A 20-year-old male hiker died Monday evening after falling approximately 177 feet from the upper viewpoint of South Falls in Silver Falls State Park, Oregon. The incident occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. when the visitor slipped while attempting to reach an area for a photograph, according to park officials and authorities.
Park rangers and bystanders responded immediately, performing CPR as emergency services arrived. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released the man’s identity, pending notification of next of kin.
The Marion County Medical Examiner released the victim’s body to Marion County Search and Rescue, which completed recovery efforts from the base of the falls. Unger Funeral Chapel later took custody of the remains, as reported by local media.
Park officials describe the incident as a 'horrific accident.'
Silver Falls State Park regional manager Chris Gilliand stated, 'It was a pretty horrific accident. A very tough situation.' The park, located more than an hour south of Portland, is known for its Trail of Ten Falls, a popular hiking route featuring 10 waterfalls. South Falls is one of the park’s most visited attractions, with a trail allowing visitors to walk behind the cascading water.
Authorities confirmed the victim was from out of state but did not specify his place of origin. The Oregon State Police and Silver Falls State Park staff are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fall. No further details about the investigation have been released as of this report.