Any time of year is the perfect time for a hike in Oregon, but in fall months, the trails are particularly beautiful. Experience a blaze of fall foliage when you head to central Oregon for a stroll on the West Metolius River Trail.
The Metolius River might be one of Oregon's most underrated rivers. It flows from Metolius Springs, heading north until making a u-turn into Billy Chinook Lake. The river has some excellent fly-fishing, and its banks are vibrant with color during autumn months.
To reach the trailhead, take Highway 20 until you reach Road 1419. You'll travel along that road for about 4.8 miles, then hop onto Road 1420 until you see a sign for Canyon Creek Campground. Turn toward the campground, and find the trailhead about a mile down the road.
The rapidly-moving Metolius provides a vibrant soundtrack to your hike. The trail follows the river, so you'll have plenty of picturesque river views the entire way.
As you make your way down the first part of the trail, you'll soon come to some springs tumbling over the banks of the river, creating tiny waterfalls.
The Metolius runs at 50,000 gallons per minute, and is home to trout and kokanee salmon, both of which haunt the dreams of fly-fisherman who frequent the river in hopes of landing a big one.
This Natural Wonder in Oregon is the Definition of a Hidden Gem
Clearwater Falls is a natural wonder hidden in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. It's lesser-known, the trail to reach the falls is short, and it's absolutely gorgeous.
It is no secret that I love Oregon. The Oregon Coast is where I go to calm my troubled heart and the cities are full of adventures. And while there is so much to love in the Beaver State, I am in constant awe of our waterfalls. Multnomah Falls always leaves me inspired, yet this waterfall and several others in the state draw in large crowds, making a day surrounded by these natural wonders a little more hectic. Fortunately, there are dozens of lesser-known waterfalls that are true hidden gems. One of these is a favorite of mine — Clearwater Falls.
Clearwater Falls is a natural wonder in Oregon with unbelievable beauty. Even better, the hike to reach these falls is quick, easy, and perfect for an afternoon adventure. You’ll find this waterfall in the Umpqua National Forest, located just off Highway 138, approximately 70 miles east of Roseburg. The trailhead is near the Clearwater Falls Campground.
You will need to put on your hiking shoes to see this waterfall — it's not a waterfall you can see from the road. However, the trail is only 0.2 miles, has very little elevation gain, and is easy to follow, making it a family-friendly Oregon hike that even little feet can easily tackle.
Despite being a short trail, I strongly recommend that you take your time as you make your way toward the waterfall. You’ll walk through the gorgeous Umpqua National Forest with trees towering above you and the sounds of the Clearwater River bubbling near you.
When you reach Clearwater Falls, be prepared to become mesmerized. This natural wonder falls nearly 30 feet over moss-covered rocks and logs. It’s quite a fairy-tale-esque setting.
At the end of the trail, there’s a bench where you can sit and admire the falls. You'll also find several informational panels that tell you more about the falls and the surrounding area. And because these falls are lesser known, don’t be surprised if you get to enjoy this sight all to yourself. It’s a great place to escape the cares of the world, reap the benefits of nature therapy, and admire Oregon’s natural beauty.
No matter the time of the year, Clearwater Falls deserves a visit. The Clearwater River, which creates the falls, is spring-fed and has a consistent flow all year long. And from any angle, this waterfall is full of beauty. It’s truly the definition of a hidden gem.
Have you visited Clearwater Falls in Oregon? What is your favorite waterfall in the Beaver State? For more waterfalls in Oregon to explore, check out our ultimate waterfall guide.
Oregon in the fall is a magical time, and there are few better places to experience the seasonal beauty than Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. Located just outside of Gaston, a small town southwest of Portland, this nature park offers a 5-mile, out-and-back trail that winds through breathtaking oak savannas, meadows, and woodlands. The combination of sweeping valley views, diverse wildlife, and vibrant fall colors makes this hike a perfect fall getaway.
If you’re planning to visit for peak foliage, late September through early November is the best time. During these months, the trees and plant life explode into warm autumn hues, transforming the landscape into a colorful wonderland. The park’s iconic oak trees, in particular, put on a dazzling display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Cooler temperatures make the hike especially enjoyable, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the changing season.
Chehalem Ridge’s 5-mile trail is moderately challenging, making it suitable for both experienced and beginner hikers alike. With about 600 feet of elevation gain, the hike offers a steady but manageable climb through a variety of landscapes. The trail is well-maintained, though Oregon’s fall rains can leave parts of it a bit muddy, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots. As you make your way through the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a series of stunning overlooks offering sweeping views of the Tualatin Valley. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Hood in the distance, framed by the rolling hills and vibrant foliage below.
One of the highlights of this trail is the variety of landscapes it offers. The hike begins by winding through open meadows dotted with wildflowers, which later give way to dense woodlands where you’ll find towering oaks and Douglas firs. Along the way, you’ll pass through several different ecosystems, from open grasslands to shady, forested sections where moss-covered trees create a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere. In the fall, these sections of the trail are particularly beautiful, with the sunlight filtering through the golden leaves above.
Wildlife is abundant in Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, coyotes, and a variety of birds that call this park home. Birdwatchers, in particular, will enjoy the chance to spot species like the red-tailed hawk, great horned owl, and western bluebird. The park’s diverse habitats attract a wide range of wildlife, making it a great destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Chehalem Ridge Nature Park is relatively new, having opened in 2021. One of the park’s main attractions is its accessibility. It’s located just 45 minutes from downtown Portland, making it an easy day trip for city dwellers looking to escape into nature. The park is open year-round, but fall is arguably the best time to visit due to the stunning foliage and cooler weather.
Parking at Chehalem Ridge is free, and there are no entrance fees, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore Oregon’s natural beauty. The park’s main trailhead offers plenty of parking, though the lot can fill up on weekends, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you’re visiting during peak hiking hours. Basic restroom facilities are also available at the trailhead, so you can comfortably prepare for your hike.
One of the things that makes Chehalem Ridge Nature Park stand out is its multi-use trails. The park is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, so you may encounter others enjoying the trail in different ways. While pets are not allowed on the trail to protect the local wildlife, the park still offers a serene, family-friendly environment for visitors of all ages. The wide, well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate, even for those with little hiking experience, and there are plenty of spots along the trail to stop and take in the views or snap a few photos of the stunning fall foliage.
Chehalem Ridge also offers several picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. Bring a packed lunch and settle in at one of the park’s scenic picnic spots, where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the valley below. If you plan to spend the day, it’s worth packing a camera to capture the incredible landscapes and vibrant colors surrounding you. The park’s open meadows and wooded trails provide endless photo opportunities, especially when the foliage is most colorful in the fall.
advertisement
Chehalem Ridge Nature Park is a must-visit destination during the fall. Its 5-mile trail provides a perfect mix of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and the vibrant colors of autumn, making it one of Oregon’s best-kept secrets for leaf-peeping.
Need some new boots for your autumn hikes? I love the ones at REI. There are tons of great hikes in Oregon to catch the autumn foliage.
