Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is Oregon's largest state park and a true family adventure destination, famous for its stunning Trail of Ten Falls where you can actually walk behind several waterfalls. With over 9,000 acres of temperate rainforest, multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty, and picnic areas surrounded by towering Douglas firs, it's an unforgettable outdoor experience that will have kids talking about their waterfall hike for years to come.

• ✓Walking behind South Falls, a 177-foot waterfall,one of four falls you can actually walk behind on the trail
• ✓The Trail of Ten Falls featuring ten different waterfalls ranging from 27 to 178 feet
• ✓Lush temperate rainforest with massive Douglas fir and western hemlock trees
• ✓Kid-friendly Junior Ranger programs during summer months
• ✓Year-round picnic areas and shorter nature trails for families with younger children

1. 1.Start at South Falls Lodge for restrooms, snacks, and trail maps,the South Falls viewpoint is just a short walk and offers the most dramatic waterfall experience where you can walk behind the 177-foot cascade
2. 2.Bring extra layers and waterproof jackets even in summer; the trail takes you behind waterfalls where it gets misty and cool, and kids love the adventure of getting slightly wet
3. 3.Download an offline trail map as cell service is spotty, and consider hiking the Trail of Ten Falls counter-clockwise to tackle the steepest sections early when kids have the most energy
4. 4.Arrive before 10 AM on weekends and holidays to secure parking at the main trailheads,the park gets extremely busy during peak season
5. 5.Pack plenty of snacks and water as the full loop takes 3-4 hours, and the concession stand at South Falls Lodge has limited hours and selections

Spring (April-May) offers the most dramatic waterfall flows from snowmelt and fewer crowds than summer, though trails can be muddy. For families, weekday mornings year-round provide the best experience with available parking and peaceful trails. Fall (September-October) brings stunning foliage and comfortable temperatures.

Day-use parking is $5 per vehicle or free with an Oregon State Parks pass. Restrooms and a small snack concession are available at South Falls Lodge (seasonal hours). Trails involve stairs, elevation changes, and can be slippery near waterfalls, so sturdy shoes are essential.

Open year-round, though winter can bring snow and ice making trails challenging (microspikes recommended December-February). Some facilities close in winter including certain restrooms. Spring offers peak waterfall flow, summer brings the warmest weather but largest crowds, and fall features beautiful autumn colors with moderate crowds.

The town of Silverton (20 minutes away) offers family favorites like Silver Creek Coffee House with pastries and kid-friendly sandwiches, and Gather restaurant which has a casual menu including burgers and mac & cheese that appeal to children.