Oregon’s picturesque waterfalls make for a great payoff after a long hike, but you don’t always need to slog along for miles. Some trails are quick and easy, making them perfect for kids who are less likely to whine, “Are we there yet?” when they can get to the good stuff fast. Check out this waterfall hike that’s just two miles out and back:
The Siuslaw National Forest covers 991 square miles, and is home to many of Oregon’s most beautiful natural treasures. Explore a tiny slice of this forest on the Sweet Creek Trail.
Rick Obst/flickr To find the Homestead Trailhead, start in Mapleton, which is 15 miles east of Florence. From Highway 126, cross the bridge and turn onto Sweet Creek Road. Drive 10.2 miles to find the trailhead.
The trail is 2.2 miles long, out and back, and there are a few other trails in the area that you can explore if the kids are up for a longer adventure.
Rick Obst/flickr
This hike has all the components of a trail that kids love - bridges, stairs, running water, and almost no elevation for an easy afternoon of exploration.
Rick Obst/flickr
The hardest part of the trail is the short staircase that’s framed by ferns. Your kids will likely bop up it so fast that you’ll have to tell them to wait up for you.
Jeannette J/Tripadvisor
You’ll enjoy the incredible scenic vistas around every corner, and you might have to bribe your kids to stand still long enough to snap some photos of this picturesque landscape.
Rick Obst/flickr
There are 11 waterfalls along the trail, ranging in size from teeny tiny…
Terri B/Tripadvisor
…to medium sized…
Rick Obst/flickr
…to falls that cascade down the hillside.
Becky M/Tripadvisor
The trail is lined with beautiful greenery, tall trees, and plenty of interesting boulders and tree trunks that have been cut in half to accommodate the trail.
IndySoxMurphy/Tripadvisor
When little feet get tired, take a break on a bench or find a log to relax on and enjoy a little snack.
Rick Obst/flickr As with all Oregon hikes, make sure to outfit you and your kids with appropriate footwear and bring along some fresh water. It’s always a good idea to have a first aid kit along, with bandages for blisters and some insect spray.
Have you hiked Sweet Creek Trail with your kids? Tell us about your adventures!
Rick Obst/flickr
To find the Homestead Trailhead, start in Mapleton, which is 15 miles east of Florence. From Highway 126, cross the bridge and turn onto Sweet Creek Road. Drive 10.2 miles to find the trailhead.
Jeannette J/Tripadvisor
Terri B/Tripadvisor
Becky M/Tripadvisor
IndySoxMurphy/Tripadvisor
As with all Oregon hikes, make sure to outfit you and your kids with appropriate footwear and bring along some fresh water. It’s always a good idea to have a first aid kit along, with bandages for blisters and some insect spray.
Ready to explore another waterfall hiking trail? This one is less than one mile long.
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