Tumalo Falls Hike
- Physical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
- Technical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
The Tumalo Falls in Oregon is an amazing 97-foot waterfall near Bend, which is a great sight for nature lovers and families with kids. The Tumalo Falls hike walks you past the huge waterfall and follows the stunning Tumalo Creek. This raging river is gorgeous, and this trek will leave you with a new appreciation of its power.
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Route Description for Tumalo Falls Hike
The Tumalo Falls hike begins by following the North Fork Trail. After a quick climb, you will reach the Tumalo Falls Viewpoint, a popular, fenced lookout right beside the Tumalo Falls. The falls are nearly 100 feet tall and are almost perfectly rectangular. A truly picture-perfect waterfall.
Continue hiking along the trail for another mile or so to another viewpoint. As you hike, you will pass through a stunning, dense forest. The trail climbs gradually, though none of the ascents feel very tough – aside from arguably the first one. Be aware that runners and mountain bikers (uphill only) also frequent this trail!
After passing the first view of Double Falls, which honestly rivals the trail’s namesake waterfall, continue hiking for another mile to reach the third viewpoint. Descend the short-but-steep unofficial trail down to the water to get soaked by the waterfall’s spray, and to get a more intimate view.
After enjoying all the views of the Tumalo Falls Hike, return to the parking lot by the same trail.
Hiking Trail Highlights
Tumalo Falls
The Tumalo Falls is a beautiful 30 m (97 ft) waterfall in the Deschutes National Forest. It is one of the most amazing waterfalls near Bend, Oregon. Although this beautiful waterfall is the main reward of this amazing family-friendly hike, it is definitely not the only one you will find on the trail.
The Tumalo Falls hike is one of the best trails for people who love waterfalls. On this trail, you will also pass the Double Falls, and the Middle Tumalo Falls. If you want to extend your hike, you can follow the North Fork Trail to see the Lower and Upper North Fork Tumalo Falls.
Be aware that this trail is not typically snow-free until mid-summer. Hikers in May and June should be prepared for potential snow and ice on the trail. Check with a ranger before hiking for updated trail conditions. There is no water available at the Tumalo Falls Day Use Area, but there is a pit toilet and a picnic area.
Insider Hints for Tumalo Falls Hike
- There is an unofficial trail to the bottom of Tumalo Falls, accessed from the parking area.
- Though the main lookout for Tumalo Falls can be quite busy, the rest of the trail is typically less frequented.
- A Northwest Forest Pass, National Parks Annual Pass, or a $5 day pass (available at the trailhead) is required to park during the summer season from May 1 - September 30.
Getting to the Tumalo Falls Hike Trailhead
From Bend, head west onto Skyliner Road for just under 14.5 km, passing signs for Phill’s Trail and turn left onto Tumalo Falls Road. Follow this dirt road until it ends, where you will find a small dirt parking lot.
Route Information
Tumalo Falls Hike Elevation Graph
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