McDowell Creek Falls Hiking Guide

The McDowell Creek Falls hike under a lush woodland canopy is a peaceful place to enjoy nature with calming sounds of nearby McDowell Creek. There are several trail options going past multiple falls. Royal Terrace Falls, (not pictured) was just a trickle mid summer, so a fall hike would be a great time for ideal water flowing over the falls.

About the Trail

This wooded trail is fairly easy, but has a moderate rating due to the number of stairs. If you have mobility issues, this might not be a good choice. The stair cases will get your heart racing, but they are only in a couple areas. We hiked McDowell Creek Falls on a 100 degree day and the shade from the trees was so refreshing. There are plenty of streams and a swimming hole at Crystal Pool to enjoy on a hot day. The trail for Crystal Pool isn’t clearly marked and is off the beaten path, but can be found stream side by looking for a rustic rock pathway leading down to the water. (Not the rock steps seen in the photo above). Majestic Falls above is a 40 foot waterfall that can be viewed from the wooden platform as well as along the creek.

Bring a picnic or pack some easy grab and go healthy snacks and spend the day on the trail.

Note: There are no restrooms at the trailhead shown above, but they can be found in other parking lots. There are no parking fees to enjoy this beautiful trail.

For an up close view of Crystal Pool Falls, plant your tripod in the middle of the creek. During the summer when the water level is lower, there are several large rocks you can step on to cross the creek.

Hiking Mask

Masks are required in Oregon if you are unable to hike 6 feet apart. Check out the hiking themed mask below or click HERE and discover other masks I’ve designed.