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…

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