About Switchback Falls
Switchback Falls is a named waterfall in Hood River County, Oregon, located about 16 miles east of Mount Hood Village. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Mount Hood South 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 45°18′51″ N, 121°39′38″ W (45.31417, -121.66064). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include North Fork Iron Creek (stream, 0.9 mi), South Fork Iron Creek (stream, 0.9 mi), and Bennett Pass (gap, 0.9 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Umbrella Falls, 1.0 miles to the north.
Weather at Switchback Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Switchback Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Los Angeles time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Switchback Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Switchback Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- North Fork Iron Creek — stream, 0.9 mi
- South Fork Iron Creek — stream, 0.9 mi
- Bennett Pass — gap, 0.9 mi
- Mitchell Creek — stream, 1.0 mi
- Teacup Lake — lake, 1.7 mi
- Green Apple Creek — stream, 2.0 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 45.31417, -121.66064. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Switchback Falls
- Stein Falls, OR12 mi southwest
- Split Falls, OR12 mi southwest
- Little Niagara Falls, OR12 mi southwest
- Hideaway Falls, OR12 mi southwest
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Switchback Falls located?
Switchback Falls is in Hood River County, Oregon, about 16 miles east of Mount Hood Village. Its coordinates are 45.31417, -121.66064 (45°18′51″ N, 121°39′38″ W).
What town is closest to Switchback Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Mount Hood Village, OR, about 16 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Switchback Falls?
The closest is Umbrella Falls (1.0 mi north). Others within reach include Sahale Falls (1.0 mi), Yocum Falls (6.4 mi), and Wallalute Falls (6.7 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Switchback Falls?
Switchback Falls appears on the USGS Mount Hood South 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.