Umpqua Waterfalls

People are drawn to waterfalls as places of wonder, relaxation and inspiration. Thundering water, in their many forms, provide some of the earth’s most beautiful landscape features. Be adventurous and discover the rich tapestry of Oregon Cascade scenic beauty.

North Umpqua Trail

The North Umpqua trail offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, photography, fishing, and sightseeing. Become one with nature at some of the most beautiful settings found in the Pacific Northwest.

Construction of the North Umpqua Trail started in 1978. Through the efforts of the Umpqua National Forest, Roseburg District Bureau of Land Management, Douglas County Park Department, and many dedicated volunteers.

Divided into eleven (11) segments from over three (3) miles to just under sixteen (16) miles in length. The trail leads high into the Cascade Mountains near Lake Maidu, and intersects with the Pacific Crest Scenic Trail. High elevations of the trail encounter snow during winter months, while the lower segments are open year round. The trail ranges from moderate to easy for much of its length; however there are short sections that offer more challenging terrain. Several trails lead to waterfalls, swimming holes, fishing, and campsites. Need a hot soak along your journey? Hot Springs!!!

There is unlimited hiking potential in the area including the Pacific Crest Trail, The North Umpqua Trail, and The Umpqua National Forest covers nearly one million acres located along the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains in southwest Oregon. The Forest encompasses a diverse area of rugged mountains to 9,200 feet in elevation, sparkling rivers and lakes, and deep canyons, producing a wealth of water resources, timber, wildlife, fish habitat, minerals, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Included within the Forest are the North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River, a portion of the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, three wilderness areas, the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area, and the Diamond Lake Recreation Composite, one of the largest developed recreational facilities within the Forest Service.

Wild and Scenic River – The North Umpqua River

Visit one of Oregon’s most beautiful rivers. Renowned for outstanding fishing environments and exhilarating whitewater challenges, the North Umpqua River offers an ideal setting for many recreational pursuits.

The North Umpqua provided the right challenge for all types of rafters and kayakers, from the placid Class 1 waters to roaring Class IV rapids. The best months to raft are May, June and early July, depending on the weather. Later in the summer as water flows decrease, floaters test their rock-maneuvering skills as the rapids become more technical.

The North Umpqua River flows from east to west. In the downloadable brochure below, you can look at a map of the five segments and acquaint yourself with the rapids, boating guidelines, fishing and other recreational opportunities.

The Rogue – Umpqua Scenic Byway

Discover the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, a stunning 172-mile drive along the North Umpqua and Upper Rogue Wild and scenic Rivers to their headwaters in the heart of the Southern Cascades.

The drive owes its dramatic scenery and incredible landscapes to a fiery volcanic past. From the rolling hills to 9,000 foot peaks, from Whitewater Rivers to cascade lakes, this travel way abounds with natural beauty.

Natural Hot-Springs

Hot spring enthusiasts beware, the Umpqua Hot Springs is a great place for a soak among the wooded wilds that are part of Oregon’s fame. Nestled on a cliff top perch, Umpqua Hot Springs’ view of the North Umpqua River below is one of Oregon hot springs’ most memorable. It certainly adds to the soothing pleasure of soaking in this spring.

There are two to three oval pools for soaking above and behind the main, covered pool. The larger pool is tub-like due to the minerals from the spring creating a travertine mound over the centuries that caps the cliff side. The main pool exists sunken into this travertine stone with the view opening like an amphitheater to soakers. The upper, smaller pool is 4 by 5 feet and 112 degrees F; the lower, larger pool is 5 by 8 feet and 110 degrees F. Both pools are 2-3 feet deep and floored with coarse sand. Use caution when walking around the pools in this area as the wet travertine can be incredibly slippery. Expect nudity.