Silverton, OR. — Silver Falls State Park will celebrate the season with its annual Winter Festival on December 13 and 14, offering guided nature hikes, craft stations and hands-on educational activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
Visitors can explore how the landscape, wildlife and forest ecosystems shift during the colder months, with park staff and volunteers leading programs that highlight winter habitats, migratory birds, resident species and seasonal natural changes.
Activities in the South Falls District feature guided walks and classes, bird-themed craft making and opportunities to build nest boxes. Guests may create wreaths, assemble bird feeders or participate in paper craft workshops. At Smith Creek Village, located 1.5 miles from South Falls, the festival expands with native plant propagation demonstrations and gingerbread and sugar-cookie decorating. Hot food will be available at the Bigleaf Market and Grill.
The festival includes a full schedule of ranger-led hikes beginning at the South Falls Lodge Courtyard:
11 a.m. Winter Tree ID hike (1 hour)
12 p.m. Mushroom ID hike (1 hour)
1 p.m. Winter Tree ID hike (Saturday only, 1 hour)
2 p.m. Mushroom ID hike (1 hour)
Discovery tables throughout the area will offer information on waterfalls in winter, solstice traditions and other seasonal topics. On Saturday, visitors can also learn how maple syrup is produced from native bigleaf maples.
Participants who complete at least eight activities can earn a commemorative Silver Falls ornament.
All festival activities are free; however, a day-use parking permit is required. Permit costs are $10 per day for Oregon residents and $12 for non-residents, with annual permits available for $30 through December 31, 2025, sold onsite. More information is available on the event page at stateparks.oregon.gov or by calling 503-874-0201.
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