Why is Oregon an amazing place to visit?
Oregon is a great place to visit for many reasons! Here are a few:
Oregon is home to a diverse array of natural wonders, including Crater Lake National Park, Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, the Oregon Coast, and many other stunning landscapes. These natural attractions offer opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, boating, waterfall hikes, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
Oregon also boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore pioneer settlements, Native American cultural sites, and other historic landmarks. Portland, the state’s largest city, offers a lively arts scene, excellent restaurants, and numerous museums and galleries.
Oregon is a haven for adventure sports enthusiasts. The state offers excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, whitewater rafting, kayaking, surfing, and other outdoor activities.
Oregon is known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly living. Visitors can explore eco-friendly farms, wineries, and breweries, and learn about sustainable agriculture and alternative energy practices.
Oregon offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure that make it a great place to visit!
Planning on doing a road trip through Oregon? It’s a perfect way to check out the state! Check out my blog:
Oregon Road Trip: The Best Hot Springs, Waterfalls and Photo Spots
What is Toketee Falls?
One of the most famous waterfalls in Umpqua National Forest is Toketee Falls, a stunning two-stepped falls that plummets into a large pool in a natural amphitheater built of basalt columns. The 85-foot lower falls and the 28-foot higher falls are visible from the Toketee Falls Viewpoint along this short hike, with a third tier unseen to spectators up the narrow canyon of enormous craters located above the main falls.
The lava in this area originated three-quarters of a million years ago and erupted from vents north of Mount Bailey. They now form the majority of the upper North Umpqua’s notable formations, such as Toketee Falls.
The hike to this stunning waterfall consists of about 200 steps down the canyon’s wall, culminating at the lookout platform above the amphitheater’s dramatic abyss. This is a such an amazing sight to see during a visit to Oregon!
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Toketee Falls Hike Info:
Difficulty: Easy
Seasons: Spring through Fall
Starting Point: Toketee Falls Trailhead
Hike Type: In and out hike
Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 120 feet
Family Friendly: Yes
Amenities: Picnic tables, vault toilet
Toketee Falls Main Trail
The first half mile of the route to this beautiful waterfall is very well-maintained and paved, with steps. Most people will stop at the main viewing platform and not go any farther. The view of the upper falls at the summit is spectacular from this vantage point, but it pales in comparison to the vista you’ll receive if you go a little farther. If you look to the left side of the lookout, the barbed wire has been taken away, revealing a hole through which you can crawl to go down if you decide to continue onwards to the base of the falls.
Note: Remember to respect park signs, rules, and regulations. If park signs indicate the trail down to the falls is closed, please respect these rules for your own safety and the fragility of the environment of this beautiful place.
The Path Down to the Falls
Important information: be aware that the path to get down to the base of Toketee Falls is absolutely not a beginner’s trail. The trail down involves a lot of scrambling, climbing over fallen trees, and bushwacking.
There are some ropes to hang onto as you scale down the cliff wall, which has some sections of the trail that are almost vertical. If you’re an experienced scrambler and willing to take the risk, the reward at the bottom is absolutely amazing!
You’ll be able to see the falls from the lookout, but the most stunning views are definitely from the bottom of the falls. We even went for a swim here – it was chilly, but super refreshing after the exciting climb down!
Is Toketee Falls trail busy?
The Toketee Falls walk may get rather crowded with a lot of people, especially during peak tourist season, weekends, and holidays. However, the route is not as congested as other of the area’s more popular sites, such as Multnomah Falls or Clearwater Falls.
There may be less people on the route during the off-season or on weekdays, making for a more serene and quiet experience. If you want a calmer experience, check the trail’s current conditions and plan appropriately to avoid busy hours, such as going first thing in the morning or later in the day.
What should I pack for a hike to Toketee Falls?
When planning a trip to Toketee Falls, here are some items you should consider packing:
Water: It is important to stay hydrated, especially during days of physical activity. Bring enough water to stay well hydrated for the duration of your hike.
Snacks: You may want to pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up during the hike. Trail mix, energy bars, and fresh fruit are good options.
Comfortable Shoes: The trail to Toketee Falls viewpoint lookout is a relatively easy hike, but it is still important to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes with good traction. If you’re going further, you’ll definitely want grippy hiking boots.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Oregon weather can be unpredictable, so it is best to be prepared for all types of weather conditions. Check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly, including rain gear if needed.
Sun Protection: Even if it is overcast, it is important to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Camera: You’ll definitely want to capture the beauty of Toketee Falls, so don’t forget to bring your camera or at least a smartphone!
Small First Aid Kit: It is always a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit with you on a hike, including band-aids, gauze, and antiseptic.
Where is Toketee Falls Located?
Toketee Falls is located in the Umpqua National Forest in the Pacific Northwest – more specifically, in Douglas County, Oregon, United States. The falls are situated on the North Umpqua River, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Roseburg, Oregon. This is one of the area’s most popular waterfalls.
How to Get to Toketee Falls?
The two-tiered falls, Toketee Falls, is located in the beautiful state of Oregon in the United States, on the banks of the North Umpqua River and near its confluence with the Clearwater River. Gilde, about 43 miles distant, is the nearest town. Crater Lake National Park is also not that far away (about 45 minutes’ drive by car).
To get to the parking area where the trail to the falls begins, take OR-138 (also known as the North Umpqua Highway) to the intersection of Toketee-Rigdon Road (also known as Forest Road 34). From here, you will follow the road signs until you pass the North Umpqua River bridge. After crossing the bridge, the parking lot will be on your left.
The hike begins at the far end of the parking area, near an enormous pipeline that is part of the North Umpqua Hydroelectric Project. If you notice water flowing out of the pipeline, don’t be alarmed; this is very normal. Road closures might occur unexpectedly in this area, either due to severe snowfall in the winter or wildfires in the summer.
I hope you have the best time!
Love Oregon so much you want to move there? You Might Also Like…
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After seeing Toketee Falls, if you want to explore additional stunning waterfalls and natural hot springs such as Umpqua Hot Springs, I recommend reading my blog post:
Oregon Road Trip: The Best Hot Springs, Waterfalls and Photo Spots
If you’re hoping to stay somewhere super unique in Oregon during your visit, check out this blog:
The BEST Lakes in Oregon with Cabins You Must Stay At!
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