Hiking to Watson Falls in Southern Oregon

Watson in a Name? A lot, Sherlock!

Hike to Watson Falls in Southern Oregon

07.12.2023
Points Beyond
Hikes, Overnight Escapes
Watson Falls in Southern Oregon along the Highway of Waterfalls

The #1 rule of the unofficial waterfall club? You cannot take a road trip through Southern Oregon and skip the Highway of Waterfalls. This stretch of Highway 138 east of Roseburg along the Umpqua River is a watery marvel that’s lovely year-round.

Two people at the overlook and watching Watson Falls in Southern Oregon

A hiker crosses a bride enroute to Watson Falls in Southern Oregon

Up close picture of Watson Falls in Southern Oregon

That includes Southwest Oregon’s highest waterfall, Watson Falls. Go early in the morning for a good chance of having this 293-foot oasis all to yourself, at least for a little bit.

The hike to reach it is a forested and relatively easy 1-mile loop lush with ferns. Hiking under a canopy of Douglas fir and western hemlocks, you’re teased along the way with gorgeous glistening cascades.

Cross a wooden bridge with a whoa! vantage of Watson. Continue up a spur trail to a viewpoint closer to the misty action.

High up photo of Watson Falls in Southern Oregon along the Highway of Waterfalls

More waterfalls?! Of course! This is the Highway of Waterfalls…

Discover the Distinct Regions of Southern Oregon

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View

  2. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts head to a nearby spot, Trojan Point, for a little more personal space in their panoramic viewings.

    View
  3. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View

  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View