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South Fork Umatilla River Trail

Umatilla National Forest, Oregon · 3 min read

Distance
7 mi
Elevation Gain
700 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Est. Time
3-4 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • South Fork Umatilla River, a cold clear trout stream with excellent fishing access
  • Narrow canyon with ponderosa pine, grand fir, and riparian cottonwood and alder
  • Good wildlife corridor with regular elk, deer, and black bear activity
  • Low visitor traffic makes this one of the quieter river trails in the Blue Mountains
  • Canyon floor habitat that stays cool even during summer heat
riverwildlifeviews

Overview

The South Fork Umatilla River Trail follows a cold canyon stream through a section of Umatilla National Forest that sees far fewer visitors than the wilderness areas to the east and south. The canyon is typical Blue Mountains terrain: ponderosa and grand fir on the slopes, cottonwood and alder in the narrow bottomlands, and a clear river that runs cold even in late summer when most lowland streams have dropped to a trickle.

The 7-mile out-and-back covers the most scenic and accessible section of the canyon, gaining 700 feet gradually as it follows the river upstream. There are no destinations in the conventional sense; the canyon itself is the attraction, with good fishing, canyon views, and wildlife activity throughout.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.5: Canyon entry. The trail drops from the trailhead into the canyon immediately, following the river on its south bank. The first 2.5 miles are the widest section of the canyon, with cottonwood groves in the bottomland and open ponderosa hillsides above. River crossings are easy at this section after midsummer, requiring only rock hops at low water.

Miles 2.5 to 3.5: Narrows. The canyon tightens around mile 2.5, pushing the trail into closer contact with the river. This is the best section for fishing, with deep pools behind boulders that hold resident trout. The canyon walls rise 200 to 300 feet in the narrows, and the light is dramatic at midday when the sun is directly overhead. Most day hikers turn around somewhere in this section.

When to Hike

May and June: The river is high and the canyon is lush with new growth. Crossings require care. Wildflowers bloom on the canyon slopes.

July through September: The most accessible season. River crossings are straightforward, temperatures are warm but the canyon shade keeps it manageable. Fishing is productive throughout.

October: Excellent for elk activity. The canyon elk herd is active in October with rutting bulls bugling from the canyon walls. Hunting season begins; blaze orange is recommended.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. The river is a nearby water source but requires treatment. Sandals or waterproof boots suitable for river crossings are worth considering for June through August trips. A fishing rod is worth bringing if you have a valid Oregon fishing license (as of 2026).

Trailhead Access

From Ukiah on US-395, take FR-31 south about 12 miles to the trailhead. The road is gravel but passable with standard vehicles in dry season. From Pendleton, allow about 1.5 hours.

Nearby

The North Fork John Day Trail is the major wilderness river route in Umatilla National Forest, about 30 miles to the south. The Lookingglass Creek Trail offers a similar canyon experience to the east. Follow Leave No Trace principles along the river, especially around campsites.

Trailhead Parking

South Fork Umatilla Trailhead off FR-31, about 12 miles south of Ukiah. Gravel pullout with room for several vehicles. No fee. Vault toilet at nearby campsite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the South Fork Umatilla good for fishing?
Yes. The South Fork Umatilla is a productive trout stream with resident rainbow and bull trout. The canyon section accessed by this trail sees relatively little fishing pressure compared to more accessible streams. Oregon fishing regulations apply; verify current seasons and requirements with ODFW.
Are there river crossings on this trail?
Yes, several shallow crossings occur along the route, typically knee-deep or less by midsummer. In May and early June, spring runoff makes crossings more substantial. Waterproof boots or sandals appropriate for wet crossings are recommended.
Can I camp along the South Fork Umatilla River Trail?
Yes. Dispersed camping is permitted on national forest land throughout the canyon. Camp at least 100 feet from the river and trail. Pack out all waste. No permit required.