As you ascend the slopes of Newberry Volcano en route to its caldera—and the beating heart of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument—give yourself a few minutes to admire Paulina Creek Falls (also known as Paulina Falls).
The 80-foot double waterfall, with two plumes tumbling side by side, is fed by nearby Paulina Lake—and drops into a boulder-strewn streambed below. Even in late summer, when the waterfall’s flow has slowed, it remains an impressive site as it tumbles over a shelf of volcanic rock.
Visitors have two choices for taking in the beauty of Paulina Creek Falls. The first comes from the Paulina Falls Day-Use Area, which sits just beyond the parking area and above the waterfall; here, a wheelchair-accessible trail heads to picnic tables and a wide-open overlook.
If you’re looking for another viewpoint, follow the short Paulina Falls Trail (0.4 miles round-trip) to Paulina Creek at the bottom of the waterfall—where creekside views comprise both plumes and the conifer forest the surrounds them. The trail drops roughly 100 feet along the way.
However you choose to visit, keep in mind that the viewpoint and trail is typically open between June and October.
Open Season
Late May-mid-Nov.
Dog Friendly and/or Leash Rules
Leashed dogs are permitted.
Best time to visit
June-Oct.
Don’t Miss
If time and abilities allow, head to the base of Paulina Creek Falls for panoramic views of both plumes.
Fees or Pass Needed
A Forest Pass ($5 per day pass or $30 per annual pass) or America the Beautiful pass ($80 per annual pass) is accepted.
Restrictions
Horses and mountain bikes are prohibited on the Paulina Creek Falls Trail.
Activities
Hiking
Walking
Viewpoint
Parking
Parking is available at the Paulina Creek Falls Day-Use Area.
Directions
From La Pine, the 18-mile drive to Paulina Creek Falls takes about 30 minutes via northbound Highway 97 and Paulina-East Lake Road.
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