Toketee Falls is among the most famous waterfalls in Oregon. It may not be very easy to reach for those going on a classic West Coast road trip, but if you have any stops planned in the Pacific Northwest, they are definitely a surprising hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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How to get to Toketee Falls? Directions and other useful tips
Toketee Falls is located in Oregon along the course of the North Umpqua River near its confluence with the Clearwater River. The nearest town is Gilde, which is about 43 miles away. Crater Lake National Park is not very far if you consider that the nearest viewpoint (Merriam Point) is about 37 miles away (about 45 minutes by car).
To get to the parking lot where the trail to the falls begins, you will have to drive along OR-138 (also called the North Umpqua Highway) to the junction with Toketee-Rigdon Road (also known as Forest Road 34), which you will drive on until you cross the bridge over the North Umpqua River. Once you have gone over the bridge, you will find the parking lot on your left.
The trail begins at the end of the parking lot, where you cannot fail to notice the massive North Umpqua Hydroelectric Project pipeline. If you see water coming out of the pipeline do not worry; it is totally normal. One recommendation to keep in mind is that there can be sudden road closures either because of heavy snowfall in the winter or because of wildfires in the summer.
Therefore, check the official website so you don’t run into any nasty surprises. If then, after visiting Toketee Falls you feel like exploring other beautiful waterfalls in Oregon, I suggest you read our article dedicated to a beautiful Columbia River Gorge itinerary.
Toketee Falls Trail
The hike that starts at the trailhead to get to the falls is about 0.4 miles. You will walk through a relaxing forest of fir, maple, and western red cedar trees skirting the scenic course of the North Umpqua River.
The only caveat is that toward the end of the trail you will have to climb up and down nearly 200 steps that will take you to a terrace with a spectacular view of the falls. If you are wondering whether it is possible to descend to the falls, the “official” answer would be no, because visitors are instructed to stay on the trail without climbing over the safety fences.
However, there are many people who do not abide by this and, as you will also observe, perhaps more people go to photograph the falls farther down from the official viewpoint. Keep in mind, however, that there is no official trail leading to the bottom of the falls, and the descent can be pretty dangerous especially because of the slippery terrain.
Umpqua Hot Springs
Also along the course of the North Umpqua River are these bizarre hot springs that form a sharp contrast (especially in winter with snow) with the surrounding landscape. To reach the beginning of the trail you will first have to travel approximately 4 miles from one parking lot to the other. So calculate about 15 minutes of driving time. Once you have parked, cross the bridge over the North Umpqua River and start walking on the Umpqua Hot Springs Trail.
The distance you will have to cover will be about a mile and a half round trip. Also keep in mind that these are very popular hot springs anyway, (perhaps the most famous in the state) and it is not uncommon to encounter many people soaking in these natural pools. At peak times you will have to wait your turn to relax in the hot water. If you are traveling with children, also be aware that clothing is only “optional” here, so it is not uncommon to find people bathing completely naked. Visitors pay $5 per car.
Where to Stay in the Area
As I mentioned above, the most convenient town is Glide, but if you want to find more options, then your only other choice would be Roseburg a few miles away. Here the hotel selection is definitely wider and you are sure to find something that suits you.
Look for accommodations in the area
Otherwise, if you are also planning to visit Crater Lake National Park, you can check out our tips on where to sleep in or near this beautiful national park.
