Lemolo Falls is both the tallest and most powerful waterfall along the North Umpqua River. Here the river breaks over a contorted cliff of columnar basalt and plummets 165 feet into a large pool. The falls have been described as a raucous monster - its name even adding to that reputation - yet Lemolo Falls is actually one of the most consistent waterfalls in Oregon. The Lemolo Lake Dam a few mile upstream draws off the vast majority of the North Umpqua River but allows a fixed amount of water to flow over the falls at all times.
Two trails lead to Lemolo Falls. The North Umpqua trail affords side view from the top of the canyon. The "old" trail drops into the canyon to afford a better, direct view, though it requires a steep climb back out. These photos are taken from the "old" trail. Obviously the orientation of the falls better suits photography on a cloudy day, or earlier/later hours when sunlight doesn't get into the canyon.
