The Story of Silver Falls State Park--Part 6

MODERN-DAY SILVER

FALLS STATE PARK

Nowadays it costs $5.00 for a day pass to see South Falls, unlike a century ago, when all you needed was a dime. With an Oregon State Parks’ annual pass of $30, or a biannual pass of $50, you do not need to pay the entry fee every time you go and are good at all state parks. Hiking is one of the major reasons why visitors come to Silver Falls State Park. But this park has much more to offer visitors.

With over 25 miles of trails for hiking, there are plenty of trails to hike. The change of seasons also makes it worth it to hike each trail at different times of the year. Pets are allowed in Silver Falls State Park, but only the Rim Trail and Upper North Falls Trail are pet friendly. These two trails include a viewpoint of North Falls and a short hike to the pool below Upper North Falls.

A view from the North Falls Viewpoint

This park boasts group camping areas such as the Old and New Ranch, Silver Falls Youth Camp, and the North Falls Trailer and Tent Camping Areas. A reservable Group Meeting Hall offers a unique spot for a business meeting.

Four reservable picnic shelters come in handy during the springtime, when the weather can change from sunny to rainy within an hour.

A Horse Camp complete with corrals is open from April 1 to October 31. Ten 2-room rustic cabins and 4 1-room rustic cabins are also available. These cabins are ADA accessible.

There is a four-mile paved trail for biking. Many of the trails are used for horseback riding. Various other recreational activities include wildlife and bird watching, going on interpretive hikes, watching interpretive shows at the amphitheater, fishing, and swimming.

Events at Silver Falls State Park include the Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival that showcases native plants wildflowers, and birds that can be found in the park. The Silver Falls Volunteer Day allows people to volunteer for one day to help with plant surveying, trail maintenance, and construction projects around the park.

During Oregon State Parks Day, Silver Falls State Park hosts a 5K Challenge Foot Race over the creek and through the woods. This special day also allows free one-night camping and free day-use access. Other events include the Silver Falls History Days and the Silver Falls State Party.

The final part of the series on Silver Falls State Park is here: http://beavercountryramblings.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-story-of-silver-falls-state-park_616.html