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The final of the four major waterfalls along the North Fork of Tumalo Creek can actually be partially seen from the Tumalo Creek trail as it skirts the North Fork just after crossing the Middle Fork, though trees obstruct most of the descent. Those who wish to scramble upstream for a closer look will be rewarded with a very pretty 43-foot tall plunging waterfall pounding into a gorgeous azure pool.
- Lower North Fork Tumalo Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
The Tumalo Falls area is located about 10 miles west of Bend beneath Broken Top. From Highway 97 in Bend, turn west on Franklin Street. As Franklin runs through town, it parallels a nice park along the Deschutes River. Just after this park - about a mile from 97 - turn right and cross the river on Galveston Street. After passing Century Drive, Galveston turns into Skyliners Road. Follow Skyliners Road for 10 ½ miles, and turn left on FR 4601, signed for Tumalo Falls, just after crossing Tumalo Creek. This gravel route ends in another 2 ½ miles at the Tumalo Falls Trailhead. Following the trail to the top of Tumalo Falls, continue upstream for just over 2.5 miles, at which point the trail will cross the Middle Fork of Tumalo Creek on a footbridge then make three switchbacks between the North and Middle Forks. At the third switchback one can see Lower North Fork Tumalo Falls through the trees. Walk back downstream to the first switchback where the trail skirts the North Fork and find a log spanning the creek to cross on. Once on the other side, make your way upstream to the falls (this may require getting your feet a little wet).
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