Visiting Youngs River Falls: Astoria, Oregon
About 10 miles south of Astoria, Oregon in northwest Oregon lies Youngs River Falls — a scenic 54-foot cascade on the Youngs River that’s both easily accessible and delightfully wild. Let's take a closer look at what makes this spot special — and what to keep in mind if you plan to go.
The Setting & Appeal
Youngs River Falls tumbles over a wide cliff face – approximately 45 feet across – into a deep pool surrounded by forest and river-gravel shoreline. Because the river reaches near sea level at the falls, the setting has a low-elevation, lush-coastal-forest feel that’s somewhat unusual for such a substantial waterfall.
In warmer months it becomes a locally beloved spot for a dip or just cooling off. The water, while never tropical, offers a surprisingly pleasant swim and the backdrop is stunning.
A Bit of History
- The Youngs River was named in 1792 by William Robert Broughton, a lieutenant in the British Royal Navy, who honored Admiral Sir George Young.
- The falls themselves were noted by Patrick Gass (a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition) in March 1806: “about 20 miles from its mouth … falls, which had about 60 feet of a perpendicular pitch”.
- Over the years the falls have also made it into pop culture: appearances in films such as Free Willy 2 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III.
Getting There & Trail Info
- The access is relatively easy: from Astoria take Highway 202 or Business 101 to Youngs River Road, follow it for several miles and look for signage to the falls.
- The parking area is a small roadside lot. From there, a short trail (~0.25 mile) descends downhill to the base of the falls.
- While the walk is short, note that the descent can be steep, with rocks and roots underfoot, and the trail can get muddy or slick in rainy conditions.
What to Expect & Tips for Visiting
What you’ll love:
- A dramatic natural setting just a short drive from town
- A refreshing swim or wading spot in summer
- Beautiful photo opportunities — wide waterfall, forest context, gravel beach
Practical tips:
- Wear proper shoes: the rocks are slippery, the trail uneven.
- Bring water shoes if you plan to enter the pool — the riverbed is rocky.
- No camping or overnight parking: the site is for day-use only.
- Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.
- Cliff-jumping or climbing the falls is strongly discouraged: the rock faces are slick and dangers have existed (including fatalities).
- Because it’s easy to access and close to Astoria, it can get busy in peak summer. Visit early or mid-week for more solitude.
Seasons & Vibes
- Summer: Warm weather, popular for swimming and hangouts.
- Spring/Fall: Water volume may increase; trail conditions (mud, wet) may be more challenging.
- Winter: Dramatic flow, but colder, wetter, and fewer people — fewer amenities, so be prepared for basic conditions.
Why It’s Worth a Stop
Youngs River Falls isn’t the tallest or most remote waterfall in Oregon, but that’s exactly its charm. It’s a place where you can trade long hikes for a quick escape into the woods, where the sound of falling water drowns out everything else for a while. Combine it with a visit to the Astoria Column, Fort Clatsop, or the Peter Iredale shipwreck, and you’ll have a perfect day that blends nature, history, and coastal beauty. Whether you come for a swim, a photo, or a quiet moment by the river, Youngs River Falls is a reminder that even close to town, the Oregon Coast still holds pockets of wild wonder.
