A 20-year-old male hiker lost his life in a tragic accident at Oregon’s Silver Falls State Park. The incident occurred after he fell from a 177-foot waterfall.
According to officials, the hiker was visiting from another state. He wandered off the designated trail to get closer to the top of the falls for a photo opportunity. This involved crossing a safety barrier and walking over a creek directly above South Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park. The fall occurred at the upper viewpoint of South Falls, which plunges into a significant pool below.
Park visitors witnessed the accident at approximately 6:30 p.m. They attempted to perform CPR until emergency personnel arrived. Unfortunately, the young man was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been publicly disclosed.
The regional manager of Silver Falls State Park, Chris Gilliand, described the incident as a ‘very tough situation’ and a ‘horrific accident.’
The Marion County Medical Examiner oversaw the release of the body to Marion County Search and Rescue, which managed the recovery. Unger Funeral Chapel subsequently took custody of the body.
Silver Falls State Park, located over an hour south of Portland, is famous for its Trail of Ten Falls. This hiking route showcases ten waterfalls, drawing visitors from within Oregon and further afield. South Falls, often referred to as the ‘crown jewel’ of Oregon’s state parks, is a major attraction.
Fox News Digital attempted to contact the Oregon State Police and Silver Falls State Park for further details.