Smith River Falls

The most memorable part of our trip to Smith River Falls was actually finding it.

We had decided to drive from the Kentucky Falls trailhead to Smith River Falls, and I made the mistake of downloading directions from Google Maps. Our instructions were to make seven turns on various numbered BLM roads. However, after our second turn, we could not find the road numbers we were looking for. So we started driving towards Reedsport to access the internet and get better directions. And on the way, completely convinced we were on the wrong road, we spotted the sign for Smith River Falls Campground. What?! Thank you, Jesus.

The waterfall itself is not in the campground. We parked in the day use area of the campground, however, so that we could use the restroom. Then we walked the short distance up the road to a trail leading down to the river above the falls. A little farther still is a set of stairs that leads to the waterfall itself.

My husband standing on the trail to the river. The stairs are found where the cars are parked on the side of the road.

The waterfall consists of multiple small drops and is a mixture of natural falls and a fish ladder. It’s a very popular swimming hole, but that’s really the only reason to go visit this one. As a waterfall, it’s nothing special.

A few of the drops making up Smith River Falls

SUMMARY:

My rating: Low Priority (1 star) (Waterfall – 1 star, Trail – n/a, Experience – 2 stars)

Distance from Beaverton: 3.75 hours southwest

Nearest town: Reedsport

Nearest city: Eugene

County: Douglas County

Length of round-trip hike: 0

Best season to visit: Summer (for the swimming)

Things to know: The river has eroded the stone in very interesting patterns. I imagine it would be quite easy to twist an ankle or find yourself suddenly in a deep spot.

A dry area of the riverbed. The entire area was pockmarked similarly.

Consider combining this trip with: Kentucky Falls, Green Acres Falls, or Siuslaw Falls.

Toilet / Amenities: Toilet in the campground

How to get there:

• From Kentucky Falls, head back on Forest Service Road 919.
• In 2.8 miles, turn left onto Forest Service Road 23.
• In 1.6 miles, turn right at a Y-shaped junction. If I remember correctly, this road is marked as 20-9-10, but I could be wrong!
• When this road ends, turn right. If I remember correctly, you are now on Smith River Road, regardless of what any road signs might say. Since I was “lost” at the time, however, I can’t give you mileage or more precise directions. If you ever have any doubts, just head towards Reedsport.
• The campground is found on your left, with the waterfall also on your left a short distance farther.
• OR, from Reedsport, drive north on Hwy 101 to Smith River Road.
• Turn right and find the recreation area on your right in 26.5 miles.

Helpful Websites:

• http://oregondiscovery.com/smith-river-falls
• https://www.oregonwaterfalls.net/smithrvr.htm
• https://www.blm.gov/visit/smith-river-falls