|
This is the largest of the 6 plus waterfalls in the upper basin of French Creek that can be readily seen with ease. The falls plunge through a narrow wooded gap and spray about 130 feet down a basalt cliff to a large talus pile. A series of high-tension towers string power lines above the falls, though fortunately far enough above that it isn't a detractor for photographs. Because of the small size of the drainage area above the falls, I suspect the falls likely run close to dry late in the year, but I would be surprised if it dries out completely. I suspect that during low-flows, it wouldn't be worth taking pictures of this waterfall, however.
- French Basin Falls 4 is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
Located north of Detroit Lake near the Santiam Highway. From I-5 in Salem, follow Highway 22 east for about 49 miles to French Creek Road - just west of the bridge over the Breitenbush River on the west side of the town of Detroit - and turn left. Proceed for just over 4 miles, and keep left on FR # 2225. Proceed for another 1.2 miles to where the falls can be seen across the valley from a turnout where the road bends to the right. Approaching the bottom of the falls from downstream is likely possible, but not recommended (it looks especially brushy).
|
