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Alkali Falls is a lofty series of cascades located northwest of Crater Lake. The falls twist down a long chute-like gully, descending about 560 feet in a run of about 1/10th of a mile. This makes Alkali Falls one of the 5 tallest waterfalls in Oregon, but due to the diminutive size of Alkali Creek, it isn't significant in any way. The first drop is a pretty veiling, almost vertical descent of about 130 feet. Shortly below, the creek drops 20 feet then turns almost 90 degrees and slides down a long incline for about 120 vertical feet. It then cascades through a short section of boulders, and enters more slides before ending in a small rocky basin. The Forest Service has a short trail developed to the base of the falls, but unfortunately, to see the better sections of the falls, hiking upstream alongside the falls is necessary. Maybe one day the trail will be extended.
- Alkali Falls is the Official name of this waterfall.
- Known Alternate Names: Alkali Creek Falls
Alkali Meadows was a popular sheepherders' camp during the turn of the 20th century, many of the common occupants of which came from central Oregon where Alkali lakes are common. The name doesn't reflect the geology of the area, but rather is a homage to the history of man in the area. The falls were named for the creek.
Alkali Falls are located about 6 miles northwest of Crater Lake National Park. From the intersection of Highways 62 and 230 in Union Creek, head north on Highway 230 to the second junction with FR 6540, approximately 1/4 mile north of Highway Falls. Follow 6540 for 1/2 mile, staying left on Road 6540-900. Turn left on Road 6540-950 in 1 1/4 miles further and follow to its end. The trail leads to the base of the falls in less than 1/10th of a mile. The upper sections of the falls can be best accessed by crossing the creek and scrambling upstream along the falls on the north bank.
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