Alsea Falls Recreation Area

If you’re looking for a short hike with quick rewards or a longer hike with options, try Alsea Falls Recreation Site. Located in the coast range along the South Fork of the Alsea River, this BLM-managed area is a great place to explore, and you can make your adventure as long or as short as you like.

The first of two waterfalls is a short distance from the day use parking area. Stay on the west side of the river and hike down less than a quarter of a mile to find Alsea Falls cascading down. Water flow and debris will make the falls look very different throughout the year, though this is generally a great swimming hole during the warmer summer months.

Cross the bridge and turn left to hike along the east side of the river for about a mile and a half to reach the second waterfall, known as Green Peak Falls on Peak Creek. Trails to a private campground branch off along the way, so be mindful of which trail you take. You can extend your adventure by exploring more of the forest on trails that go south from the footbridge. Signage is limited, and these less-frequently maintained trails may have some downed limbs from recent storms.

There are picnic tables and restrooms in the day use parking area, and a 16-site campground is close by if you want to stay and explore the area further. Though the drive there is beautiful, it is also popular with bicyclists, so be sure to drive carefully on the narrow road.