Nestled in the lush expanse of the Siuslaw National Forest, Drift Creek Falls is a hiker’s dream. This trail seamlessly combines serene old-growth forests, a breathtaking suspension bridge, and a magnificent 75-foot waterfall crashing into basalt-laden rocks below. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and geology enthusiasts alike, Drift Creek Falls offers a journey filled with wonder and discovery.
Quick Overview
📍 Location: Siuslaw National Forest, Oregon
🏙️ Closest Town: Lincoln City (~14 miles away)
🅿️ Parking: Limited to ~20 vehicles; arrive early
🥾 Trail Length: 3.1 miles round-trip (+ optional 1-mile North Loop Trail)
〽️ Elevation Gain: 490 feet
🚻 Facilities: Restroom at the trailhead
🐾 Dog Policy: Dogs allowed on leash
🍂 Seasons: Open year-round
Permit Requirements
- Parking Permit: A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park at the Drift Creek Falls trailhead.
- Where to Purchase:
- Online: Northwest Forest Pass
- Local Vendors: Check at nearby ranger stations or outdoor retailers. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Pro Tip: Display your pass clearly on your dashboard to avoid a citation.
Why Visit Drift Creek Falls?
This trail offers something for everyone:
- Marvel at the 240-foot suspension bridge, built in 1997 with materials flown in by helicopter, providing a thrilling view 100 feet above Drift Creek’s canyon.
- Discover the falls’ volcanic history, where columnar basalt reveals a story 55 million years in the making, linked to the ancient Siletzia formation.
- Immerse yourself in a serene old-growth forest, home to vine maples, huckleberries, ferns, and other native flora.
- Enjoy a family-friendly adventure that’s accessible year-round, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Plan Your Visit
Directions
- Option 1: Highway 101 Entry
From Highway 101 south of Lincoln City, turn left on Drift Creek Road, right on Anderson Creek Road, and finally left onto Forest Service Road 17. Drive 12 miles to reach the trailhead. - Option 2: Highway 18 Entry
At the Highway 101/Highway 18 junction, travel east 4.5 miles on Highway 18. Turn south onto Bear Creek County Road and drive 3.5 miles. Continue 7 miles on Forest Service Road 17 to the trailhead.
Note: Both routes include winding, unpaved sections—drive cautiously.
Pro Tips
- Arrive early to avoid parking challenges, especially on weekends.
- Bring layers for the forest’s cooler temperatures.
- Add the North Loop Trail for extra exploration.
- Capture unforgettable moments from the bridge—but hold onto hats and gear; it can get windy!
Geology Spotlight
Drift Creek Falls reveals its volcanic origins through its columnar basalt, part of the ancient Siletzia formation. This geological treasure, similar to flows in Hawaii, dates back 55 million years, connecting the Pacific Northwest’s history to volcanic activity across the globe.
Local Nonprofits Supporting the Area
The Siuslaw Watershed Council actively works to protect and enhance the ecological health of the Siuslaw National Forest and surrounding watersheds. Through conservation projects, habitat restoration, and community education programs, this organization plays a key role in preserving the beauty and functionality of Drift Creek Falls and its environment.
How You Can Help:
- Donate directly to the Siuslaw Watershed Council to support their conservation efforts.
- Volunteer for trail maintenance or habitat restoration projects hosted by the council.
- Participate in their educational programs to deepen your connection to this remarkable region.
The “T” in RESPECT stands for “Take Action.” Supporting groups like the Siuslaw Watershed Council helps ensure places like Drift Creek Falls continue to inspire and delight for generations.
Recommended Gear for a Comfortable Adventure
- Daypack: Lightweight and durable (Osprey Daylite, premium) or (REI Flash, budget-friendly).
- Waterproof Footwear: Essential for damp conditions (Merrell Moab or Columbia Newton Ridge).
- Trekking Poles: For extra stability (Black Diamond Trail Ergo).
- Rain Gear: Lightweight options (Patagonia Torrentshell or Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite).
Need help choosing gear? Click here for a guide or book a private consultation for personalized recommendations!
Discover More with a Recreation Leader Membership
Looking to deepen your connection to the outdoors? Our Recreation Leader Membership offers exclusive perks that enhance your adventures:
- Access to Public Community Meetups to connect with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
- Monthly Q&A Sessions to get your questions answered by experts.
- Private Consultations for tailored trip planning and insider tips.
- Downloadable Guides for trails, naturalist activities, and more.
- Entry into Naturalist Programs for in-depth exploration of the natural world.
- …and so much more!
Ready to take your outdoor adventures to the next level? Click here to learn more about our membership!
RESPECT Your Recreation
Root your hike in joy, connection, and stewardship with the RESPECT Ethos:
- R: Root Yourself in Recreation—enjoy the trail’s beauty.
- E: Engage Your Senses—listen to the waterfall, feel the mist, and observe the vibrant forest.
- S: Share Your Experience—invite friends or tag your adventure.
- P: Practice Connection to Place—learn the area’s history and geology.
- E: Express Gratitude—pause to appreciate the natural world.
- C: Cultivate Community—smile at fellow hikers or help others.
- T: Take Action—support local conservation or trail maintenance efforts.
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Tags
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