A few miles east of Salem, miles of winding roads thread their way through the quiet, unassuming farm country concealing the crown jewel of Oregon state parks. A casual tourist could never just bump into it on the way from one place to another. To get there, you have to know it’s there and mean it. But what a reward for those who do!
The Trail of Ten Falls is as stunning a hiking reward as we’ve ever received. We took nearly every spur to check out each fall, logging ten miles in all, so we averaged one epic waterfall per mile.
Many of these towering falls allow you walk behind them. Standing behind the misty, thundering curtain of water, you can’t help but feel like a kid in a fairytale. Once you emerge, the surrounding woods don’t break the spell. Nourished by the misty falls and the blessing of seclusion, the lush growth of a temperate rain forest adorns the surrounding hills and cliffs. Ferns, moss, trees all joined by the vibrant flashes of wildflowers in bloom.
This make our shortlist of most epic hikes in Oregon. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to seek out this reward for yourself! If not, check out the video below.
South Falls 
Majestic South falls. Can you see the trail behind…? 
Inside the Falls 
Fairy-like Corydalis blooms 
Wild blackberry flower. 
Misty behind-falls selfie.