kids encyclopedia robot

List of waterfalls in Oregon facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

There are at least 238 waterfalls in the U.S. state of Oregon. Oregon is a state famous for its stunning natural beauty, and its many waterfalls are a big part of that! From towering cascades to gentle trickles, you can find all sorts of waterfalls here.

What is a Waterfall?

A waterfall is a place where water flows over a steep drop or a series of drops in a river or stream. Waterfalls are formed when a river flows over different types of rock. Softer rocks wear away faster, leaving harder rocks standing tall. This creates the sudden drop that makes a waterfall.

Why Does Oregon Have So Many Waterfalls?

Oregon has so many amazing waterfalls for a few key reasons:

  • Lots of Rain: Oregon gets a lot of rain, especially in the western part of the state. This means there's plenty of water to feed all the rivers and streams.
  • Volcanic History: Long ago, volcanoes shaped much of Oregon's landscape. The hard volcanic rock layers, combined with softer soils, create perfect conditions for waterfalls to form as water carves its way through.
  • The Columbia River Gorge: This famous gorge is a deep canyon carved by the Columbia River. It's home to a huge number of waterfalls because the river cuts through many layers of volcanic rock, creating steep cliffs and dramatic drops.

Famous Waterfalls to Explore

Oregon is home to some truly spectacular waterfalls. Here are a few you might want to learn about:

Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls

The Columbia Gorge is a hotspot for waterfalls! Many of Oregon's most famous falls are found here.

  • Multnomah Falls: This is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and one of the most visited natural sites in the Pacific Northwest. It drops in two main sections, making it very impressive to see. You can even walk up to a bridge for a closer look!
  • Latourell Falls: Known for its unique basalt columns (rock formations that look like giant pillars), Latourell Falls is beautiful with bright green moss covering the rocks.
  • Bridal Veil Falls: This waterfall has a lovely, delicate appearance, like a bride's veil. It's a popular spot for hikers and photographers.
  • Horsetail Falls: Named because it looks like a horse's tail, this waterfall is right next to the historic highway, making it easy to see.
  • Wahkeena Falls: Near Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena is a beautiful, tiered waterfall that tumbles down a series of rocky steps.
  • Metlako Falls: Found on Eagle Creek, Metlako Falls is unique because it plunges into a deep, punchbowl-like canyon.
  • Oneonta Falls: This waterfall is hidden deep within a narrow, mossy gorge, requiring a bit of an adventure to reach!
  • Wahclella Falls: A powerful, two-tiered waterfall that you can reach by a short, scenic hike.
  • Twister Falls: Also on Eagle Creek, this waterfall gets its name from the way the water twists and turns as it falls.

Other Notable Oregon Waterfalls

Beyond the Columbia Gorge, Oregon has many other incredible waterfalls.

  • Salt Creek Falls: Located near Willamette Pass, this is Oregon's second-highest single-drop waterfall. It's especially beautiful in winter when surrounded by snow.
  • Toketee Falls: On the North Umpqua River, Toketee Falls is famous for its unique basalt columns that frame the powerful, two-tiered cascade. It's a truly special sight.
  • Tumalo Falls: West of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, Tumalo Falls is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying nature. It's a tall, powerful waterfall.
  • Ramona Falls: West of Mount Hood, this waterfall is known for its delicate, lacy appearance as the water flows over moss-covered basalt.
  • Shellburg Falls: In the Santiam State Forest, Shellburg Falls is unique because you can actually walk behind the curtain of water!
  • Barr Creek Falls: In southern Oregon, this waterfall is part of the beautiful Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint.
  • Mill Creek Falls: Also at Prospect State Scenic Viewpoint, Mill Creek Falls is another impressive cascade in southern Oregon.
  • Clearwater Falls: In Douglas County, this waterfall is special because its water comes from an underground spring, making it very clear and cold.
  • Diamond Creek Falls: This waterfall is found in a beautiful forested area, offering a peaceful natural experience.
  • Ki-a-Kuts Falls: On the Tualatin River, this waterfall is a hidden gem, named after a local Native American leader.
  • Watson Falls: In the North Umpqua drainage in Douglas County, Watson Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in southern Oregon.
  • Yakso Falls: On the Little River, a tributary of the North Umpqua, Yakso Falls is another beautiful waterfall in the region.
  • Tamanawas Falls: Near Mt. Hood, Tamanawas Falls is a wide, powerful waterfall that is a popular hiking destination.

Images for kids

See also

  • Lists of Oregon-related topics
kids search engine
All content from Kiddle encyclopedia articles (including the article images and facts) can be freely used under Attribution-ShareAlike license, unless stated otherwise. Cite this article:
List of waterfalls in Oregon Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.