Shellburg Falls, Waterfall in Marion County, Oregon
Shellburg Falls is a waterfall that drops roughly 100 feet (30 meters) down a basalt rock face within Santiam State Forest. The water creates a natural curtain effect, with the surrounding forest close enough to frame the falls from multiple viewpoints.
The falls formed through volcanic activity that shaped the Santiam region millions of years ago, creating the basalt rock face that guides water flow today. This geological foundation has remained largely unchanged since those ancient times.
The falls attract visitors who come to experience the raw power of falling water in a forest setting, with the sound and mist creating a memorable moment in nature. People linger at the base to watch the water's movement and photograph the scene.
Reach the falls via a round trip hike of about 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometers) starting from the parking area. The path crosses private farmland initially before entering the state forest, so stay on marked trails throughout the walk.
A cavern behind the water allows hikers to walk beneath an overhanging rock without getting wet. This hidden passage lets visitors view the falls from an unusual angle while staying sheltered by the stone.
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