight to help find your gear (and your footing) through the caves.
Field Notes
The Trail of Ten Falls: It’s about a 7-8 mile loop if you do the whole thing, but you can see the big ones without making the complete loop. You can download the official Silver Falls Trail Map directly from the Oregon State Parks website to see the full Trail of Ten Falls loop and waterfall locations.
Conditions: Damp and slippery. Even on a sunny day, expect the trail near the falls to be slick.
Extra Tip: Bring a small towel or a few microfiber cloths. Your camera lens (and your phone) will be covered in water droplets within seconds of reaching the viewing areas.
Final Thoughts
Silver Falls was a great reminder that you don't have to journey thousands of miles to find great nature views. Sometimes just a bit of elevation and a lot of water is enough for a unique experience. It was a blast to hike through such an interesting environment after my recent trek through the desert.
Where should we head for our next TORCH Field Report? Follow us @torchedc and stay tuned for more reviews and outdoor adventures! -TORCH
