East of Interstate 5, Oregon’s Route 138 climbs through the foothills of the Cascade Range, leading most of the state’s sightseers to breathtaking views of Crater Lake. Some of these travelers may not realize that this route is part of the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, commonly called the Highway of Waterfalls.
   Here, the byway follows the North Umpqua River, carrying the wild and scenic designation since 1988. As side canyon tributaries descend down to the river, a variety of cascades and waterfalls are created. These natural wonders offer plenty of scenic stops along the byway. Travel guide brochures often exaggerate the truth, but when the Umpqua’s emerald green waters are mentioned, it’s definitely a bona fide claim. These cool, sparking waters draw in anglers, whitewater runners and photographers from all around the globe.
   This delightful byway setting at the Watson Creek offers a close-up look at this cascade or scree-type waterfall. Here in Douglas County this beautiful waterfall is covered in thick layer of soft moss, located just a short distance from the main highway. For waterfall fans take Forest Road 37 (Fish Creek Road) to a parking area. It's rated as a short hike, less than a mile for the roundtrip.
   This 60 mile segment of the scenic byway, which follows the the North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River, offers many picnic areas, campgrounds and scenic sites along the way. The Thundering Water brochure developed by the Roseburg District Bureau of Land Management and the Umpqua National Forest, with assistance from the Roseburg Visitors and Convention Bureau, points to each of the 11 waterfall sites along the way. With so many sightseeing opportunites, this trip may take multiple days to enjoy.

     Area Map
     Inset Photos: Whitehorse Falls and Watson Falls