The Opal Creek area contains the largest contiguous ancient forest in the western Cascades. Trees are up to 500 years old. La Cascada's 7-foot falls splashes into a lovely pool. Boulders and large rocks compose the banks.

Driving Instructions

La Cascada de los Ninos is 42.8 miles east of Salem. Follow the driving instructions for Swimming Hole #133 to the recreation-area turnoff. Turn left and drive to the end of the pavement, at the entry into Willamette National Forest, 15.3 miles. Continue on gravel to where the road forks, 1.4 miles. Forest Road 2209 goes to the left; Forest Road 2207 goes to the right. Go left to a closed gate, the entry to the Opal Creek area, 4.2 miles.

	La Cascada de los Ninos Rating: 7 Location: Willamette National Forest Water quality: Excellent; transparent to bottom Vital statistics: 60' wide; at least 8' deep; moderate current; 61 F. (July); light algae; rock, boulder and bedrock bottom; light use Setting: Forested valley at 2040"; light litter Swim skill: Moderate to strong Amenities: None Entry fee: No Topo: Battle Ax 7-1/2'

Hiking Instructions

From the gate, hike 2.1 miles on a dirt road (which the detail map shows as a trail) to the Opal Creek Trailhead. Do not take the Opal Creek Trail (right), but continue on the road (left) to La Cascada, on the right, 0.4 mile.