Property Spotlight: Silver Falls State Park
June 18, 2025 | News & Updates, Property Spotlights
Guest Services proudly expands its footprint in the Pacific Northwest with its first-ever property in Oregon: Silver Falls State Park, the state’s largest and most visited park. Surrounded by towering waterfalls, mossy forest trails, and canyon views, this new operation brings Guest Services’ signature hospitality to one of Oregon’s most iconic natural destinations.
“Silver Falls is Guest Services’ newest property and our first in the state of Oregon,” says Chad Taylor, Director of Operations, Hospitality. “It also just happens to be Oregon’s crown jewel.” With over 1.1 million visitors annually, more than 9,000 acres of forest, over 35 miles of trails, and 10 breathtaking waterfalls, Silver Falls truly lives up to its moniker.
Introducing Our Oregon Debut
From rich history to jaw-dropping scenery, Silver Falls offers an experience unlike any other in Oregon.
- Established July 23, 1933, with Civilian Conservation Corps–built historic structures like the South Falls Lodge
- Largest state park in Oregon at ~9,000 acres with more than 24 miles of hiking, 14 miles of horse trails, and a 4‑mile paved bike path
- Trail of Ten Falls: a 7.2‑mile moderate loop dropping 800 ft that features 10 waterfalls, four of which you can walk behind
- South Falls: the iconic 177‑ft cascade (Double Falls is the tallest at ~178 ft)
- Wildlife & nature: Douglas firs, vine maple, abundant wildlife including deer, squirrels — cougars and black bears exist but are rare
Hospitality in the Heart of the Forest
Located just over an hour from Portland, Guest Services now operates South Falls Café, Ten Falls Trading Company, Foothills Ranch, Davidson Ranch, and Smith Creek Village—all catering to day visitors and overnight guests. The lodges and cabins, perched near the falls, provide group accommodations, event space, and full-service commercial kitchens.
South Falls Café: Positioned near the iconic South Falls trailhead, this café offers locally inspired grab-and-go meals, coffee, and refreshments perfect for hikers preparing to explore the Trail of Ten Falls. It’s a central gathering point for visitors to refuel and relax amid scenic views.
Ten Falls Trading Company: Attached to the café, this cozy retail space provides outdoor essentials, apparel, trail snacks, and souvenirs. It’s a convenient stop for picking up last-minute hiking gear or a memento from the park.
Foothills Ranch & Davidson Ranch: These two historic lodges are nestled deeper into the park and designed for group retreats, reunions, and weddings. Each ranch features:
- Approximately 75 bunk-style beds
- A large open gathering hall with a central fireplace
- Commercial-grade kitchens for self-catering or hosted meals
- Scenic surroundings perfect for camp-style programs and rustic celebrations
Smith Creek Village: Formerly closed to the public, this once-private corner of the park is now open and reimagined as a tranquil overnight destination. It includes:
- Eight tiny cabins with 1–3 beds each
- Four larger six-room cabins with shared lounge areas and fireplaces
- The Calypso Cabin, a renovated VIP suite often used by wedding parties
- Two duplex cabins ideal for couples or solo travelers
- A soon-to-open Big Leaf Market & Grill, with coffee, snacks, and a casual dining experience for campers and cabin guests
- Direct access to Mackenzie’s Meadow and trailheads connecting to the broader park
Together, these properties offer an integrated hospitality experience in the heart of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning natural destinations.
Looking Ahead to What’s Next
Exciting developments are underway at Silver Falls, including the upcoming opening of Big Leaf Market & Grill, which will offer coffee and hot meals to both hikers and overnight guests. New seasonal programming is also in the works, featuring birdwatching weekends, winter festivals, and expanded bike rentals. These enhancements align with Oregon Parks’ long-term vision for the North Gateway area, which includes a new campground, visitor center, and improved parking and guest services.
“This is kind of our tryout in Oregon, and there’s a lot of potential here,” Chad adds, highlighting plans to grow community‑centered programming, expand offseason events, and immerse guests in the park’s natural and historical richness.