Drift Creek Falls, Waterfall in Siuslaw National Forest, Lincoln County, Oregon
Drift Creek Falls is a waterfall in the Siuslaw National Forest in Lincoln County, Oregon, reached by a round trip trail of about 3 miles (5 km) through dense, moss-covered coastal forest. A suspension bridge roughly 100 feet (30 m) above the creek and about 240 feet (73 m) long crosses the canyon, offering a direct view of the falls dropping about 66 feet (20 m) into a rocky pool below.
The area around the falls is part of the Siuslaw National Forest, managed as a federal forest since the early 20th century. The suspension bridge was completed in 1997 after the original project engineer died during construction, and in 2010 a section of rock face broke away from the cliff near the falls, exposing columns of basalt.
The suspension bridge over the falls is dedicated to Scott Paul, the engineer who died during its construction in 1997. Many visitors only notice the dedication plaque when they stop midway across the bridge, which gives the crossing a meaning that goes beyond the view.
The trailhead parking lot is small and fills up quickly on weekends, so arriving early in the morning is the best way to secure a spot. A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent federal pass is required to park, and dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they are kept on a leash.
After 2010, a large section of the cliff face broke away near the falls, uncovering columns of basalt rock that are now clearly visible from the bridge. Visitors who have seen older photos of the site will notice that the shape of the rock wall looks noticeably different today.
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