Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area
Discover two stunning, secluded waterfalls nestled in Oregon's lush coastal forests, offering rewarding hikes for all levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak waterfall flow & fewer crowds
Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area
Best Time
Peak waterfall flow & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover two stunning, secluded waterfalls nestled in Oregon's lush coastal forests, offering rewarding hikes for all levels.
"Two beautiful waterfalls outside of Coos Bay. It's a bit of a drive, but the road is pretty scenic, and of course the waterfalls are spectacular."
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead
The last 3 miles are a one-lane gravel road. Drive cautiously and be prepared for potential washboard sections.
💧 Falls Flow Varies
Visit in spring/early summer for best waterfall views; late summer can have low flow.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Silver Falls
Lower trail
An easily accessible cascade with a refreshing mist, perfect for a relaxing stop.
Golden Falls
Upper trail
A more challenging hike leads to this stunning 100-foot waterfall, often requiring a scramble.
Forest Trails
Wander through lush coastal forests on well-maintained paths, enjoying the serene PNW atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Remote Adventure
Timing is Key for Falls Flow
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead
The last 3 miles are a one-lane gravel road. Drive cautiously and be prepared for potential washboard sections.
💧 Falls Flow Varies
Visit in spring/early summer for best waterfall views; late summer can have low flow.
🥾 Scramble to Golden Falls
Getting close to Golden Falls involves rock scrambling and a steep, potentially slippery slope.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be muddy and rocky, especially near the falls. Wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead
The last 3 miles are a one-lane gravel road. Drive cautiously and be prepared for potential washboard sections.
💧 Falls Flow Varies
Visit in spring/early summer for best waterfall views; late summer can have low flow.
🥾 Scramble to Golden Falls
Getting close to Golden Falls involves rock scrambling and a steep, potentially slippery slope.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be muddy and rocky, especially near the falls. Wear appropriate hiking shoes.
📵 Limited Cell Service
Download offline maps and let someone know your itinerary before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Golden and Silver Falls, describing them as secluded forest gems. The hikes are generally short and rewarding, though reaching Golden Falls requires more effort and caution due to slippery rocks and steep ascents. While the falls can be less impressive in drier months, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural splendor and peaceful atmosphere.
"Great short hikes to some incredible views! There’s some spots where you should be very careful if you’re taking little kids with you. Some spots where you could go swimming. Bathroom and picnic tables at the beginning where you park. Couple different paths but all easy hikes."
Ashley Holcomb
"Nothing like spending a beautiful sunny day in Coos at the falls! It was a beautiful day and the mist from the waterfall was refreshing! Very easy hike but to get underneath it, you have to climb up big rocks and boulders."
Lyss
"Two beautiful waterfalls outside of Coos Bay. It's a bit of a drive, but the road is pretty scenic, and of course the waterfalls are spectacular. From the parking area, each falls is about a 15-20 minute walk, less than half a mile to each. To get close to Golden Falls, it does involve some very minor scrambling, and a climb up a steep, muddy slope. When we were there, a rope with knots tied it it was affixed to a large tree to assist climbing up the steep slope. It was fairly dry at the time, but still slippery, I'm sure if it was wet, the rope would really come in handy to aid climbing up the slick muddy slope. Also the rocks are extremely slippery, due to constant water spray and smooth surfaces. Use caution when hopping between boulders.
Silver Falls is a bit easier to access, the trail is very flat and doesn't require as much effort to get close. There's also a cool little trail that winds down and between huge boulders and pops out near the outlet stream from the falls, which also has some cascades. A downed tree is the perfect spot to sit and relax and listen to the sounds of the falls and babbling stream. We spent a good hour at this falls, just relaxing in the shaded, cool area by the stream. Not a lot of visitors the day we went, but I'm sure in the heart of summer on a weekend it might be a bit more crowded. The long drive keeps the numbers down a bit though. Oregon has some amazing waterfalls, these are two really good ones!"
Allan Ruyters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The natural area is located off Highway 101 in Coos County, Oregon. It's about a 24-mile drive from the highway, with the final 3 miles being a one-lane gravel road. 
No, the final 3 miles of the access road are unpaved gravel.
Since cell service is unreliable, it's highly recommended to download offline maps of the area before you depart. Inform a friend or family member of your travel plans and expected return time.
Yes, there are signs directing you to the natural area, but it's still wise to have your navigation set up beforehand due to the remote location.
While possible, a regular car might find the gravel road challenging, especially after rain. An SUV or vehicle with higher clearance is often preferred.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there is no entrance fee to access Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area, making it a great free outdoor adventure.
As a natural area, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check with the Oregon State Parks department for any specific seasonal closures or advisories.
No advance booking is required for Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area, as it's a natural park with open access.
Yes, there is a small parking area at the trailhead, which also includes picnic tables. It can fill up, especially on busy days.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the parking area, which is convenient for visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hikes to both Silver Falls and Golden Falls are relatively short, typically around 15-20 minutes each from the parking area. Some reviews mention it taking longer to get to Golden Falls due to the terrain.
Silver Falls is generally considered easy and suitable for families with children. Golden Falls involves more scrambling and a steeper climb, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Some visitors have mentioned opportunities for swimming in certain spots, particularly near the base of the falls or in the creeks. Exercise caution due to slippery rocks and currents.
You'll experience lush coastal forests, canyons, and the impressive sight of two distinct waterfalls. The mist from the falls can be very refreshing.
Yes, you can get quite close. To get underneath Silver Falls is easier, but reaching Golden Falls requires climbing over large rocks and boulders, and up a steep, muddy slope, sometimes aided by a rope.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, minimizing harsh shadows.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding forest.
The trails lead to various vantage points. For Silver Falls, the main trail offers good views. For Golden Falls, getting closer involves navigating rocks, which can provide unique perspectives.
Experiment with shutter speeds. A faster shutter speed will freeze the water droplets, while a slower one will create a silky smooth effect.
The slippery rocks and the constant mist can be challenging. Also, the remote location means you'll want to be prepared with extra batteries and memory cards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Golden Falls offers a more challenging hike with rock scrambling, it can still be managed by older children with supervision.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The hike to Golden Falls is particularly appealing for those seeking a bit more of a challenge, with its rocky terrain and steep sections. Nature lovers will appreciate the lush greenery and the distinct character of each waterfall. The sound of the water and the surrounding forest create a truly immersive experience.
Consider bringing binoculars to spot local wildlife and a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty. 📸 Photographers
Experiment with shutter speeds to achieve different water effects – from frozen droplets to silky smooth cascades.
Be prepared for slippery surfaces and potential water spray on your gear; a protective camera cover and lens cloths are advisable. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
Reaching Golden Falls, however, presents a more adventurous experience. The trail involves navigating over large rocks and boulders, and culminates in a steep, often muddy, ascent.
These varying trail difficulties mean you can tailor your visit. Opt for the easier route to Silver Falls for a relaxed experience, or embrace the challenge for a more rewarding encounter with Golden Falls.
Understanding the Falls' Seasonal Flow
During late summer or drier periods, the water flow can significantly diminish, potentially reducing the falls to a trickle.
The Remote Charm and Connectivity
However, it also means that cell phone service is often unreliable or non-existent in the area. Before embarking on your journey, it's crucial to prepare for this lack of connectivity. Download offline maps of the region using your preferred navigation app.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit