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Difficulty: Easy

Hike Length: 0.2 Miles

Elevation Gain: 32 ft.

Hike Type: Out and Back

Pass Required: None

When to Visit: Spring - Fall

Pets: Dogs on Leash

Kids: Yes

Facilities: Vault Toilet

If you’re looking for a peaceful and easily accessible waterfall in Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest, Clearwater Falls is a must-visit destination. Unlike many waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest that are fed by seasonal runoff, Clearwater Falls is spring-fed, meaning it flows beautifully all year round.

This stunning cascade tumbles gently over moss-covered rocks and fallen trees before feeding into the Clearwater River, a pristine waterway known for its crystal-clear beauty. Surrounded by towering Douglas-firs and vibrant green foliage, Clearwater Falls feels like a hidden oasis, offering the perfect spot for relaxation, photography, and peaceful contemplation in nature.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Clearwater Falls, including trail details, what to expect, and why this little-known waterfall is one of Oregon’s most enchanting locations.

Getting to Clearwater Falls

Clearwater Falls is located along Highway 138, also known as the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, which is famous for its many stunning waterfalls. The falls are about 70 miles east of Roseburg, Oregon, making for a scenic and relatively easy drive. If you’re planning a waterfall road trip, Clearwater Falls is a great stop along with nearby waterfalls such as Toketee Falls, Watson Falls, and Whitehorse Falls.

The trailhead is conveniently located just off the highway, and there’s a small parking area with room for a handful of cars. Since this isn’t one of Oregon’s most well-known waterfalls, parking is usually not an issue, even on weekends.

There are picnic tables available near the parking lot, making it an excellent place to take a break and enjoy a meal in the forest. There are also restrooms here if needed.

Hiking to Clearwater Falls

One of the best things about Clearwater Falls is that there’s almost no hiking required to reach it. Unlike many waterfalls that require long, strenuous treks, Clearwater Falls is just a short, easy walk from the parking area.

The trail is less than 0.2 miles and is well-maintained, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The path is mostly flat, with a few gentle slopes, and follows the Clearwater River, giving you beautiful views of the water as you make your way toward the falls.

As soon as you step onto the trail, you’ll feel immersed in nature. The surrounding forest is dense and filled with lush greenery, moss-covered rocks, and the soothing sound of flowing water.

Experiencing Clearwater Falls

Within just a few minutes, you’ll reach the viewing area for Clearwater Falls, and the sight is absolutely breathtaking. The waterfall is around 30 feet tall, but what it lacks in height, it more than makes up for in beauty.

Unlike more dramatic, sheer-drop waterfalls, Clearwater Falls has a more delicate, cascading flow, tumbling over moss-covered rocks and fallen logs before continuing downstream. The water here is incredibly clear, giving the falls an almost ethereal appearance, especially when the sunlight filters through the trees and reflects off the water.

One of the best parts about Clearwater Falls is that it’s a spring-fed waterfall, meaning it flows consistently all year long. While many of Oregon’s waterfalls dry up or slow to a trickle in the summer months, Clearwater Falls maintains its flow no matter the season.

The viewing area offers multiple vantage points, allowing you to take in the falls from different perspectives. Whether you’re standing near the top of the falls, looking down at the cascading water, or heading to the lower portion of the creek for a more immersive view, each angle offers something special.

There are even benches at the viewing area, making it a perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.

Exploring Beyond the Falls

If you have a little extra time, I highly recommend exploring the area around the falls. The Clearwater River is absolutely stunning, with crystal-clear water tumbling over smooth stones and weaving its way through the lush forest.

Head up the left side of the falls for some fresh perspectives, where you’ll see the river winding through tree roots that come right up out of the ground. It almost looks like the water is bubbling up right here before it tumbles down the waterfall. A bit more exploring and you’ll see the river itself is calm and incredibly clear as it stretches out behind the falls giving it a very serene quality.

Back at the viewing deck, there are more areas to explore. If you’re up for it, you can cross one of the fallen trees to reach the other side of the river—but be cautious, especially if the logs are wet. Alternatively, you can take the safer, more scenic route that leads down and across the river and loops around to the other side. Start by heading behind the viewing deck to find a trail that follows the riverbank. Along this route, you will run into some fallen logs on the trail. You can either go over or under them, or you can up and around the fence to the main trail, and back to the parking lot.

Once back in the parking lot, take the trail on the opposite side from the bathroom. This trail takes you down a small hill and across a bridge, offering an easier and safer way to cross the river. On the other side, turn left onto the road, and soon you’ll see a trail that heads back into the woods along the river. This path leads to some more serene and beautiful spots, and after a short walk, you’ll find yourself at the base of the waterfall once again. This perspective is more unique, allowing you to get up close and feel the refreshing mist of the waterfall.

Final Thoughts

Clearwater Falls may not be the tallest or most famous waterfall in Oregon, but it’s one of the most peaceful and picturesque. With an easy, accessible trail, a beautiful year-round flow, and a stunning forest setting, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing nature escape.

If you’re exploring the waterfalls along Highway 138, be sure to add Clearwater Falls to your list—it’s a hidden gem that truly deserves more attention.
And if you’re planning your first visit, I hope this guide helps you enjoy this beautiful location to the fullest.
Happy exploring!