Benham Falls

In the world of Benham Falls, there is a great diversity of approaches, ideas and opinions that can generate an extremely enriching exchange of knowledge. This is why it is crucial to delve deeper into the different aspects surrounding this topic, in order to understand its impact on today's society. From its origins to its future implications, Benham Falls has become a point of interest for academics, professionals and the general public. Through this article, we will seek to explore the various facets of Benham Falls and its relevance in the contemporary world, offering new perspectives and reflections that contribute to the enrichment of the debate around this transcendental topic.

Benham Falls
Map
Location3.5 miles north of Sunriver, Oregon
Coordinates43°56′15″N 121°24′44″W / 43.93750°N 121.41222°W / 43.93750; -121.41222[1]
TypeCascade
Elevation4,153 ft (1,266 m)[1]
Total height25 ft (7.6 m)
Total width40 ft (12 m)

Benham Falls are rapids of the Deschutes River located between the resort community of Sunriver and the town of Bend, Oregon, United States. With a pitch of 22.5°, they are rated Class 5 for watercraft, and are the largest falls on the upper Deschutes.

The falls were created by the eruption of nearby Lava Butte approximately 6,000 years ago, as the lava flow dammed the Deschutes, forming a lake known as Lake Benham.[2] The river eventually flowed over the dam, draining the lake and thus forming Benham Falls. Around 1885, J. R. Benham attempted and failed to file a land claim near the falls, though they were later named for him.[3]

Today, there are forest roads connecting Benham Falls to Lava Butte, Lava River Cave, and Sunriver Resort. A footbridge connects the forest road to an easy-to-navigate trail near the river and falls.[4] The shady area has much wildlife and flowers.[2] Because of this, the area also has mosquitoes. The United States Forest Service has established a few lookouts over the gorge for viewers. Hikers and mountain bikers who continue on this trail pass Dillon Falls, Lava Island Falls, and eventually, the city of Bend. Benham Falls is relatively easier to see compared to the falls downstream, because it is not surrounded by lava flow from Lava Butte, but surrounded by forest. Because of its location, it is also much more popular.

Benham Falls is also in the Deschutes National Forest and the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Benham Falls Recreation Site and Benham Falls West Recreation Site are located nearby.

References

  1. ^ a b "Benham Falls". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior. Retrieved 2009-12-31.
  2. ^ a b Benham Falls Archived October 5, 2008, at the Wayback Machine in Sunriver Magazine
  3. ^ Benham Falls on Waterfallsnorthwest.com
  4. ^ Benham Falls Trail Archived 2012-10-14 at the Wayback Machine on Trails.com.