North Umpqua Trail

Highway 138 is the primary route, offering access to many trailheads and waterfalls. If coming from Crater Lake, consider taking Highway 97 west towards Eugene, then connecting to Highway 138, or heading south towards Roseburg and then east on 138.

Absolutely! Highway 138 is known as the 'North Umpqua Scenic Byway' and is packed with waterfalls and viewpoints, making it a destination in itself.

Yes, you can drive from Crater Lake to the North Umpqua area. A common route involves heading west towards Eugene and then south on Highway 138, or taking a more southerly route via Grants Pass and then east.

The trail is long and can be accessed from various points along Highway 138, with popular trailheads near major waterfalls like Toketee Falls and Susan Creek Falls.

Public transportation is very limited in this rural area. Driving your own vehicle or renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the North Umpqua Trail and its surrounding attractions.

No, the North Umpqua Trail and most of its associated waterfalls are part of the Umpqua National Forest and are generally free to access. Some specific recreation sites might have day-use fees, but the trail itself is open to the public.

The trail is open year-round, but access can be affected by weather conditions, especially in winter. Waterfall viewpoints are typically accessible during daylight hours.

For day hiking, no special permits are typically required. If you plan on overnight camping, you may need a wilderness permit or to follow specific dispersed camping regulations within the Umpqua National Forest.

Most waterfalls along Highway 138, such as Whitehorse Falls and Toketee Falls, do not have an entrance fee. Parking at some developed day-use areas might have a small fee.

While the trail itself is self-guided, there are outfitters that offer guided rafting trips on the North Umpqua River, which often include opportunities to hike parts of the trail.

Don't miss Toketee Falls with its unique basalt columns, Whitehorse Falls visible from the parking lot, and the recovering Susan Creek Falls. Wolf Creek Falls is also a beautiful, enchanting spot. +3

The North Umpqua Trail is a long-distance trail, over 70 miles in total, but it's often explored in sections. Many visitors focus on the segments near the waterfalls along Highway 138.

Hiking difficulty varies. Some waterfall access trails are short and easy, like Whitehorse Falls. Others, like parts of the main North Umpqua Trail, can be moderate to strenuous depending on the section. Wolf Creek Falls is described as easy to moderate. +2

Yes! The North Umpqua River is famous for its world-class fly fishing and whitewater rafting. You can also enjoy scenic drives and photography.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots, especially if you plan on longer hikes. Layers are recommended as weather can change, and bring rain gear just in case.

The waterfalls are prime photography subjects, especially Toketee Falls with its unique formations and Susan Creek Falls. The scenic drive along Highway 138 also offers numerous picturesque overlooks. +2

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer harsh shadows, enhancing the beauty of the waterfalls. Midday sun can be very bright.

Be mindful of spray from the waterfalls, which can affect your lens. Consider bringing a lens cloth. Also, some areas might be shaded by dense forest, requiring adjustments to your camera settings.

Drone usage is subject to U.S. Forest Service regulations. Generally, flying drones over wilderness areas, national parks, and sensitive natural sites is restricted or prohibited. Always check current regulations before flying.

Toketee Falls offers dramatic shots of the two-tiered cascade, the basalt columns, and the surrounding mossy forest. Getting closer might require navigating some uneven terrain on the trail.