Proxy Falls — An Easy Hike with Two Waterfalls

An easy loop near McKenzie River leads to a stream that divides into two separate waterfalls, with views of both along the trail.

Proxy Falls

A summer-only roadside hike offers two waterfall rewards before snow closes the road.

Proxy Falls Trail #3532 lies just east of McKenzie River, off Hwy 242 in the Cascade Mountains. One stream forms two shimmering drops, with a total descent of 226 feet (68.885 m).

The water appears to vanish in the pool below rather than continue as a stream. In reality, it sinks into the ground through porous lava.

This family-friendly route is not ADA accessible. The dirt-and-lava-rock path makes an easy loop of 1.5 miles (2.4140 km).

Along the route, hikers encounter different perspectives of the upper and lower portions of Proxy Falls. Near the bottom, scrambling closer to the water makes it possible to feel the spray. As with all waterfalls, be alert for falling rocks and debris.

Proxy Falls is among Oregon's most frequently photographed waterfalls, so bring a camera.

Know Before You Go

• Roadside pullouts often have crowded parking.
• A vault toilet is located across the road.
• Picnic area available.
• Willamette National Forest - Three Sisters Wilderness - McKenzie River Ranger Station
• Dogs are welcome on this trail.
• A Day Use Fee Area ($5 a vehicle) or Recreation Pass is required.
• Snow typically closes Hwy 242 from November - June.

Directions

Beginning at the junction of Hwy 126 and Hwy 242, just west of Belknap Hot Springs, continue on Hwy 242 for 6.5 miles (10.461 km). Roadside signs identify the Proxy Falls Trailhead.

A Forest and Mountain Walk

Proxy Falls offers a strong feeling of deep-forest solitude alongside mountain scenery. The 1.5 mile (2,4-km) loop crosses open lava fields and dense forest while leading to two distinct waterfall viewpoints.

Nearby Attractions

• Dee Wright Observatory
• Belknap Hot Springs
• McKenzie River National Recreation Trail (MRT)

Nearby Lodging

• Belknap Hot Springs Resort & Camp Yale
• Loloma Lodge
• Caddisfly Resort LLC
• Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters

Seasonal Waterfall Stories

Colorful Autumn Waterfalls

Fall is a chance to explore favorite waterfalls with summer hikers and summer heat gone, leaving trails more untrodden.

Spectacular Summer Waterfalls

Summer offers long days for visiting some of the most beautiful outdoor places in the region.

Area and Contributor

• Waterfalls
• Samantha Inouye
• McKenzie River
• Hiking