Day Trips from Salem
← All Salem day tripsDay Trips from Salem: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Salem, OR. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Salem
Pegleg Falls
Oregon, USA
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Salem, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Silver Falls State Park
USA
Just 33 min from Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 10,273 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
South Falls Day Use Area
OR 97381, USA
Just 38 min from Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 541 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fairy Falls
Corbett, OR 97019
Just 1 hr 21 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 363 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool)
McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413
Just 1 hr 52 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 1,539 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
USA
Just 1 hr 6 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 13,657 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Moulton Falls Regional Park
Yacolt, WA 98675
Just 1 hr 38 min from Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 1,575 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mosier Creek Falls
Mosier, OR 97040
Just 1 hr 56 min from Salem, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Multnomah Falls Recreation Area
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 1 hr 29 min from Salem, rated 4.7 stars by 1,627 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dougan Falls
Washougal, WA 98671
Just 1 hr 41 min from Salem, rated 4.7 stars by 220 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dougan Falls
Washington 98671, USA
Just 1 hr 41 min from Salem, rated 4.6 stars by 136 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Falls City Falls
, 702 Parry Rd
Just 36 min from Salem, rated 4.6 stars by 196 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Salem
What are the best waterfalls near Salem, OR?
The best waterfalls near Salem range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Salem?
Some waterfalls near Salem have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Salem?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Salem are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Salem?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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