How to explore southern Oregon’s highway of waterfalls

In past years, when traveling south from Portland to Crater Lake, I’ve found myself inputting the national park into Google Maps and taking the fastest route there. In true weekend warrior form, I was trying to maximize my time in the park, compartmentalizing the nearly five hour drive as merely a hurdle between me and my upcoming adventure.

A few weeks ago, Crater Lake was on my agenda once more. This year, with a slightly longer commute, I had my eyes on an epic waterfall along the way: Toketee Falls. This meant traveling down Interstate 5 to Roseburg, before heading east on Oregon 138. What I soon learned was that this stretch of roadway was also known as the “highway of waterfalls.” And Toketee Falls is just one of more than a dozen that can be accessed via this highway. That’s not to mention the many basalt cliff lined hikes and a famous hot spring that can be found in this area as well.

While I only scratched the surface in exploring all that Oregon 138 has to offer, here are four incredible waterfalls, all accessible via a short hike or walk from the parking lot of each. You’ll soon understand why this is my new route of choice when visiting Crater Lake or the surrounding region.

Toketee Falls

This 0.8-mile roundtrip hike is short, yet steep with several sets of stairs. Walk along the North Umpqua River before arriving at a viewing platform. Perched from this overlook you’ll peer down to a two-tier waterfall. The first drop is 40 feet, followed by a second 80-foot drop into a blue pool of water. The basalt cliffs surrounding the waterfall make for unforgettable views. Toketee is Chinook for pretty or graceful. It surely lives up to the name.

Watson Falls

A 0.8-mile roundtrip hike through old growth Douglas Fir will allow you to walk directly under Watson Falls. The stunning 293-foot drop over basalt cliffs is the tallest waterfall in southern Oregon and the third tallest waterfall in the state.

Whitehorse Falls

Whitehorse Falls is the most easily accessed hikes of the group. A large parking area near picnic tables is just a few steps from a flat board walk area leading to a viewpoint of the falls. A much smaller fall than the previous two, its cascading waters collect into a pool. A short path below the viewing deck allows you to dip your toes into the water. Bonus: Five campsites are available here with picnic tables and fire pits.

Clearwater Falls

The cascading waters flowing over mossy rocks and trees make Clearwater Falls a distinct and awe-inspiring stop along Oregon 138. An easy, flat 0.2-mile walking path from the parking lot makes this waterfall easily accessible to those not wanting to hike. Nine campsites with fire pits, four picnic tables and three vault toilets are also available here, making for a great option to rest on a roadtrip.

— Vickie Connor is a visual journalist who covers features, travel and outdoor adventures and co-hosts The Oregonian’s Peak Northwest podcast. Reach her at vconnor@oregonian.com