There’s something particularly magical about exploring the lush, mossy forests of the Northwest with the sound of rushing water around the bend. At Silver Falls State Park, you’ll encounter this atmosphere at every turn. It’s most known for the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular loop that runs about 7.2 miles and allows visitors to see ten stunning waterfalls, some of which you can walk behind. The waterfalls vary in height, with the tallest being South Falls, which drops over 177 feet.
Silver Falls State Park is often called the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and for good reason. This standout scenic treasure firmly puts Oregon on the national and international stage. Its beauty, boundless recreational opportunities, and historic presence keep it there. The newest route is the North Rim Trail, which officially opened last summer. It’s one of the best ways to take in the impressive North Falls.
After a full day of hiking at Silver Falls State Park, you’ll be ready to relax and taste some Oregon-grown wine! Our award-winning winery and Inn is among the best places to stay in the Willamette Valley. With more than 475 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, the welcoming hospitality, concierge service, and luxurious accommodations come together for a perfect getaway destination. Book your lodging today!
Your Guide to Hiking at Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park is one of those unforgettable places in the Northwest, especially for outdoor lovers and hiking enthusiasts. It offers some of the most spectacular scenery, with emerald greens, rushing waterfalls, and crisp spray from the cascades. It’s not every day that you’ll be able to walk behind a waterfall!
Here’s what to expect on a visit to Silver Falls State Park:
- Trail of Ten Falls: The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon and descends to a winding creek on the forest floor. This 7.2-mile loop is considered a moderate hike, with an overall elevation change of 800 feet. Several connecting trails with separate access points make shorter routes.
- Backcountry Hiking: The park offers over 35 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding. These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, making them accessible for most fitness levels. The scenery includes dense ancient forests, creeks, and, of course, the waterfalls themselves.
- Picnicking and Recreation Areas: The park has numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. This makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature. As a guest at our Willamette Valley bed and breakfast, we could pack a picnic for you. Look into all of our special packages here.
More Hikes Near McMinnville;
If you’d prefer to stay closer to downtown McMinnville and our Willamette Valley bed and breakfast, there are a handful of beautiful hikes to explore.
- Rotary Nature Preserve at Tice Park: Follow the forested boardwalk trail along the banks of Baker Creek, with views of two ponds and wetland wildlife. There are benches along the path, and the mile-long loop is perfect for a romantic afternoon or early evening walk.
- Our Lady of Guadalupe Trappist Abbey: This beautiful and peaceful oasis is located in the opposite direction, north of McMinnville and just a couple of miles west of the fun and artsy town of Lafayette. The Trappist Abbey is open to visitors and has several hiking trails for guests to explore. Maps of the hiking trails and information about the lives of the monks who live at the abbey are available at the visitor center.
- Galen McBee Airport Park: For a leisurely stroll, with Trillium beds in the spring, a flowing creek year-round, forested one-mile and ½ mile soft-trail loops with bridge crossings, and several micro-environments that are worth exploring, this local park is a hidden gem.
Wine Tasting in the Willamette Valley at our B&B
After you’ve checked into your comfortable and spacious suite, you may not feel like leaving the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of our Inn, but if you do, you’ll find more than 100 wineries and vineyards within 20 minutes of Youngberg Hill Inn & Winery. While Silver Falls State Park is about an hour’s drive from our Willamette Valley bed and breakfast, the scenic drive and payoff of the beauty of these waterfalls is more than worth it.
McMinnville is a lovely small town in the heart of Oregon’s Wine Country. Its historic downtown area features charming boutiques, cozy coffeehouses, inviting wine tasting rooms, and delightful craft breweries. Additionally, the town boasts award-winning restaurants that will impress and leave a lasting impression. With so many beautiful experiences to enjoy, we guarantee you’ll have an unforgettable time.
Back at our bed and breakfast in the Willamette Valley, you’ll be surrounded by lush vineyards and steps away from our luxurious tasting room. You’ll enjoy sipping pinot while taking in the panoramic view from our hilltop estate. All guest rooms have high-end custom furnishings, comfortable beds, elegant en suites, and everything you need to relax and refresh in wine country, especially after a beautiful waterfall hike at Silver Falls State Park. Book your lodging today!
