Asbestos Falls
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Asbestos Falls
Asbestos (Asbestos Creek) Falls plunges through a steep gorge in the North Cascades within Mt. Baker National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls tumble on Asbestos Creek, a small tributary of Clear Creek just below the mouth of Helena Creek; estimates put the total drop somewhere between 500 and 1,000 feet. Many sources note the falls may drop around 1,000 feet in total, though only the lower ~500 feet are visible from the base because of the shape of the gorge, producing a dramatic, multi-stepped view where you can see powerful lower tiers spilling into the canyon. Access to the viewpoint is friendly for most hikers but more adventurous than a roadside stop. The official USFS route to the area is the Frog Lake Trail (Trail #659), and the trail corridor and surrounding lands are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The signed/recorded Frog Lake Trail is listed in USFS GIS at about 0.98 miles, while many guide descriptions put the common hike to the falls at roughly 1.2 miles with about 200 feet of elevation gain (out-and-back, rated easy). Note that Clear Creek Road has experienced numerous washouts in recent years, which can make the approach from the main road difficult; Clear Creek Campground is the nearest campground, about 3.72 km away. Wear sturdy footwear—the native-surface trail can be muddy and slippery in wet weather—and plan extra time for any rough road or trail conditions.
USFS Trail
FROG LAKE #659
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.98 miTrail Description
Frog Lake Trail (USFS Trail #659) — Surface: NAT (native material); USFS class: 3; Typical grade: 12–20%. USFS GIS lists the Frog Lake Trail at 0.98 miles; common hike descriptions put the route to Asbestos Falls at about 1.2 miles round trip with ~200 feet elevation gain. Trail type: out-and-back; difficulty: easy. The single-track winds through dense forest on a mostly native dirt tread and can become muddy or slippery after rain. Expect short steeper pitches consistent with the 12–20% grade and some route-finding where fallen debris or washouts occur; access can also be complicated by washouts along Clear Creek Road, so check current road conditions before you go.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a forested area leading to a beautiful waterfall. The falls are surrounded by moss-covered rocks and trees, creating a tranquil and scenic environment. The area is typically quiet and less crowded than other popular waterfalls in the region.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and potential obstacles.
Seasonal Closures
The trail is open year-round, but access may be limited during winter months due to snow or road closures.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as the rocks can be wet and unstable. Always stay on marked trails.
Location & Access
Getting There
Asbestos Falls is located near the Mountain Loop Highway in the North Cascades. To reach the falls, visitors typically take a short drive from Granite Falls, Washington. The trailhead is accessed via a forest road, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited parking is available near the trailhead. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved and potentially rough parking conditions.
Elevation
1175 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.186775° N, -121.574844° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or early summer for the best water flow. Bring sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy. Check road and trail conditions before heading out, especially in winter or after heavy rains.
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This easy 1.2 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Clear Creek Campground
2.3 miles away · 13 sites
Overview Clear Creek Campground is located just off the Mountain Loop Highway in the stunning Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Nestled in a towering canopy of fir trees, this campground offers plenty of open spaces, making it perfect for small groups and family excursions. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest sits on the west side of the Cascades in Washington, showcasing glacier-covered peaks, wide mountain meadows and old-growth forests, rich in history and outdoor opportunities.Recreation
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Darrington, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Asbestos Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Asbestos Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Asbestos Falls, as the water flow is typically at its peak during these seasons.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Big Four Ice Caves, Mount Pilchuck, and other waterfalls along the Mountain Loop Highway.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other larger animals in the region.
