Exploring the backcountry of Silver Falls State Park

Peak Northwest

If you’ve only ever seen the waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park, you may be missing out.

While most visitors to Oregon’s waterfall wonderland are content to stick to the famous Trail of Ten Falls, there are also more than 35 miles of backcountry trails to explore, winding their way through the bulk of the 9,200-acre state park.

A day or overnight trip to the backcountry is an easy way to find solitude in one of Oregon’s busiest parks, whether you’re hiking, mountain biking or riding horseback. On this week’s episode of Peak Northwest, we’ll take you to the trails, cabins and trees that make up this quiet adventure.

Here are some highlights from this week’s show:

• The backcountry at Silver Falls is extensive, but considerably less explored than the main part of the park.
• The Buck Mountain Loop is a great way to see a big chunk of the backcountry.
• Cabins at Smith Creek Village are a nice alternative to the state park campground.
• The Howard Creek Loop is an easy hike for those who want to dip their toes into the backcountry.

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-- Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor

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