Upper Kentucky Falls

Douglas County, Oregon

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: 289 ft (88 m)
Location: Douglas County, Oregon
Access status: Forest trail to a viewpoint and the base documented
The walk: About 0.5 mile to the viewpoint; about a mile to the base
Ground & access: Level at first, then a steeper descent with sections blasted into an unguarded cliff. Keep children close.

Oregon Hikers Field Guide: Kentucky Falls Hike

Upper Kentucky Falls drops 88 to 100 feet in two steps on Kentucky Creek. From the trailhead, cross the road and follow the Kentucky Falls Trail downhill to a viewpoint over the upper drops. The trail then switchbacks down past the falls; at the fourth switchback you can scramble over rocks and downed trees to the base. Return the same way.

Plan your visit

Kentucky Falls Trailhead to the Upper Kentucky Falls viewpoint and base

Oregon Hikers gives 0.5 mile to a viewpoint over the upper drops. The Northwest Waterfall Survey places the base about a mile from the trailhead. Both figures are one way.

Level at first, then a steeper descent with sections blasted into an unguarded cliff. Keep children close.

Where to start

Kentucky Falls Trailhead, reached by long paved and gravel forest roads from Highway 126 near Mapleton or from Reedsport via Road 48 and Road 23. Restrooms and picnic tables at the trailhead.

Timing & water

Oregon Hikers lists the trail as open all year.

Before you go

Oregon Hikers lists no fees at the trailhead.

Visitor information

Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore Oregon

Waterfall location

Douglas County, Oregon.

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