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Henline Falls is a majestic 126-foot (38-meter) tall waterfall nestled within the pristine Opal Creek Wilderness of the Willamette National Forest in Marion County, Oregon, USA. Situated at an elevation of approximately 551 meters, this natural monument is fed by Henline Creek, which cascades over a narrow alcove into a series of green pools. The falls are a prominent feature in the Santiam River watershed, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Visitors are consistently drawn to…
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Opal Creek Wilderness
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6. januar 2024
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22. januar 2024
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Oplysninger
Højdemeter 550 m
As of 2024, the Henline Falls trail and the surrounding Opal Creek area are
indefinitely closed
due to extensive damage from the 2020 Beachie Creek Fire. Reopening is anticipated in 2026 or later. Visitors should always check current conditions with the Willamette National Forest before planning any trip to the area.Yes, the area around Henline Falls is rich in history, primarily due to the
Silver King Mine
. Visitors can find remnants of the mine's past, including concrete foundations from a 1930s-era power plant that once used a Pelton water wheel powered by the falls. An abandoned mine shaft, known as the "Queen Vein," is also visible near the falls, though it is now gated to protect bat populations.Henline Falls stands at an impressive
126 feet (38 meters) tall
and averages50 feet (15 meters) in width
. It is fed by Henline Creek, which creates a broad curtain of water over a narrow alcove.When open, the Henline Falls Trail #3348 is generally considered an
easy, out-and-back hike
. It's approximately 1.8 miles round trip with a moderate elevation gain of about 200 to 270 feet, making it suitable for families and those looking for a less strenuous outdoor experience.While the trail is currently closed, in general, trails within the Opal Creek Wilderness, including Henline Falls, typically allow
dogs on leash
. However, it's always best to verify specific regulations with the Willamette National Forest once the area reopens, as rules can change, especially in fire-affected zones.When the area is open, a
self-issued wilderness permit
is recommended for visitors to the Opal Creek Wilderness, especially between May and October. These permits are typically available at the trailhead.Henline Falls is known to
maintain a year-round flow
. However, the water volume is typically highest during the spring due to snowmelt and seasonal rains, offering the most powerful and dramatic views. Flow may decrease slightly in late summer and fall but remains consistent.Yes, for hikers seeking a longer adventure, the
Ogle Mountain Trail
continues climbing past the turn-off for Henline Falls. This offers an opportunity to extend your hike and explore more of the surrounding wilderness, though it will involve additional elevation gain and distance.The trail meanders through a diverse forest ecosystem. Hikers can expect to see a variety of trees such as
Douglas-fir and Western Hemlock
, alongside undergrowth includingred alder, salal, Oregon grape, and sword fern
. While specific wildlife sightings vary, the wilderness setting supports various forest animals.When the area is accessible, Henline Falls is located approximately 40 miles east of Salem, Oregon. Access is typically off Highway 22 via
North Fork Road
. Specific directions to the trailhead will be available from the Willamette National Forest once the area reopens.The Henline Falls area is within the Opal Creek Wilderness, which is a remote natural area. Therefore,
there are no immediate amenities
such as cafes, pubs, or accommodations directly at the trailhead or near the falls. Visitors should plan to bring all necessary supplies and be self-sufficient. Services would be found in nearby towns along Highway 22.