As I’ve been exploring the waterfalls across Oregon, I have yet to find one that wasn’t worth the journey. Slat Creek Falls is no exception. I had heard that Salt Creek Falls was the second largest waterfall in Oregon. But, upon further research I found that this claim wasn’t true. It’s actually placed 21st on the list of tallest Oregon waterfalls, which is far from second. Yet, when you see that there are hundreds of waterfalls in Oregon, being 21st is still impressive.
Planning
After seeing some of the beautiful photos of Salt Creek Falls online, I had to go get some of my own. Salt Creek Falls sits on highway 58, directly north of Diamond Peak. Days can easily be spent in this area exploring Diamond Peak along with a handful of beautiful lakes (Waldo, Odell, Davis, Crescent). The road trip from Eugene to the Salt Creek Falls day use area would take about an hour and fifteen minutes, so I had plenty of time to get my camera gear ready before sunset.
Trip
The highway out to the falls is well maintained and well paved. Lowell and Oakridge make for nice pit stops along the way if you are heading east on highway 58. I often stop at the Ray’s Food Place in Oakridge for some snacks and a bathroom break.
Conditions
The parking lot and day use area at Salt Creek Falls is very well maintained, rather sizable, and paved. There is a parking fee, but judging by the looks of the place, its going to a good cause. Taking the main path and passing by all the lovely landscaping, it quickly opens up to the waterfall overlook. The overlook hike is incredibly short, but if you want to get closer, you can continue the winding path down the hill. the hike is probably around 3/4 of a mile and full of switchbacks. At the end of the path, there is a metal grated platform that sits at about mid level height to the waterfall. Its a decent spot for photos, but the best angle is for those who dare climb down the cliff past all the foliage in the foreground. I didn’t go down this time, but I will defiantly be heading down to the base next time I visit.
Conclusion
Overall I highly recommend a visit to Salt Creek Falls. It may be underwhelming to drive a long ways just to see it, so plan on seeing a few other sites in the area if that’s the case. But, if you live within an hour and a half, I highly suggest Salt Creek Falls as a small day getaway