North Falls | World Waterfall Database

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This waterfall has been surveyed, mapped and measured in person by the World Waterfall Database.

Officially, North Falls is the third tallest waterfall in Silver Falls State Park. It is also the only waterfall in the park you can see without getting out of your car. Neither of these facts should be the reason you visit, however. Come see this waterfall because it is, hands down, the most dramatic waterfall in the area. While South Falls is taller, it lacks both the power and character of North Falls. Starting from the parking area on the trail to the falls, one walks along North Silver Creek, following some pretty cascades, then the trail rises and comes along an exposed cliff where the world ends, and gaping views 150 feet down into the canyon and of the 136 foot waterfall are revealed. To further the experience, the trail descends a flight of stairs, and then passes behind the falls via a massive undercut recess - the largest such alcove I've ever seen.

HISTORY AND NAMES

North Falls is the Official name of this waterfall

The waterfalls of Silver Falls State Park were discovered and named by local photographer June Drake in the late 1880's. North Falls was so named because it is the primary waterfall along North Silver Creek.

Location and directions

Silver Falls State Park is located East of Salem and South of the town of Silverton, along Highway 214. From Interstate 5 in Salem, exit to eastbound Highway 22, and proceed for about 5 miles to SR 214. Exit onto 214 and follow the signs to Silver Falls State Park. North Falls is accessed from the North Falls parking lot, about 18 miles east of Highway 22, and about 14 miles south of Silverton. From the parking lot, cross the footbridge and head right (downstream) for less than 500 feet to cliff top vistas over the falls. The recess behind the falls is reached in another tenth of a mile.

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North Falls is shown in the center. The 10 closest waterfalls within a 8km radius are shown as well (if any). Click any icon or see the list below for more information.

Additional Nearby Waterfalls

Name of Waterfall	Distance
Upper North Falls	0.43 mi / 0.7 km
Twin Falls	0.7 mi / 1.12 km
Winter Falls	0.89 mi / 1.42 km
Middle North Falls	1.03 mi / 1.65 km
Double Falls	1.2 mi / 1.92 km
Drake Falls	1.2 mi / 1.92 km
Lower North Falls	1.25 mi / 1.99 km
Frenchie Falls	1.78 mi / 2.85 km
South Falls	1.82 mi / 2.91 km
Lower South Falls	1.87 mi / 3 km

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Photography tips

North Falls has great potential for all ilks of photographers. For the amateur, the best perspectives are from either side of the falls along the trail, before it enters the alcove behind the falls (the left side is less obstructed). For the more serious, the views from behind the falls looking down the canyon are excellent. I have also seen a great perspective of the falls from the streambed - likely one of June Drake's photos - with a pair of trees in the foreground. Achieving said perspective doesn't look easy, however. Polarizer is recommended, warming filter is a matter of personal taste. Focal length of no wider than 30mm is necessary for standard shots, but for framing the falls from within the alcove, I'd suggest carrying 24mm or wider.

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North Falls Marion County, Oregon, United States