Pinard Falls | A Towering Cascade in Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest
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Tucked deep within the lush wilderness of Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest, about an hour east of Cottage Grove, Pinard Falls is one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring waterfalls in the area. At 105 feet tall, this powerful horsetail waterfall twists through a narrow basalt alcove and plunges into a deep, mist-filled pool surrounded by towering cliffs and vibrant forest growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned waterfall chaser or just looking for a peaceful, scenic hike with a massive reward, Pinard Falls is a must-visit stop along the forest’s lesser-known but incredibly rewarding trails.
Getting to the Trailhead
The Pinard Falls trailhead is located off a quiet forest road, and while signage can sometimes be minimal, it’s not difficult to find with GPS. The parking area is small, with space for about 3–4 vehicles, and there are no bathrooms or other amenities, so come prepared with anything you’ll need for your visit.
Whether you’re a seasoned waterfall chaser or just looking for a peaceful, scenic hike with a massive reward, Pinard Falls is a must-visit stop along the forest’s lesser-known but incredibly rewarding trails.
Hiking to Pinard Falls
The trail to Pinard Falls is 1 mile out and back, and it’s relatively moderate, with a few short climbs and some switchbacks toward the end. The hike begins along an abandoned spur road, descending gradually through a dense second-growth forest. Although it’s not an old-growth area, the trail is thick with trees, lush ferns, and plenty of greenery. Dappled light filters through the canopy, and in the wetter months, seasonal creeks may trickle across the path.
The trail is shaded for most of the way, but there are areas where the sun breaks through beautifully. Good hiking boots are recommended, especially in spring or fall when the trail can get muddy.
About a quarter mile in, the trail begins to descend more steeply through a series of well-graded switchbacks. The forest here becomes even more lush and scenic, with towering Douglas-firs and moss-covered logs lining the trail. As you round one of the bends, you’ll spot a massive fallen tree, its root system forming a natural platform where you’ll catch your first view of the falls.
First Look at the Falls
That first view is stunning. From across the canyon, you get a sense of the height and power of Pinard Falls, and how dramatically it towers above the forest floor. Compared to the nearby Spirit Falls and Moon Falls, Pinard feels massive—and when I first saw it, I was honestly taken aback. Videos and photos just don’t do it justice.
From here, the trail continues with just one more switchback, leading you to the main viewing area. You’ll need to step over or under a few fallen trees, depending on the season, but the trail is generally well-maintained and easy to follow.
At the viewpoint, there’s a bench perfectly placed to sit and take in the scene. The waterfall crashes into the pool below with a force you can feel in your chest, and mist rises high into the air, especially in the cooler months when water levels are higher.
Getting Closer to the Falls
If you’re up for it, you can make your way down to the edge of the water at the base of the falls. Be prepared—the mist here is intense. On a hot summer day, it’s wonderfully refreshing, but on a cold morning, it can chill you to the bone. It also makes photography tricky—but if you’re patient, the light rays that cut through the mist can create stunning visual effects.
One particularly magical moment happened during my visit when the sun began rising behind the waterfall, sending golden beams of light through the mist. It was a surreal, almost otherworldly experience that I’ll never forget.
From the creekside, you can look downstream and take in the beauty of the surrounding area. The forest here is alive with fallen trees, moss, and ferns, and even the downed logs are teeming with new life—reminders of the forest’s endless cycle of growth and renewal.
There’s no official trail beyond this area, but if you’re up for a little off-trail bushwhacking, you can explore further down the creek to find quieter corners and more photo opportunities.
Why Pinard Falls Stands Out
What makes Pinard Falls so special isn’t just its size—it’s the whole atmosphere. The narrow canyon, the misty plunge, the lush, shadowed cliffs, and the sound of the falls echoing off the basalt walls—it all combines into a scene that feels both peaceful and powerful.
While Moon Falls is graceful and delicate, and Spirit Falls has a soft, fairytale charm, Pinard Falls is bold and dramatic. It feels wild, untouched, and grand in a way that’s hard to describe until you see it for yourself.
If you’re planning a visit to this part of Oregon, make Pinard Falls your top priority. It’s a short hike with a big payoff, and it easily ranks among the most impressive waterfalls in the Umpqua National Forest.
Final Thoughts
If you’re chasing waterfalls in southern Oregon, don’t miss this one. Pinard Falls is a reminder of how beautiful and powerful nature can be, even in the quiet corners of the forest. Pair it with nearby Spirit Falls and Moon Falls for a perfect day of scenic hiking and peaceful exploration.
I hope you get a chance to experience it in person! Happy Exploring!
