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Snowshoe or XC Ski to Tumalo Falls

Bend, Oregon

3.5/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

5 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Austin Jackson

In the summer, Tumalo Falls is an incredibly popular destination and becomes quite packed. Snowshoe there in the winter and enjoy secluded views of one of Bend's most photogenic waterfalls.

If you are looking to Hike to Tumalo Falls in any season other than winter, click here!

In the summer, Tumalo Falls can be a great destination to drive up and hang out due to the fact that you can park near the base of the falls. Because of this, it can get quite crowded! However, in the winter, this falls is much more secluded, and in my opinion, much more photogenic!

Your snowshoe will start at the gate at the start of Tumalo Falls Road. You will park on the side of the gate, and gear up to walk in to the falls. Once you are ready, walk around the gate and walk down the road. This is a very easy trail to follow, as the snow on the road is usually less than the amount of snow on the side. Also, if you are doing this later in the season, look for other snowshoe or cross country ski tracks to follow.

The road will continue straight most of the way with a few small turns. This is a very good choice for a first snowshoeing trip due to it's flat and short trail! Keep walking on the road and you will eventually see the falls on your right! You will cross a bridge over a river, and at this point you will see the falls. Keep walking around and up the hill, and then take a right when you see a faint trail and a large wooden sign. You will then see the viewpoint to the falls.

If you're feeling adventurous, scramble down towards the water. You can walk along the bank towards the falls if you're feeling up to it! Don't forget to refuel and drink water while you are observing the beauty of the falls. 

When you're done, head back the way you came. Enjoy the walk back and be sure to always leave no trace! 

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Features

Photography
Skiing
Snowshoeing
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Forest
Waterfall

Reviews

You are not able to park at the actual trail head, so you’ll have to hike in from where they close it off. Aside from that, the falls look absolutely beautiful in the winter and well worth the trek in!

We went mid-March in the hopes of using our snowshoes before the season ended. It was a little warm and the snow had compacted enough for it to be a nice hike without the snowshoes. The most notable element of our hike wasn't the waterfall. Unfortunately, it was the tremendous amount of dog crap along the trail. I must have missed the sign that said "If your dog has to crap every 25' and is prone to bouts of diarrhea then bring them here and don't worry about picking up after them!" Don't get me wrong, I love the little furry guys, but it would sure be nice if their owners were a little more considerate of others and picked up after them. If you like waterfalls, the sweet smell of a fresh steaming pile of dog crap and the challenge of a poop riddled obstacle course then this is the trail for you!! Enjoy!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Creek Loop

Tumalo Falls Loop

Tumalo Falls and Double Falls

Tumalo Mountain Trail

Tumalo Mountain Trail