Watson Falls Hike

Oregon is a state known for it's spectacular waterfalls, and the North Umpqua River is a popular area for waterfall seekers. Watson Falls is the second highest waterfall in the state at 290 feet, and it is accessible via a moderate and scenic trail that is great for hikers of all abilities. The parking area has restrooms and some picnic tables near Watson Creek and plenty of room to park. The trail leaves from the south end of the parking lot and climbs up to cross NF-37 and continue climbing through old-growth forest. Watson Falls are briefly visible from the parking lot, but the first nice view comes about a third of a mile up the trail, where there is a large flat rock and a spectacular mossy cascade below. Just past this point a bridge crosses the creek and the trail winds up to a bench with a nice view of the falls. Continuing straight past the bench is a minor trail to a misty viewpoint at the bottom of the falls. Turning right at the bench, the main trail goes up one switchback to a platform overlook about halfway up the falls. From here the view of the falls is unimpeded as it plummets down the sheer rock wall covered in ferns and moss. Heading back from the top, the trail continues straight down the west side of Watson Creek down to NF-37, where a short walk east arrives back at the road crossing down to the parking area.