Nestled in the lower elevation of Oregon's Cascade Mountains lies a temperate rain forest. It's here that the Trail of Ten Falls/Canyon Trail (770k) (Acrobat required to view map) can be found. The Canyon Trail and the falls descend to a forest floor covered with ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. You will also find stands of Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar. While the park is visited by thousands every year, it's large enough for you to find quiet places to sit and watch for birds (download a bird list as a text file.)

The Canyon Trail is a nationally-recognized trail system that leads hikers along the banks of the north and south forks of Silver Creek. It takes you to 10 majestic waterfalls, ranging from the grand South Falls (177 feet), to the delicate Drake Falls (27 feet). Four of these falls have an amphitheater-like surrounding where you can walk behind the falls and feel the misty, crisp spray.

Please stay on marked trails and within designated day-use areas at all times. Respect any posted trail closure notices.

At Silver Falls, you will find unique group camping areas like the Old and New Ranch buildings, Silver Creek Youth Camp, North Falls trailer and tent areas, RV, cabin and tent camping in the overnight campground. Additional cabin rentals and complete group accommodations can be found at the Silver Falls Conference Center (rates listed below are for the campground cabins, not the conference center cabins). Where to Stay at Silver Falls State Park (3.8M pdf)

Guided daytime horse trail rides for people of all abilities are available from Memorial Day to Labor Day for $27 per person (covers a 1-hour ride and horse rental). For more information or to make special arrangements, call (503) 873-3890.

Special rules: Silver Falls State Park welcomes visitors and their pets. Please keep in mind these rules:

Control your pet: Keep your pet on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Your pet must be able to respond to your commands, and you must be physically capable of restraining your pet. This rules protects you, other visitors, and park wildlife (Silver Falls is a designated state wildlife refuge). Refer to the Silver Falls State Park Trail Guide for information on pet restrictions on trails .

Be a good neighbor: Bag and remove all pet wastes. For your convenience, Mutt Mitt dispensers are located throughout the park. Make sure your pet is accompanied at all times, whether in the campground or picnic areas.

Going for a walk: The park has over 25 miles of trails for hiking (14 miles of horse trails). Because the canyon trail is narrow and bordered by sharp drop-offs in spots, bicycles, skate boards, in-line skates, and pets are not allowed on the canyon trail. If you have any questions about which trails will accommodate pets, check with park staff.