LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Castile Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Castile Falls
Castile Falls is a series of scenic, cascading tiers on the Lewis River in Washington, prized by photographers and day-hikers for its layered drop and forested setting. The falls sit within the Yakama Nation Reservation (land unit managed by TRIB; land owner: DESG; designation: TRIB), so visitors should be mindful that they are exploring tribal lands and check any local access guidance before visiting. The channel of cascades and mossy rock ledges make for dramatic photos, especially after seasonal runoff. Approach to the falls is a pleasant, moderate outing that rewards a relatively short effort with multiple viewpoints of the tiers. The nearest developed campground in the provided data is Walupt Lake Campground, roughly 25.8 km away, so most visitors treat Castile Falls as a day hike rather than a campground-access destination.
The Setting
Castile Falls sits at 2,657 feet within Yakama Nation Reservation, fed by the Klickitat River, in the hills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Castile Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.5 miles round-trip with about 300 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The path follows a forested route with a steady, moderate grade and offers several vantage points overlooking the cascading tiers. Terrain and footing can be uneven and natural (roots, rocks, and leaf litter), so sturdy footwear and basic trail navigation are recommended. No USFS trail number or surface/class data were provided in the supplied information.
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 Castile Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Castile Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is typically at its peak due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery and the water currents are strong. Cell phone service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
71 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 68 years of record
1.10 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge KLICKITAT RIVER ABOVE WEST FORK NEAR GLENWOOD, WA (1 km away).
Today
Roaring
71 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
71 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
71 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
77 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
74 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
71 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
71 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Glenwood hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 121 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,658 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 152 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 89 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,658 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 121 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Castile Falls is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington. Access is typically via Forest Road 90, with a short drive to a parking area near the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,657 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.255122° N, -121.241186° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
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With 2.5 miles and 300 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Harry Potter and the Scenic Escape
The Ahtanum Cottage - hot tub and views
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Walupt Lake Campground
16.1 miles away · 42 sites
Overview Walupt Lake Campground offers scenic views of Mt. Adams and the surrounding forest on the west end of Walupt Lake. The sites here provide plenty of privacy and ample shade form the surrounding hemlock, cedar and fir trees. Walupt Lake Campground is a great choice for visitors looking to fish, swim, boat or explore the numerous hiking, biking and horseback riding trails in the area. Recreation Anglers can fish for brook, rainbow and cutthroat trout in Walupt Lake. Swimming and the use of
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Lower Lewis River Falls and Middle Lewis River Falls, which are also accessible via trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and other larger animals.
Cities near Castile Falls
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