Cline Falls

The primary hiking experience at Cline Falls is a short, accessible trail leading from Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint directly to the falls. This trail is generally considered easy and suitable for most visitors, including families. It offers beautiful views of the Deschutes River and the surrounding basalt cliffs. While there isn't an extensive network of long, challenging trails directly at the falls, the area is perfect for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the natural beauty.

Yes, Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted in the park and on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

Parking is available at Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint. The park is a day-use area and is free to enter when open. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season (warmer months) and on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to visit during popular times.

While the park offers amenities like picnic tables and restrooms, the trail leading to the falls may have uneven terrain or natural obstacles that could pose challenges for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility issues. It's best to assess the conditions upon arrival. Some areas of the viewpoint itself might be more accessible than the direct path to the falls.

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint typically closes during the winter months. While the falls themselves are a natural feature, access to the park and its amenities, including the short trail to the falls, is usually restricted. It's advisable to check the Oregon State Parks website for current operating hours and seasonal closures before planning a winter visit.

No, there are no permits or fees required to visit Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint. It is a day-use park that is free to enter when open. This makes it a convenient and accessible option for enjoying the natural beauty of the Deschutes River.

The diverse habitats around Cline Falls support a variety of wildlife. Visitors might spot various waterfowl, Canada geese, and songbirds. Raptors such as prairie falcons and golden eagles are also known to frequent the area. Smaller mammals like the Great Basin pocket mouse and sagebrush voles inhabit the surrounding landscape.

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint is located approximately four miles (6.4 km) west of Redmond, Oregon. Redmond offers a range of dining options, including cafes and restaurants, as well as various accommodation choices from hotels to motels. There are no commercial establishments directly at the falls, so planning to eat or stay in Redmond is recommended.

Beyond the impressive 20-foot segmented cascade, Cline Falls is set within a basalt rimrock canyon. The surrounding landscape features western juniper, ponderosa pine, sagebrush, and bitterbrush, while the riparian zones along the river include willow, alder, locust, and poplar trees. Keep an eye out for the unique basalt cliffs that define the falls and the riverbed, and enjoy the diverse plant life that thrives in this high desert environment.

A visit to Cline Falls can be as short or as long as you like. The short trail to the falls and time spent enjoying the viewpoint might take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to picnic, fish, or simply relax by the river, you could easily spend several hours enjoying the park's amenities and serene atmosphere.

Cline Falls is named after Dr. Cass A. Cline, who owned the adjacent land in the early 20th century. The falls were historically used for hydroelectric power generation, supplying electricity to Redmond and Prineville. A dam built in 1912 was later removed in 2017 to restore the river's natural state, making the area significant for both its early development and modern conservation efforts.