Hike to Mill Creek & Barr Creek Falls

Mill Creek Falls is a lesser-known gem in Southern Oregon. At 173 ft it is one of the tallest in the area, and Barr Creek Falls, plunging 240 ft, is less than a quarter mile further down the trail. The viewpoints can be accessed year-round though flows often fluctuate and spring/winter may best for greater flows. If conditions are right, the falls will freeze/partially freeze offering great photo opportunities.

Though this is a family and dog-friendly viewing trail, the view points are very exposed in some areas, with steep cliffs that have resulted in deaths from falls, so please be careful taking photos and keep an eye on children/dogs.

There is a spur trail that leads you steeply down to the base of Mill Creek Falls. This allows great access to the Rogue River and the cooling mist from the falls on a hot summer day. Be aware that the Upper Rogue River is cold, quite cold, all year round, and flows fluctuate as well based on weather. In the Winter or Spring, bring a rope as you may need it to descend/ascend the trail down to falls if it is icy/slippery.

After just a few minutes after leaving the trailhead you will find a junction that allows both falls to be accessed on the trail to the right and the Avenue of the Boulders to the left. Avenue of the Boulders is a natural playground for adults and children with a mind-boggling plethora of house-sized boulders and natural rock slides into the Rogue River. This is also a great spot to sunbathe and cool off with a dip into a swim hole. The Rogue River, however, should not be taken lightly, so please don't leave children unsupervised.

Getting there: Mill Creek Falls and Avenue of The Boulders sit just outside of the town of Prospect, OR and south of Prospect State Park. If traveling south on Hwy 62 from Crater Lake, turn east on Mill Creek Road. In 1.5 miles, you will find the marked trailhead and free parking area. There is a map at the trailhead and I recommend reviewing it before heading down to the falls or boulders.

If you are wanting to grab a bite or brew afterward, stop at Beckie's Cafe north in Union Creek or the Rogue River Lodge in Trail, OR to the south.