Steelhead Falls
A breathtaking waterfall cascading into a canyon, offering hiking, swimming, and cliff jumping adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Steelhead Falls
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking waterfall cascading into a canyon, offering hiking, swimming, and cliff jumping adventures.
"Favorite gem!!! Love the hike !! .5 miles to the falls! Cliff jumping is a MUST!"
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trail is slick with gravel; good approach shoes are a must!
🚗 Drive cautiously
Gravel road to trailhead has potholes. Go slow!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascading Waterfall
Main falls area
Witness the breathtaking waterfall as it plunges into a rocky canyon, a truly stunning natural spectacle.
Cliff Jumping Spot
Near the main falls
For the adventurous, take a leap from the large rock into the refreshing river below.
Deschutes River Views
Along the trail
Enjoy sweeping canyon views and the crystal-clear waters of the Deschutes River.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Road to Trailhead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trail is slick with gravel; good approach shoes are a must!
🚗 Drive cautiously
Gravel road to trailhead has potholes. Go slow!
💧 Pack for swimming
River is great for a refreshing dip!
📸 Photo ops abound
Stunning views at every turn.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trail is slick with gravel; good approach shoes are a must!
🚗 Drive cautiously
Gravel road to trailhead has potholes. Go slow!
💧 Pack for swimming
River is great for a refreshing dip!
📸 Photo ops abound
Stunning views at every turn.
🐜 Watch for ants
Red ants can be present, especially near picnic spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Steelhead Falls for its stunning waterfall and scenic canyon views, calling it a 'favorite gem.' The short, accessible hike is a major plus, though some note the trail can be steep and the access road rough. The opportunity for cliff jumping and swimming adds to its appeal as a refreshing natural escape.
"This hike to the waterfalls/river is pretty mild. However, wearing good approach shoes would be a good idea. The trail is slick in spots do to sand and small gravel pebbles, its not a difficult trails just a mindful trail. Small elevation gain back and forth, producing a good sweat and good workout. The photo opportunity is out of this world. Lots of opportunities to take a breath and take in the moment. There's a big rock right of the waterfall people gobto jump off.
Dog friendly, but please be careful the river runs fast and the waterfalls are very close and the water runs quickly."
Loree Good
"This trail is about twenty minutes outside of Redmond. Be mindful that the paved road does turn into a gravel road and not well maintained. There are a lot of massive pot holes that could do some serious damage to your vehicle. Drive with caution.
There's plenty of parking and a bathroom on site.
The trail itself is 0.5 miles to the falls. If you continue, the trail will equal to about two miles round trip. Walking down to the falls is a little bit on the steep end and thats the easier part. Walking back up to the parking lot can be challenging because of the steep incline.
When you arrive at the falls, if you're brave enough, you can cliff jump off the rocks and into the river. Otherwise, it's a great area to enjoy a picnic and admire the view."
Dani Councilman
"Hiked this back in August. Gorgeous trail with a beautiful waterfall! The road to the trailhead was all gravel so be prepared. So many places to swim and get refreshed!"
MaryRose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Steelhead Falls is located near Redmond, Oregon, and Mission, British Columbia. The Oregon location is about twenty minutes outside of Redmond. The road to the trailhead is gravel and can be poorly maintained with potholes, so drive with caution.
No, the paved road typically turns into a gravel road that is not well-maintained. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and potential damage to your vehicle if you're not careful.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the trailhead.
Yes, Steelhead Falls in Mission, BC, is about a 1.5-hour drive from Vancouver and is considered a hidden gem for a nature escape.
While many vehicles can access the trailhead, the gravel road with potholes requires careful driving. SUVs or vehicles with higher clearance might be more comfortable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Steelhead Falls is a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to visit.
Steelhead Falls is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
There is no entrance fee to visit Steelhead Falls. It's a public access area.
As it's a natural attraction, advance booking is not necessary or possible for Steelhead Falls.
While generally open, always check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions. Dogs are allowed but must be kept under control due to the fast-moving river.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the main falls is a short 0.5 miles (about 1 km) round trip. However, the trail can extend to about two miles if you explore further along the river.
The hike is considered moderately challenging by some due to steep declines and rocky ground, especially the walk back up to the parking lot. However, many find it an easy and quick hike.
You can admire the waterfall, enjoy the canyon views, swim in the river, fish, and for the brave, cliff jump from the rocks.
Yes, Steelhead Falls is dog-friendly, but owners should be cautious as the river runs fast and the waterfalls are close. Keep your dog on a leash.
The falls, canyon walls, and river offer incredible photo opportunities. It's a popular spot for nature and adventure photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Steelhead Falls. You'll need to travel back to nearby towns like Redmond or Mission for food options.
Yes, Steelhead Falls is a great spot for a picnic. There are areas to enjoy your meal while taking in the views. Be mindful of ants.
No, there are no vendors or food services available at Steelhead Falls. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Consider items that are easy to transport and consume outdoors.
Since it's a natural area, simple, portable foods are best. Think sandwiches, fruit, trail mix, and plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall, the canyon walls, and the river offer stunning photographic opportunities. The viewpoint near the large rock is also popular.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more dramatic effect.
While a professional camera can capture great shots, a smartphone with good camera capabilities is sufficient for most visitors to capture the beauty of Steelhead Falls.
Experiment with different angles, capture the movement of the water with a longer exposure if possible, and don't forget to include the surrounding canyon scenery.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and park regulations before flying a drone at Steelhead Falls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas. While the main attraction is the waterfall, exploring the riverbanks can also be an adventure. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the red ants that can appear.
🚗 Day-Trippers
The scenic beauty and the option for a refreshing dip in the river make it a perfect escape. Just be prepared for the gravel road leading to the trailhead, driving slowly to avoid vehicle damage. Pack a picnic, your camera, and perhaps swimwear for a complete day of enjoyment.
🏞️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes due to the trail's condition. The sound of the rushing water and the fresh mountain air create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Cliff Jumping
It's crucial to emphasize that cliff jumping carries inherent risks. Visitors considering this activity should assess the water depth, currents, and their own abilities carefully. Local advice often highlights the speed of the river and the proximity of the falls, urging extreme caution.
Exploring the Deschutes River Trail
This extended trail system is ideal for those looking to spend more time immersed in nature. You can find more secluded spots for swimming and fishing, and enjoy the diverse scenery of the Deschutes River canyon.
Fishing Opportunities
The clear waters and scenic canyon backdrop make it an appealing spot for a day of fishing. Whether you're fly fishing or using other methods, the river offers diverse spots to cast a line. It's advisable to check local fishing regulations, obtain any necessary licenses, and be aware of the river's conditions, especially concerning the fast currents near the falls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit