Stafford Falls via Deer Creek

Stafford Falls via Deer Creek is a 3.6-mile out-and-back from the Deer Creek/Owyhigh Lakes trailhead on SR 123. Follow Owyhigh Lakes Trail 0.4 mile downhill to Eastside Trail, then head south about 1.4 miles to a short spur at the falls and return the same way. Allow about 2.5 hours for the creek stops and the steep climb back to the road. A short side trip at the junction visits Deer Creek Falls and adds a little distance.

The trailhead sign reads Owyhigh Lakes, not Stafford Falls. The route drops through forest beside Deer Creek, losing nearly 300 feet in the first 0.4 mile. At the bottom it meets Eastside Trail. An optional detour to the right crosses two footbridges to cascades and a pool on Chinook Creek; retrace it to the junction before continuing south.

The Eastside stretch stays in dense lowland forest, with few broad views but plenty to watch at creek level. About 0.8 mile after the junction, a bridge crosses above a clear blue-green pool pouring through a rocky chute. Around a mile in, a rough side path reaches another rocky pool. Old-growth trees line the corridor.

At about 1.4 miles south of the junction, look for the short spur to Stafford Falls. The waterfall drops about 30 feet into a clear plunge pool between steep, vertical basalt walls. It was named for early park ranger William Stafford. The viewpoint is close to the top of the falls; frame the drop with the dark rock walls and bright pool, and stay on the established path.

The small parking area is on the east side of SR 123, about 200 feet south of the trailhead sign, which you reach by crossing the highway. It holds only a few vehicles, so take care when crossing and parking. There is no toilet at the road; a wilderness camp privy is available at Deer Creek Camp near the junction. Pets are prohibited on park trails. Vehicle access is seasonal: SR 123 closes in winter, and the usual hiking season is May through October. Check road and trail conditions before setting out.