The Oregon state government is working urgently to purchase the 40-acre property of Abiqua Falls to ensure that the public can continue to enjoy and use the falls, which are currently for sale by the Abbey Foundation. Abiqua Falls is a privately-owned popular hiking spot east of Salem.

Although there is a strong, bipartisan effort to keep the property public and accessible to everyone, the falls are still listed for public sale, meaning anyone can buy them. This means that, theoretically, any private developer or individual buyer could purchase the land, potentially ending public access forever. Standing at an impressive 92 feet tall, these falls have been an extraordinary natural wonder beloved by many generations of Oregonians for over a century, but now they face an uncertain future.

It is important to note that the Benedictine Monks from Mount Angel Abbey have been keeping the property well-maintained and open to hikers for over 100 years. The agreement to maintain the falls was a handshake agreement, with the Abbey only asking for respect for the land in return, according to the Statesman Journal. For the past 10 years, the Abbey has been proactively trying to transfer the property into the government’s control, but they’ve struggled to get a formal bill passed through the legislature. In recent years, the Abbey has also faced increasing challenges regarding high-volume tourism and significant littering throughout the property. Because of these management burdens, a sale to a conservation-minded buyer is a well-timed and necessary transition for the Abbey Foundation of Oregon.

Amanda Staggenborg, representative of the Abbey, said to the Statesman Journal, “Really, it was just time. We knew it wasn’t a situation that could last forever. It’s time for the land to be protected under new ownership who can better serve the public interest.”

Despite the jarring reality of the falls being publicly listed, there is still hope. Both political parties in the Oregon Senate have been working overtime to find a viable way to purchase the property. Originally, the Abbey wanted to sell the land directly to the Oregon government to keep it public, but the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and state agencies initially struggled to secure the necessary funds, according to the Statesman Journal. After a decade of waiting, the Abbey made the bold move to post the land on Redfin. This listing caused a wave of panic among both the Oregon Senate and Oregon citizens. However, that panic has turned into productivity. Now, both political parties are coming together in a rare show of unity to fight for the falls.

Ben Bowman, the Democratic House Majority Leader representing Tigard, commented on his partnership with Senator Fred Girod, a Republican representing Stayton.

“I’m a Democrat in the House; he is a Republican in the Senate, but we are totally aligned on this issue, so it made for a great opportunity for us to work together to protect something beautiful.”

Considering the falls’ proximity to Tualatin High School (TuHS), the potential closing hits especially close to home for the local community. Located just under an hour’s drive away, the Falls have long served as a sanctuary for teenagers looking for a break from suburbia. Whether it’s a last-minute summer hike with friends to escape the heat or a backdrop for graduation photos, Abiqua Falls has always been an easy day trip for TuHS students.

Senior Liam Song, co-president of the Nature Club, shared his perspective on the situation.

“While I understand the importance of protecting Abiqua Falls, making it private could reduce access for Tualatin High School students who love outdoor activities. Experiencing nature helps students develop respect for wildlife and the environment. Protection is essential, but so is keeping outdoor space accessible in a responsible way.”

For many students, the idea of losing the falls is truly devastating. To lose this land would mean more than just losing a trail; it would mean losing a secluded hike, stunning views and a picturesque atmosphere that has become a core part of the Oregon experience.