The name of this state park is a little misleading - there is no waterfall in the park named Silver Falls! Instead, the north and south forks of Silver Creek cascade into a canyon network surrounded by dense temperate rain forest. The Trail of 10 Falls is a spectacular hike that passes by (and behind, in more than one instance) waterfalls ranging in height from 27ft to 178ft. A note to the adventurer - the seven mile trail will be wet and slippery in places on the best of days. On a rainy day it can be a challenge.

South Falls is the most accessible and most frequently mislabeled"Silver Falls." The spectacular freefall drop of 177 feet into a large pool and the large amphitheater and trail behind the fall make it a particular favorite. It's an easy hike on paved trails down to the creek and around behind the falls. The walk is highly recommended.

Click HERE to view a slideshow of South Falls

North Falls also features a large behind the falls amphitheater and is also reasonably accessible. Similar to South Falls, North Falls is obscured by trees, sheltered in a narrow canyon and lacking the large pool at its base.

Click HERE to view a slideshow of North Falls

Part of the adventure of Silver Falls can be the trip getting there. Traveling from Portland, take the Stafford Rd. exit off I-205 south to Mountain Rd., crossing the Willamette river on the Canby Ferry ($2 toll) and traveling through the beautiful farmland of the Willamette Valley. Here's a map. It makes a nice weekend afternoon outing from Portland, stretching into the evening with dinner in Silverton.