Dillon Falls to Benham Falls Hike

## Come explore one of the most scenic stretches of the Deschutes River Trail, get outside, and meet some new people!

This beautiful section winds through ponderosa forest, open meadows, lava-rock formations, and peaceful stretches of river before reaching the powerful rapids at Benham Falls.

We’ll also pass several viewpoints overlooking the Deschutes along the way.
The trail has relatively little elevation gain, making it approachable for many hikers, but the total distance and occasional rocky or uneven sections still provide a solid moderate outing. We’ll hike at a comfortable social pace with opportunities to talk, meet new people, and enjoy the scenery.

### Hike Details

Distance: Approximately 6.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Estimated time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours, including breaks
Route type: Out and back
Terrain: Mostly packed dirt with some sandy, rocky, and uneven sections
Meeting point: Dillon Falls Day Use Area
Turnaround point: Benham Falls
Please arrive early enough to park, use the restroom, and be ready to hike. We will wait until 11:15 a.m. for everyone to arrive and will promptly begin hiking at 11:15 a.m.
We’ll begin at the Dillon Falls Day Use Area and follow the Deschutes River Trail south toward Benham Falls. Once we reach the Benham Falls area, we’ll stop for a short snack and water break before returning along the same route.

### View and Download the Exact Route

We will be following this AllTrails route:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/dillon-falls-to-benham-falls?p=-1&sh=janmvn&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

### What to Bring

Please bring plenty of water, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, bug spray, and a snack. Trekking poles are optional but may be helpful on uneven sections.

### Parking and Recreation Pass

We’ll meet at the Dillon Falls Day Use Area. A Northwest Forest Pass, America the Beautiful Pass, or another accepted federal recreation pass may be required for parking.
Please obtain your pass before arriving, as purchasing options at the trailhead may be limited. Carpooling is encouraged because trailhead parking can fill up, especially on weekends.

### Dogs

Friendly dogs are welcome, but owners are responsible for keeping them under control and following all posted leash requirements. Please consider whether your dog is comfortable around a larger group, other dogs, bikes, and a six-mile hike.

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### Group Hiking Expectations

We’ll regroup at major intersections and make a reasonable effort to keep everyone together. Please let me know before leaving the group early or turning around.