Moon Falls — Attraction in Cottage Grove

Moon Falls looks her best in the Spring, Fall and Winter months. That’s when she’s a sight to behold. Cold water flowing strong, rushing down over that dark rock face, crashing down over the lower shelf before continuing down around the boulders and river rocks. The moss that covers much of the front is a beautiful brilliant green. The water flow drops significantly in the summer. She’s still pretty, but much more subdued.

There’s one picnic table, but no bathroom or trash cans. Please be sure to leave no trace and that includes properly disposing of TP. In the past the area around the parking was littered with used TP. Not the first thing you want to see when you get there.

For those who like a challenge and want a unique view, hike up along the left side of the falls. It’s very steep and the soil/rock is loose, so it’s not recommended for kids or city boys LOL!...

A little hard to get to (don’t use gps!) but worth it! Best directions are: take cottage grove exit 174 head East on Row River Road past milepost 4 continue straight onto Shoreview Dr. (Row River Road splits off to the left - Shoreview Dr. rejoins Row River Road in another 6 miles) past milepost 19 Row River ends, turn left onto Layng Creek Rd about 9 miles later you’ll find a rest area with signs for moon and Pinard falls.

The drive is mildly pot-holey, so take it slow. Parking lot is teensy ( maybe 4 cars). Super easy hike (our 3 year old did it in a pair of vans. When the trail ends go to the left / waterfall. Definitely walk up the steep slope at the waterfall and you’ll get up behind the fall. It’s so cool! My 8 year old took us up there and I probably wouldn’t have gone if he...

This place is amazing! It's a tad bit off the beaten path so you don't have to contend with lots of other people. The trail is well maintained and easy to navigate. The sights & sounds awaiting you are phenomenal! There is one picnic table at the falls and two at the trailhead. There aren't any public bathrooms of any kind. This Falls is gorgeous & breathtaking with ample photo ops. There are some great flat spaces further down from the falls that provide a nice area to spread a blanket & have a nice picnic. Pack out your own garbage & don't leave any kind of waste behind. Let's keep...