Watson Falls
Watson Falls is the third-tallest waterfall in Oregon with a 293 foot drop into Watson Creek, a tributary of the Clearwater River in Umpqua National Forest.
-
-
Camp at the lovely Susan Creek Campground via Recreation.gov.
-
Lodging is available at the quaint and lovely Steamboat Inn.
-
Amazing local dining is available at the restaurant at Steamboat Inn.
-
Dogs are allowed on leash.
About
Watson Falls are a feature attraction of Southern Oregon's Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway.
The Watson Falls Trailhead provides access to the 0.4-mile Watson Falls Trail. The trail if often wet and slick, so wear appropriate shoes and consider rain gear.
About 750,000 years ago, volcanic eruptions in this area created a molten lava flow that filled this valley hundreds of feet deep.
The thick basaltic rock you see at Watson Falls is evidence of just how massive that lava flow was.
Watson Falls Trail
The Watson Falls Trail climbs 0.4 miles through an understory of Salal, Oregon grape, vine maple, and ferns.
The surrounding forest is lush with Douglas-fir and Hemlock Trees.
It is recommended to wear rain-gear and prepare for wet and slippery conditions.
Food and Drink
The Steamboat Inn is a unique place along the banks of the North Umpqua River, near Toketee Falls.
The Inn's 60-year tradition of personalized hospitality is exceptional and its menu is delicious.
Umpqua National Forest
Umpqua National Forest is on the Western side of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains.
The stunning features of this landscape are a testament to the volcanic events that shaped the area.
The Umpqua National Forest is almost one million acres of Douglas Fir forest, wildflowers, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and volcanoes.
Nearby Attraction: Toketee Falls
Toketee Falls plunges 89 ft. over beautiful basalt columns into Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest.
The waterfall lies at the confluence of the North Umpqua and Clearwater Rivers.
Toketee, is a Chinook First People’s word meaning "pretty" or "graceful".