Up for an adventure? This little-known section of the Deschutes River has exciting rapids, beautiful views, and a hidden waterfall in Oregon. Dillon Falls is a hidden gem nestled along the route to Benham Falls. There is a 6.8-mile out-and-back trail that connects the two waterfalls with scenic views, rapidly flowing water, and that amazing rich piney outdoor smell we love in the Deschutes National forest.
This beautiful forest hike is an easy trail perfect for a leisurely stroll, walking your dog, or a day out exploring with the family.
Kevin Ballard/Google Local
The trail to Dillon Falls is a popular trail for mountain biking and trail running as well. Some sections are even off-leash dog areas so you can let your dogs enjoy an afternoon of exploring.
Ellie Salaba/AllTrails
Dillon Falls itself is a 15-foot drop followed by class-5 rapids. But watch out for a stubborn tree precariously resting in the middle of the river!
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons The rapids taper off to a class 3 then 2 until you reach Lava Island Falls downstream.
Many outdoor explorers come looking for Dillon Falls, but we feel a good hearty section of rapids is just as thrilling.
Mark Evans/AllTrails
If you love a good kayaking adventure beware the bend!
Tim Campbell/Google Local If you aren’t aware of Dillon Falls up ahead it might surprise you. The area on the Deschutes River before the falls is calm and wide open. To make things even more interesting the natural flow of sound is limited through that area due to the ancient lava flows the river cuts through.
A scenic overlook gives you the opportunity to pause and enjoy the melodic sound of the rapids from above.
Lisa Anderson/AllTrails
While we all love a rushing river and hidden waterfall, the rest of the views in the Deschutes National Forest offer stunning hidden gems everywhere you look.
Sarah Durkin/AllTrails
In our opinion, there is nothing better in life than exploring a new outdoor space, and the good ole Beaver State offers many amazing trails, hikes, and hidden treasures like this hidden waterfall in Oregon. What is your favorite little-known trail or hidden waterfall? Please share with a comment so we can find a new adventure or two.
Kevin Ballard/Google Local
Ellie Salaba/AllTrails
U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The rapids taper off to a class 3 then 2 until you reach Lava Island Falls downstream.
Mark Evans/AllTrails
Tim Campbell/Google Local
If you aren’t aware of Dillon Falls up ahead it might surprise you. The area on the Deschutes River before the falls is calm and wide open. To make things even more interesting the natural flow of sound is limited through that area due to the ancient lava flows the river cuts through.
Lisa Anderson/AllTrails
Sarah Durkin/AllTrails
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Address: Dillon Falls, Bend Oregon, USA
