On 7/12/06, David August, David Honigstock, and Dave Liberts (the three Davids) accompanied Mel Ball on a hike in Silver Falls Park, Oregon. It is the largest state park in Oregon, located about 30 miles east of Salem and 5o miles south of Portland. We took the most popular path, the Trail of Ten Falls, which is about 9 miles long and passes 10 waterfalls. The two Davids walked the entire trail, while Mel and Dave walked about 5 miles. It was a rainy day but our spirits were high and did not let the conditions deter us.

Upon entering the path just past the Lodge we came to the South Falls and knew at that point that this was going to be a special place. David H and Dave L were the photographers.

Here's two shots of the group.



That's, from left to right, David A., Mel B., and David H.



These are, from left to right, Dave L, Mel B., and David A.

Here's the South Falls.



It is 177 ft high and is one of the falls which you can walk behind.







Here's Mel propping up the wall behind the falls so we could pass safely.



Then it was back on the trail through some beautiful scenery.



The next fall was the Lower South Falls. It's 93 ft high.







Next stop is the Lower North Falls which is only 30 ft high.







Here's David H. posing at the falls.

A pretty view of the North Fork Silver Creek.



Just a short break for the older fellows.



Then a short side trip to Double Falls, which are actually the highest at 178 ft because of the double drop.



This is the bottom of the falls.

Next, we went to the Middle North Falls (106 ft) which also has a trail behind it.

Here we go under the falls.















These were shot directly behind the falls.






























And this one was taken just as we left the falls.















Here's a nice view of the North Fork Silver Creek again.
















At this point the two Davids went on and Mel and Dave took the Winter Trail shortcut.

This is Winter Falls (134 ft)



On our way back, we passed through a rain forrest like area and saw trees draped with moss. Here's the best one.



Here's a shot of Upper North Falls (136 ft).



And, finally a shot of the last survivers of the hike. We'll miss Mr H.



It was all good fun and we look forward to returning on a sunny day.