Cavern Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Cavern Falls
Cavern Falls is a tucked-away cascade set within San Juan County’s Cypress Island Marine Biological Preserve, a designated MPA. The falls drop into a small pool framed by lush, forested slopes, creating a peaceful spot to rest and listen to running water. This site is on land owned by DESG and managed under the preserve by OTHS, so visitors should be mindful of local protections and leave-no-trace practices while enjoying the scenery. The approach feels intimate rather than grand — a short, wooded walk that rewards hikers with a quiet swimming-sized pool and the gentle roar of the falls. Because the waterfall sits inside a marine preserve, the setting often feels removed from crowded recreation areas, making it a lovely choice for an easy nature outing or a short photo stop on a longer day of exploring the San Juan County islands.
The Setting
Cavern Falls sits at 604 feet within San Juan County/Cypress Island Marine Biological Preserve, fed by the Chuckanut Creek, in the foothills 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 access route to Cavern Falls is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. The path is described as well-marked, weaving through dense forest with a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines; expect some muddy or slippery spots after rain. Official USFS-specific trail surface, grade, and class data are not provided for this route, so hikers should plan for natural tread and typical backcountry footing rather than a hardened or graded trail.
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 Cavern Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cavern Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS device as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 16.2 miles away
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 4 years of record
14.06 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHUCKANUT CREEK NEAR BELLINGHAM, WA (26 km away).
Today
Roaring
2 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
1 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
1 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
2 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid March, peaking in December.
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 Roche Harbor 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 107 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 608 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 55 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 18 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 608 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 107 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cavern Falls is located within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and require a high-clearance vehicle during certain seasons.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
604 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.648379° N, -122.829187° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and slippery in places. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail more challenging.
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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.
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
Otter's Pond Bed and Breakfast
The Landmark Inn on Orcas Island
Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping
Majestic Inn and Spa
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.
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Blind Island
6.6 miles away · 0 sites
You made it to a designated site along the Cascadia Marine Trail, our Nation's longest recreation water trail! Blind Island is a small, three-acre marine camping park located on the north side of Shaw Island. All of the campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and are for the exclusive use of boaters arriving by human or wind-powered watercraft. Recreational activities include camping, picnicking, non-motorized boating, and wildlife watching. The BLM cooperatively manages the are
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, such as Panther Creek Falls and Falls Creek Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other larger animals.
Cities near Cavern Falls
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