Linton Falls

NOTE: There is no development of viewing areas or trails, which makes for more of a wilderness experience than other waterfalls in the region. There may also be fallen trees blocking the trail, making this adventure more challenging. 

Hiking to Linton Falls accounts for the two larger waterfalls on the cascading Linton Creek. The hike begins at the trailhead to Linton Lake, off the Mackenzie Pass Highway (242) about 8 miles east from the junction with Highway 126.

The first 1.5 miles of the trail to Linton Lake is relatively easy hiking, with a well-defined trail leading you through lava fields and along the edge of Linton Lake. This is the official trail to Linton Lake, and this ends at the campground at Obsidian Creek (a good way to make this an overnight trip!).

The hike then turns into more of an adventure, with several trails continuing further along the lakeside in the direction of Linton Creek. These trails can be quite challenging to follow, with plenty of climbing over fallen trees and squishing through mud. Follow these trails for about 1/3 of a mile until you reach Linton Creek, where the real challenge begins.

The ever-diminishing trail then leads uphill, following an obvious ridgeline beside the creek and gaining elevation at a much faster rate than the creek. After about 1/4 of a mile the ridge flattens out and you find yourself on the edge of a gorge overlooking the lower of the two main falls.

From here, continue following the trail upstream, and a good spot for lunch can be found by hiking to the top of the lower falls and setting up there - it's a beautiful spot.

The second and more scenic of the falls can be reached by scrambling directly upstream from this spot atop the falls about 100 yards to the base of the upper falls. It is here you will experience the true magic of Linton Falls as you stand at the base of the falls and watch the water come down beside you.

Since you're in the area, don't Miss Proxy Falls!

No McKenzie Pass journey is complete without a stop at Proxy Falls, one of Oregon's most photogenic waterfalls. The trailhead is conveniently located right off Highway 242, and the easy 2-mile hike rewards you with not one but two spectacular waterfalls—Upper and Lower Proxy Falls. At 226 feet, Lower Proxy creates an incredible misty atmosphere perfect for photography (bring a lens cloth!). It's an ideal leg-stretcher during your scenic drive, offering maximum natural beauty with minimal effort. Dog-friendly and family-friendly, this is waterfall viewing at its most accessible.