The One Trail In Oregon That's Perfect For A Short Day Hike, No Matter What Time Of Year
By Sarah McCosham|Published February 22, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
There’s an embarrassment of riches when it comes to hiking in Oregon. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced hiker, looking for frozen waterfalls or fall foliage, hoping to hike in the high desert or a temperate rainforest, you can find exactly what you’re looking for here in Oregon. There’s one short trail we particularly love because it checks so many different boxes, and that’s the Drift Creek Falls Trail.
The hike to Drift Creek Falls is one of the most beautiful in Oregon, featuring some of our state's finest features: a waterfall, swinging bridge, unrivaled views, and old-growth forest.
You'll find the trailhead for the Drift Creek Falls Trail just south of Lincoln City. The trail is located in the Drift Creek Wilderness area of the Siuslaw National Forest, a lush and wild wonderland full of old-growth trees and emerald foliage.
This scenic trail is just over three miles long and is accessible for all skill levels. The first half of the hike involves a downhill descent as you make your way to the eponymous falls.
Before you know it, you'll hear the melodious sound of Drift Creek Falls. The waterfall plunges 75 feet off a steep cliff into the rocky ravine below. It's a beautiful scene, and a favorite for Beaver State photographers!
You can view the falls from below or above, but we're partial to the latter option. If you're not wary of heights, venture across the 240-foot-long suspension bridge that spans the ravine... and prepare to be dazzled by the views!
This is a beautiful hike any time of the year. In the spring, the verdant green foliage is so lush and lovely, you'll feel as though you're in an enchanted forest.
No matter when you tackle this short and sweet trail in Oregon, you're in for a real treat. So take your time and soak up the views, because there's nothing better than a day spent reveling in the resplendent naturescape of the Beaver State.
Have you hiked this short and sweet trail in Oregon recently? If not, get out there and enjoy… it really is beautiful any time of the year! Learn more and view a map at AllTrails.
And for a year’s worth of bucket-list-worthy hikes in Oregon, check out this post!
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