Why settle for one waterfall when you can see at least five in one day? Southern Oregon’s Highway 138 may be better known as the Highway of Waterfalls. Winding through the lush Umpqua National Forest, the scenic Umpqua Waterfall Corridor takes you through fresh mountain air with seventeen waterfalls along the way.
Only a few hours from Eagle Point, the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor is an easy day trip. Start your day at Eagles Market & Gas to fill up your tank, grab coffee, and stock up on snacks and a picnic lunch before heading north toward Roseburg. From there, take Highway 138 east toward Glide, the gateway to the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor. This drive alone is worth the trip with sweeping views of the Umpqua River winding through evergreens and basalt cliffs.
Depending on your pace, you can see half a dozen waterfalls during your day trip. The trailheads are well-marked, and many of the falls are accessible with short walks from the highway. It’s an ideal adventure for families, photographers, and casual hikers.
Top Five Waterfalls Along the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor
1. Deadline Falls
Just outside of Glide, Deadline Falls is a quick stop that packs a big punch. It’s a favorite of local anglers – if you’re lucky, you might spot salmon leaping upstream in late summer and early fall. This waterfall is a great introduction to the corridor’s natural rhythm and the power of the North Umpqua River.
2. Susan Creek Falls
Next along the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor is Susan Creek Falls. This 50-foot cascade is one of the most beloved waterfalls along the route. The 0.8-mile trail that leads you to the falls is mostly flat, making it an easy hike for visitors of all ages. There are picnic tables near the parking area to enjoy your picnic lunch from Eagles Market while taking in the soothing sounds of the forest.
3. Fall Creek Falls
A few miles further east, you’ll find Fall Creek Falls. A moderate 1-mile hike takes you to the falls along a trail that winds through a forest of ferns and old-growth firs. The 120-foot waterfall is postcard-perfect as it dramatically tumbles down a basalt cliff. This stop along the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor is a must for anyone who enjoys a short but rewarding hike.
4. Toketee Falls
Perhaps the crown jewel of the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor, Toketee Falls is one of Oregon’s most-photographed natural wonders. Toketee means “graceful” in Chinook, and it perfectly captures the beauty of this spot. The two-tiered waterfall plunges into a deep blue pool framed by columnlike basalt formations. A short, moderately steep trail leads to a viewing platform where you can take in the scene.
5. Watson Falls
Cap off your day on the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor with Watson Falls. At nearly 300 feet, it’s the tallest waterfall in southwest Oregon. A 0.6-mile loop trail leads to an up-close view of the falls, where mist fills the air and moss blankets every surface. The sheer size and sound of Watson Falls create an unforgettable finale to your day.
Travel Tips for the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor
Starting your day early lets you enjoy a relaxed pace and beat the midday crowds. Be sure to bring layers since the forest stays cool year-round, especially near the falls. Several of the falls have picnic tables so pick up sandwiches and drinks at Eagles Market before you go. Just be sure to help preserve these natural wonders by packing out all of your trash and staying on the marked trails.
The Scenic Route Starts at Eagles Market & Gas
After a full day exploring the Umpqua Waterfall Corridor, take the scenic drive back to Eagle Point, and stop again at Eagles Market & Gas to refuel before you head home. Eagles Market has low prices on quality fuel for your vehicle, hot and cold drinks, snacks, fresh deli items, and Scratch Dig-In-Chicken for lunch or dinner on the go. You’ll also find first-aid kits, personal items, and other everyday and on-the-go essentials. A day of exploring starts at Eagles Market & Gas.