Overview
The Susan Creek Falls Trail is one of the most accessible waterfall hikes in Umpqua National Forest, reaching a two-tiered cascade in a mossy slot canyon on a short out-and-back from the North Umpqua River corridor. The trail also passes the Indian Mounds, a series of low earthen mounds with interpretive markers explaining the cultural history of the North Umpqua drainage.
The trail starts from the Susan Creek Campground day-use area on Highway 138, making it a natural stop for anyone driving the North Umpqua River corridor. Year-round access and moderate length make it one of the most visited short hikes in the forest.
The Route
Trailhead to Indian Mounds (Mile 0 to 0.6)
From the day-use parking area, the trail immediately crosses Susan Creek on a footbridge and begins climbing gently through a mixed Douglas fir and big-leaf maple forest. At mile 0.6, the Indian Mounds appear to the left of the trail: low earthen features associated with Indigenous use of the river corridor. Interpretive signs explain the archaeological context.
Indian Mounds to the Falls (Mile 0.6 to 1.2)
Above the mounds, the trail steepens through a narrowing ravine with increasing moisture and dense fern growth. Susan Creek narrows noticeably, and the falls are audible before they come into view. The falls emerge in a two-tiered drop into a narrow basalt slot canyon with mossy walls. A wooden viewing platform provides the best angle.
Return via the same route.
When to Hike
April through June brings the highest water volume and most impressive falls. The surrounding old-growth maple is particularly beautiful in spring green.
Year-round access is realistic at this low elevation. Falls run consistently through the driest summers.
October through November brings fall color from the big-leaf maple canopy along the lower trail.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1 liter of water for this short trail. Drinking water is available at the Susan Creek Campground trailhead.
The slot canyon near the falls is cool and humid; a light layer is useful even in summer. Shoes with traction help on the final approach to the falls platform.
Trailhead Access
The Susan Creek Campground day-use area is on Highway 138 about 30 miles east of Roseburg. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking (as of 2026). The campground has flush restrooms and drinking water. No trail permit required.
Dogs are allowed on leash.
Nearby
Watson Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Oregon, is approximately 25 miles east on Highway 138 and can be combined with Susan Creek on the same day. The North Umpqua Trail Steamboat Section provides a longer river corridor hike for those wanting more mileage.
Check current waterfall flow and campground conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles at the falls viewpoint.