Golden and Silver Falls State Park - Oregon

Interestingly, Golden Falls was not named for the gold flecks of rock surrounding it, but for the first Grand Chancellor of the Oregon Knights of Pythias, Dr. C.B. Golden. Nevertheless, both Falls live up to their precious names, with both dropping over 150 feet down over massive boulders at the bottom. Visitors are welcome to check out the top of the Falls for the best views of the cascading water. The old growth firs and cedars as well as the dense maples, alders and myrtles make for beautiful wilderness surrounding, and a great area to enjoy a picnic or a relaxing stroll through the woods. Nature lovers will also enjoy bird and wildlife-watching opportunities year round in this lovely, hidden gem of a State Park.

A hidden gem in the dense coastal forests of southwest Oregon, Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area may be hard to find, but it's well worth the 24-mile drive from U.S. Highway 101. The small parking and picnic area are located along the banks of Glenn and Silver Creeks and is shaded by large maple, alder, and Oregon myrtle trees. Hiking trails wind through scenic canyons to each of the waterfalls - they plunge over sheer rock cliffs to moss covered boulders 100 feet below.