Smith River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Smith River Falls
Smith River Falls is a picturesque waterfall in Oregon, tucked into a quiet, forested setting that makes it a favorite for hikers and photographers looking for a peaceful nature escape. The falls present a lovely focal point after a short hike and are often enjoyed as a half-day outing for visitors exploring the surrounding woodlands. The route threads through shaded forest and opens to viewpoints at the falls, making it a satisfying option for hikers comfortable with steady, moderate climbs and looking for a rewarding waterfall destination.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Lower Kentucky Falls (100 ft) lies 9.9 miles to the north.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The path is a clear forest route with some steady uphill sections; expect the surface to be natural tread and potentially slick or muddy in wet weather. Proper footwear is recommended, and the trail is suitable for hikers prepared for moderate climbs and short downhill returns.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Smith River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Smith River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 49°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should exercise caution near the water, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rain, as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Siuslaw River, 13.8 miles away, not on Smith River Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
61 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
10.69 ft
Water depth at gauge
49°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is very cold at 49 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SIUSLAW RIVER NEAR ALMA, OR (22 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
66 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
64 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
61 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
66 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
69 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
69 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
69 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Mapleton hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Smith River Falls Frozen?
Updated about 3 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Smith River Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 63°F to 44°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 61 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Oregon.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Smith River Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Smith River Falls is located along the Smith River in Douglas County, Oregon. It can be accessed via Smith River Road, which is a gravel road. Visitors should check local conditions as the road may be rough in some areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, but space may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
171 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.788174° N, -123.818715° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy shoes, especially during wet seasons, as the trail can be slippery. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the falls without crowds. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Where to Stay
Park Motel and Cabins
The Florentine Waterfront Hotel
Quality Inn Florence
Ocean Breeze Motel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
LOON LAKE RECREATION SITE
13.2 miles away · 52 sites
Overview The Bureau of Land Management's Loon Lake Recreation Site is located in the heart of Oregon's Coast Range at an elevation of 392 feet, just 20 miles east-southeast of Reedsport, Oregon. Loon Lake Recreation Site is one of the Coast Range's few recreation areas with a warm, sandy beach. The lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and other water activities. The site offers a campground and day use area. Loon Lake Recreation Site's operating season is from Memorial Day weekend to S
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Umpqua River and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, both of which offer additional outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Smith River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Smith River Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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