Cowlitz Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Cowlitz Falls
Cowlitz Falls sits along the Cowlitz River in Lewis County, Washington, and is a striking example of a human-made cascade created by the Cowlitz Falls Hydroelectric Project. Rather than a natural drop, the falls are formed by dam operations and are best enjoyed from nearby viewpoints and recreation areas that frame the river and the engineered spillways. Because the falls are part of an active hydroelectric facility, recreational access can be intermittent—check local notices before you go. For those wanting a short hike and some river scenery, a 2.4-mile out-and-back route brings you into the vicinity with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate effort level. The nearest developed camping is Iron Creek Campground, about 10.06 km away, making Cowlitz Falls a good day-trip destination for photographers and families who want an easy to moderate outing without a long backcountry push.
The Setting
Cowlitz Falls sits at 866 feet along the Cowlitz River, in the foothills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Trail surface, grade, and class are not specified in the provided data. Visitors typically view the falls from designated viewpoints or nearby recreation areas; access may be limited at times due to the hydroelectric project, so check local access information before hiking.
What to Expect
Expect to see a man-made waterfall created by the Cowlitz Falls Dam. The area offers scenic views of the surrounding river and forested landscape. The falls are not natural but are still a point of interest for visitors exploring the region.
Accessibility
Accessibility details are unclear. The area may have limited accessibility due to its association with the hydroelectric project.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cowlitz Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cowlitz Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times to visit, as the weather is typically pleasant, and the surrounding area is lush and green.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the dam and river. Follow all posted signs and avoid restricted areas. Water levels and currents may be dangerous.
Current Water Conditions
647 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 78 years of record
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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge COWLITZ RIVER NEAR KOSMOS, WA (0 km away).
Today
Low
738 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
735 cfs
6/10Sun
Barely Flowing
692 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
721 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
754 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
795 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
763 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to late June, peaking in June.
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 Morton 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 74 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 865 feet.
The ground changes about 332 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 53 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 865 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 74 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cowlitz Falls is located near the town of Randle, Washington. Visitors can access the area by taking US-12 and following signs to the Cowlitz Falls Dam. The waterfall is part of the hydroelectric project and may be visible from nearby viewpoints.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Cowlitz Falls Dam area, but specific details about parking capacity or fees are not confirmed.
Elevation
866 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.465944° N, -122.107319° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check with local authorities or the hydroelectric project for access details before visiting. Bring binoculars or a camera to capture the scenic views. Be aware of restricted areas near the dam.
Where to Stay
Mountain Meadows Inn & Chalet Suites
Rainier Spa Cabin 7 Minutes to Park
Lafa Cabin - Luxe A Frame Retreat with Hot Tub, Sauna, Firepit- 5 Min to Mt Rainier
Blackberry Bunkhouse
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
Iron Creek Campground
6.3 miles away · 99 sites
Overview Iron Creek Campground sits near the confluence of Iron Creek and the Cispus River. This large campground winds through a forest of old-growth Douglas firs, cedars and hemlock. Lush vegetation and ample space between sites offers excellent privacy. Recreation Iron Creek provides great fishing for cutthroat trout, whitefish and rainbow trout. Visitors can stroll along the .3-mile Iron Creek Old Growth Trail and weave through the forest and along the Cispus River, or continue on a longer wa
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Mount Rainier National Park, Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and the town of Randle.
Wildlife
The area around the Cowlitz River is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and fish. Visitors may spot bald eagles or other bird species.
Cities near Cowlitz Falls
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