Silver Falls Day Trip: Quick Facts
Ready to chase some waterfalls? Escape the city buzz of Portland and step into the lush, green paradise of Silver Falls State Park, the “Crown Jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system. Imagine feeling the cool mist on your face as you walk behind a thundering 177-foot curtain of water. This guide has everything you need to plan the perfect, unforgettable day trip in 2025.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Portland | ~55 miles |
| Drive Time | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Estimated Cost (per person) | $25 – $55 (Gas, park fee, food) |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (powerful waterfalls) & Fall (fewer crowds & foliage) |
| Main Hike | Trail of Ten Falls (7.2-mile loop) |
| Hike Duration | 3-5 hours |
How to Get There from Portland
Planning your route to this temperate rainforest wonderland is simple. While there are a few theoretical options, only one is truly practical for a day trip.
Driving to Silver Falls (The Best & Only Way)
Driving is the most direct and flexible way to reach the park. The journey itself is part of the experience, transitioning from urban highway to scenic country roads. From Portland, the drive is straightforward:
- Take I-5 South from Portland towards Salem.
- Take Exit 271 for OR-213 S toward Silverton.
- Follow OR-213 S for about 12 miles.
- In Silverton, follow signs for OR-214 E (Silver Falls Hwy), which will lead you directly to the park entrance in about 14 miles.
The main parking lot is at the South Falls Day-Use Area. A $5 day-use permit is required per vehicle, which you can purchase at automated kiosks. On weekends, especially in summer and fall, this lot can fill up by 10 AM, so arriving early is key!
Transportation Options at a Glance
| Option | Cost (Round Trip) | Time | Convenience/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | $20-$30 (Gas + Permit) | 1 – 1.5 hours each way | Highly Recommended. Offers complete freedom and is the only practical choice. |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | $150 – $250+ | 1 – 1.5 hours each way | Extremely expensive. Finding a return trip is nearly impossible due to no cell service. Not recommended. |
| Public Transport | N/A | 4+ hours each way | Not a feasible option. There are no direct bus or train routes. |
Top Attractions: Hiking the Trail of Ten Falls
The main event at Silver Falls is the legendary Trail of Ten Falls. This 7.2-mile loop is a moderately difficult hike with about 1,300 feet of elevation gain, but it rewards you with an astonishing number of breathtaking waterfalls. For the best views and flow, we highly recommend hiking the loop counter-clockwise starting from the South Falls trailhead.
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South Falls
The star of the show! This magnificent 177-foot curtain of water is the most famous in the park. A wide, paved path leads you into a massive grotto directly behind the falls, allowing you to experience its power from a truly unique perspective. It’s an awe-inspiring start to your adventure.
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Lower South Falls
Just a short hike from its taller sibling, the 93-foot Lower South Falls is a powerhouse. You’ll descend a series of switchbacks to a viewpoint where you can feel the immense spray and hear the thunderous roar as the water crashes into the pool below.
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North Falls
At 136 feet, North Falls offers a different but equally spectacular walk-behind experience. The cavern behind the falls is enormous and cave-like, carved deep into the basalt cliff. The acoustics here are incredible, amplifying the sound of the cascading water.
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Other Notable Waterfalls
The magic doesn’t stop there! As you continue along the loop, you’ll encounter a stunning variety of falls, including the delicate Double Falls, the powerful Drake Falls, and the serene Winter Falls. Each one has its own unique character and charm.
Shorter & Easier Hikes
Not up for the full 7.2-mile loop? No problem! You can still experience the park’s beauty:
- South Falls Loop: A simple 1.1-mile loop that takes you to South Falls and back. The main viewpoint is paved and wheelchair accessible.
- Maple Ridge Loop: A gorgeous 2.6-mile loop that includes South Falls and Lower South Falls.
- Winter Falls Loop: A 0.6-mile trail on the north side of the park that is generally less crowded.
A Perfect One-Day Itinerary from Portland
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Follow this timeline for an amazing and stress-free adventure.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Leave Portland. Grab coffee and a pastry for the road. |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive at Silver Falls, park at the South Falls Day-Use Area, and pay the $5 permit fee. |
| 10:00 AM | Begin the Trail of Ten Falls loop, heading counter-clockwise towards South Falls first. |
| 1:30 PM | Finish your hike. Enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch or grab a bite at the Silver Falls Cafe. |
| 3:00 PM | Explore the historic South Falls Lodge, built by the CCC, and browse the gift shop. |
| 4:00 PM | Optional: Drive 20 minutes to the charming town of Silverton for a celebratory drink at Silver Falls Brewery. |
| 5:30 PM | Begin the scenic drive back to Portland, filled with memories of epic waterfalls. |
Where to Eat In and Around the Park
After a long hike, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Here are some great options for refueling.
Inside the Park ($)
The Silver Falls Cafe, located in the historic South Falls Lodge, is your most convenient option. It offers simple, satisfying cafe fare like burgers, sandwiches, soups, and coffee. It’s the perfect spot to relax without having to leave the park.
In Nearby Silverton ($$)
For more variety, the nearby town of Silverton (a 15-20 minute drive) has some excellent choices:
- The Gallon House: A local favorite known for its classic American pub food and friendly atmosphere.
- Mac’s Place: A well-regarded pub and restaurant with a diverse menu that has something for everyone.
- Silver Falls Brewery: The perfect post-hike stop for craft beer enthusiasts, serving up delicious local brews and solid food.
Insider Tips for a Great Visit
Make your trip even better with these pro tips from seasoned visitors.
- Go on a weekday: If you can, visit Monday through Thursday to avoid the major weekend crowds.
- Arrive early: On any day, aim to be at the South Falls parking lot before 10 AM to guarantee a spot.
- Wear proper shoes: The trails, especially behind the falls, are constantly wet, muddy, and slippery. Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes are highly recommended over sneakers.
- Download offline maps: Cell service is non-existent in most of the canyon. Download a map of the park on your phone before you arrive.
- Pack layers and a rain jacket: The weather in the Cascades foothills can change in an instant. The mist from the falls can also be quite chilly, even on a warm day.
- Bring water and snacks: There are no concession stands along the 7.2-mile trail, so be sure to pack enough fuel and hydration for your hike.
What to Pack Checklist
Don’t leave home without these essentials for a comfortable and safe day at Silver Falls.
- ☑ Daypack
- ☑ Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes
- ☑ Rain jacket (even if the forecast is clear!)
- ☑ Layers (fleece, moisture-wicking shirt)
- ☑ Refillable water bottle (at least 1 liter per person)
- ☑ High-energy snacks and/or a picnic lunch
- ☑ Camera and/or portable phone charger
- ☑ $5 cash or card for the parking permit (or your annual Oregon State Parks pass)
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
A day trip to Silver Falls is one of the best budget-friendly adventures from Portland. Here’s a quick breakdown.
| Item | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Parking Permit (per car) | $5 | $5 |
| Gas (shared with 2 people) | $10 | $15 |
| Food & Drinks | $10 (packed lunch) | $35 (restaurant meal) |
| Total | $25 | $55 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Silver Falls worth visiting?
Absolutely, yes! Silver Falls is famous for a reason. The ability to see ten distinct waterfalls on a single hike, including two that you can walk directly behind, is a unique and magical experience you won’t find almost anywhere else in the country. It is deservedly called the “Crown Jewel” of the Oregon State Parks and is a must-do for any nature lover visiting the Portland area.
How much is a day pass at Silver Falls?
As of 2025, the day-use parking permit costs $5 per vehicle. This pass is valid for the entire day at all day-use areas within the park. You can purchase it at automated kiosks in the main parking lots, which accept cash and cards. Alternatively, a one-year Oregon State Parks permit is available for $30.
How long does it take to visit Silver Falls State Park?
Your visit duration can vary. If you only want to see the main South Falls viewpoint, you can do so in under an hour. To hike the entire 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls, you should budget 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. For a complete and relaxed day trip from Portland, including the hike, lunch, and a stop at the lodge, plan for 5 to 7 hours at the park itself.
What is the best time to visit Silver Falls State Park?
Each season offers a different experience. For the most powerful, roaring waterfalls and lush, vibrant green scenery, the best time to visit is in the spring (April-May). For beautiful autumn colors, pleasant hiking weather, and fewer crowds, visit in the fall (September-October). Summer is popular for its warm weather but the falls have a lower flow and trails are very crowded. Winter offers the most solitude and dramatic falls, but trails can be icy and caution is required.
TL;DR: Your Quick Guide to a Silver Falls Day Trip
Don’t have time to read it all? Here are the essentials:
- Go There: It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Portland. Driving is your only real option.
- Cost: $5 for a parking permit per car. Plan for about $25-$55 per person for the whole day.
- Do This: Hike the 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls (counter-clockwise!). It takes 3-5 hours. You get to walk behind two massive waterfalls.
- When to Go: Spring for booming falls, Fall for fewer crowds and colors. Arrive before 10 AM to get parking.
- What to Wear: Good hiking shoes are a must—it’s slippery! Bring a rain jacket.
- Pro Tip: Download an offline map before you go, as there is no cell service in the canyon.
