Watson Falls | Exploring Oregon’s Third Tallest Waterfall in the Umpqua National Forest
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If you’re looking for one of Oregon’s most impressive waterfalls, look no further than Watson Falls. Nestled in the heart of Umpqua National Forest, this breathtaking waterfall plunges an incredible 293 feet, making it Oregon’s third tallest waterfall. The combination of towering basalt cliffs, vibrant green moss, and the powerful rush of water makes Watson Falls a must-see destination for any nature lover, hiker, or photographer.
Beyond just the waterfall itself, the scenic trail leading to Watson Falls takes you through a lush old-growth forest, alongside the picturesque Watson Creek, and across rocky terrain filled with massive boulders. Whether you’re visiting during the spring melt, the lush greens of summer, or the golden hues of fall, this trail is an unforgettable adventure.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Watson Falls, including how to get there, what to expect on the hike, and the best viewpoints to soak in this incredible waterfall.
Getting to Watson Falls
Watson Falls is located just off Highway 138, often referred to as the Highway of Waterfalls, in south-central Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest. It’s about 60 miles east of Roseburg and just a short drive from other nearby waterfalls like Toketee Falls, Clearwater Falls, and Whitehorse Falls.
The parking lot at Watson Falls is spacious, with overflow parking available along the road if needed. Unlike some remote waterfall locations, this one is easy to access year-round, though snow can sometimes impact travel in the winter months.
The area also features a bathroom and a few benches, making it a convenient spot to take a break before or after your hike.
A Hidden Gem Before the Hike
Before you begin the main trail, I recommend taking a quick detour. Just before the stairs leading up from the parking lot, take a small side path to the right. Here, you’ll find picnic benches next to a serene creekside setting.
Even if you don’t plan on stopping for a meal, this quiet spot is worth a visit. The gentle sounds of flowing water, moss-covered rocks, and dappled sunlight filtering through the trees create a peaceful, secluded atmosphere—perfect for soaking in the beauty of the area before heading up the main trail.
Once you’re ready, you can take a small connecting trail back up to the stairs and main road, where you’ll cross the road to start your journey toward the falls.
Hiking the Watson Falls Trail
The Watson Falls Trail is a moderate, 0.8-mile loop hike, with an elevation gain of about 430 feet. While it’s not particularly long, the steady incline and rock staircases can make it feel more challenging than expected. That said, anyone with moderate fitness should have no problem completing the hike at a comfortable pace.
As soon as you step into the forest, you’ll sense the beauty ahead. Towering Douglas-firs, lush ferns, and moss-covered boulders line the trail, while the sound of rushing water from Watson Creek accompanies you as you climb.
First Views of Watson Creek
One of the first bends in the trail offers side paths leading to Watson Creek. These small detours give you a chance to see crystal-clear water flowing over giant boulders, creating picture-perfect cascades that are especially stunning in the fall, when golden leaves frame the water’s path.
Shortly after, you’ll come across a wooden bench—a perfect place to catch your breath and take in the tranquil surroundings before tackling the next sections of the trail.
First Look at Watson Falls
After ascending rock staircases and winding through the forest, you’ll reach an open viewpoint, where you’ll catch your first distant glimpse of Watson Falls. Even from afar, the sheer height and power of the waterfall is mesmerizing.
This area is also home to one of the most beautiful sections of Watson Creek, where large boulders, vibrant green moss, and thick ferns create an almost mystical scene. Watching the water tumble over and around these massive rocks is a sight in itself.
Crossing the Zigzaging Bridge
Continuing up the trail, you’ll pass through towering boulders, making for a fun and unique experience as you navigate between them. Soon, you’ll reach a wooden bridge that zigzags across Watson Creek, offering yet another stunning perspective of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.
This spot is a great place to stop for photos, as you’ll be directly in the path of the rushing water while being framed by the lush greenery and rocky terrain.
Reaching the Best Viewpoints of Watson Falls
After crossing the bridge, you’ll come to a fork in the trail. Stay to the left to continue toward the main waterfall viewpoint.
This final section of the trail winds through fallen trees, lush vegetation, and rugged rock formations before revealing one of the most breathtaking views of Watson Falls. A bench at this viewpoint provides the perfect place to sit and admire the waterfall’s full height, framed by the towering basalt cliffs behind it.
The first time I stood here, I was in complete awe. Watching the water crash down into a basin of ferns and moss-covered rocks is an unforgettable experience.
For those who want to get even closer, you can continue up the switchbacks for an even more intimate view of the falls. Though the climb is a bit steeper, the reward is worth the effort.
At this final viewpoint, you’ll be face-to-face with the falls, standing at the base of the towering rock wall where the water thunders down from nearly 300 feet above. On warmer days, you can feel the cool mist on your skin, a refreshing reward after the hike.
Returning to the Trailhead
On the way back down, you’ll return to the split in the trail where the sign is posted. You have two options for your descent:
• Retrace your steps down the same way you came.
• Take the loop trail back, which leads through the forest rather than alongside the creek.
The loop trail provides a different perspective of the moss-covered trees, massive Douglas-firs, and peaceful forest floor. Though it doesn’t offer as many water views, it’s still a beautiful and serene walk through the heart of Umpqua National Forest.
As you near the bottom, you’ll return to Watson Creek, where you can take one last moment to enjoy the calm flow of the water before heading back to the parking lot.
Final Thoughts
Watson Falls is one of Oregon’s most spectacular waterfalls, and while it may not be as well-known as some of the bigger names in the state, it absolutely deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Between its impressive 293-foot drop, the scenic and rewarding hike, and the peaceful waters of Watson Creek, this area offers some of the best natural beauty in the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re visiting Highway 138’s waterfall corridor, make sure to add Watson Falls to your itinerary—it’s a breathtaking experience you won’t want to miss.
Happy exploring!
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Trailhead Location
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Also See
Watson Falls: Relaxing Nature Escape
Experience the calming beauty of Watson Falls, Oregon’s third tallest waterfall, as it plunges 293 feet into a lush, moss-covered canyon in the heart of the Umpqua National Forest. This 15-minute video features the soothing sounds of cascading water, rustling leaves, and the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding forest—perfect for relaxation, meditation, or focus.