Abiqua Falls Hike & Splash

As you walk down a dusty gravel road in the middle of a Pacific Northwestern jungle, you notice a trail that plunges down a short, but steep hillside. Ropes from adventurers who came before you have been carefully fastened to trees to aid your descent.

You make your way down to the creek and hear the sound of falling water. You follow that sound to its source.

As you round the corner, Abiqua's tremendous coliseum of columnar basalt opens up to you. It's breathtaking. Pictures didn't prepare you for this. Abiqua's falls send a welcoming cool breeze your way; a reward for making the pilgrimage out to pay your respects. You may feel the urge to squeal with joy or sit in silent awe.

Abiqua Falls is hidden, ancient, mystical, and magnificent. A geologic masterpiece with a waterfall for a centerpiece. It's one of the absolute best waterfalls in Oregon.

Going for a dip in the water is optional. Yes, the water will be cold, but exhilarating, and the outside temperature will warm you back up. The more adventurous among us will go behind the waterfall.

So, come out for a great hike to a magnificent waterfall and socialize with a few cool people! And, scroll down for more photos of the waterfall...

**DETAILS**
Difficulty: Moderate
Miles: 4 1/2
Pace: 2.5 mph
Elevation Gain: 700 ft
Notes: Although the difficulty level is moderate, there's a difficult 1/8 mile section that's steep and dusty/rocky down to the creek. There are a couple ropes to help you down to the creek. Anyone who can hike can do this. Just take it slow and wear shoes with excellent traction. For those of you have been to Abiqua before, no, we will not be driving all the way down to the trailhead. The road condition isn't great. I won't take any chances with my car and will not ask anyone else to either.

**WHAT TO BRING**

1. Shoes/boots with excellent traction.
2. Water shoes (optional)
3. Swim trunks/bathing suit (optional)
4. Sunscreen
5. Water & Snacks
6. Cash ($10 for gas, if carpooling)
7. Cash or Venmo for $1 to help cover Meetup costs. Rates have gone up significantly.

**WHERE TO MEET**
Those of us who wish to carpool will meet at the NE corner of the Barbur Boulevard Park & Ride (click on Google map below for the exact location). Passengers, please pay your driver $10 for gas costs. If you're driving on your own, meet us at this Google Maps link at 2:15pm:
https://goo.gl/maps/2JbPqT7Vcxtx7LM57

**DISCLAIMER**
By attending this meetup, you agree that you are responsible for your own health and safety and that the organizer will not be held liable for any injury or health issue you may sustain while in attendance. You attend this meetup at your own risk. Not that any injuries are expected, but be cautious :)