Waterfalls, Lakes, Rivers and Creeks

Oakridge Rivers, Lakes & Waterfalls

At the confluence of five rivers and surrounded by lakes, Oakridge / Westfir is brimming with natural wonders and water sports. Discover both the thrill and drama of roaring rapids and the serenity of glassy lakes and lazy floats.

Rivers & Creeks

The Willamette River courses through the Oakridge / Westfir community with two branches – the Middle Fork and the North Fork of the Middle Fork. The Middle Fork’s Class II rapids attract kayakers, inner-tubers and river rafters. Access the Middle Fork easily at Greenwaters Park in Oakridge.

Nearby, Salmon Creek – a Middle Fork tributary – offers excellent trout fishing. Each April the upstream Willamette Fish Hatchery stocks the creek with hatchery rainbow trout. Follow Salt Creek, another Middle Fork tributary, to the McCredie Hot Springs pools- but be careful! These inviting pools can be very hot.

Westfir’s historic Office Covered Bridge spans the beautiful North Fork of the Willamette River which has been designated as a Wild and Scenic River. While you float this waterway, watch for wildlife and birds along the banks. Anglers too, relish these pristine waters for catch and release fly-fishing.

Lakes & Reservoirs

Hills Creek Reservoir is a playground of motorized water sports. Kick up spray as you zip across its 2,735 acres (1106 ha).

Waldo Lake, the second largest lake in Oregon, is also one of the purest lakes in the world! See to the depths of over 100 feet (30 m). Glide out on non-motorized craft such as sailboats, canoes and kayaks.

Waterfalls

Oakridge’s most famous waterfall is Salt Creek Falls – a tremendous beauty that plunges 286 feet (87 m) into a canyon pool. As the second tallest waterfall in Oregon (after Multnomah Falls), Salt Creek Falls can be marveled at from a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform only a few hundred yards from parking. In winter, strap on snowshoes for a look at its icy majesty.

From the Salt Creek Falls Observation Site, a moderate one-mile hike reveals a second waterfall, Diamond Creek Falls, that fans out in a glittery veil. Mountain bikers and hikers are also treated to many other waterfalls along Oakridge’s numerous trails.