Is swimming allowed at Bear Creek Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Bear Creek Falls.

Live Conditions · 49 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Bear Creek Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Bear Creek Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Bear Creek Falls.

Washington • Olympic National Park

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Photo Credits (5)

W. Tipton CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

BLM Oregon & Washington CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Bear Creek Falls

Bear Creek Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the temperate forests of Olympic National Park. The falls spill into a rocky pool framed by lush green vegetation and moss-covered stone, creating an intimate, photogenic setting that rewards visitors who make the short trek in. Managed as part of Olympic National Park, the site offers classic Pacific Northwest scenery—towering conifers, ferns, and dappled light—that make the approach as enjoyable as the waterfall itself. The route to the falls is a manageable outing: a 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, typically rated moderate. The trail threads steadily uphill through forested terrain before opening onto the cascade, making this a satisfying half-day hike for most moderately fit visitors. The nearest developed campground is Klahowya Campground, about 17.7 km away for those planning an extended visit.

The Setting

Bear Creek Falls sits at 745 feet within Olympic National Park, fed by the Hoko River, in the foothills of Washington.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 2.4 miles (round trip). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. The path follows forested terrain within Olympic National Park, gaining elevation steadily without sustained steep pitches before reaching the waterfall. Surface, grade, and official trail class data are not provided for this route; the trail is managed by Olympic National Park (NPS).

What to Expect

Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bear Creek Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $5.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Bear Creek Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Olympic National Park for current conditions.

Safety Information

The rocks near the falls can be slippery, so exercise caution. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry essentials like water and a first aid kit.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Barely Flowing

49 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

54 74 167 271

Based on 45 years of record

1.05 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

HOKO RIVER NEAR SEKIU, WA

USGS 12043300

8.2 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 51 sq mi

Altitude: 37 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sekiu hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Bear Creek Falls is located near the town of Stehekin in the North Cascades National Park Complex. Access typically requires a combination of driving, hiking, or taking a ferry to Stehekin, followed by a short hike to the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited depending on the season. Visitors may need to plan ahead, especially during peak times.

Elevation

745 feet above sea level

Coordinates

48.128966° N, -124.330215° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls can be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Klahowya Campground

11.0 miles away · 0 sites

Adjacent to the south shore of the Sol Duc River, the rain forest setting hosts an accessible interpretive nature trail, fishing, picnicking, and trails to explore the natural beauty. During the summer when the river is low water, there is tubing or float run between the 'Day Use' areas next to Sites 9 and 45.Interpretive programs are presented in the amphitheater during the summer.

Book on Recreation.gov