Crown Point Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Trail Length
1.1 miles
About Crown Point Falls
Crown Point Falls is a lesser-known waterfall tucked inside Washington’s Wenatchee National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The cascade offers a peaceful, scenic stop for hikers who prefer quieter trails — it’s most commonly reached via the USFS Crown Mine Trail (Trail #1256.51), which provides a compact outing through forested public land. The approach to the falls is an accessible day hike suitable for moderate hikers: the route is commonly listed as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain. Follow signage for Crown Mine/Trail #1256.51 on USFS maps, and plan for a moderate-paced outing to enjoy the falls without a long drive back to trailheads or camp.
The Setting
Crown Point Falls sits at 5,167 feet within Wenatchee National Forest, fed by the Stehekin River, in the high mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Crown Mine (#1256.51), a 1.1-mile out-and-back trail over n/a.
USFS Trail
CROWN MINE #1256.51
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.11 miTrail Description
USFS-designated route: Crown Mine (Trail #1256.51). USFS data classifies the trail as Class: N; surface and typical grade are not specified in the USFS record. The agency’s GIS measures the trail at approximately 1.11 miles (one-way), while common hiking listings describe the outing as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty is generally rated moderate. Hikers should expect a short, moderate climb and a straightforward out-and-back route on USFS-managed land within Wenatchee National Forest.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with views of the waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Washington.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Crown Point Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Crown Point Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have higher flow due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Wenatchee National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Always stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the waterfall edge.
Current Water Conditions
246 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 104 years of record
18.76 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge STEHEKIN RIVER AT STEHEKIN, WA (21 km away).
Today
Roaring
251 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
244 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
237 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
250 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
264 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
253 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
229 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late July, 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 Darrington 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 300 feet of descent through Crown Point Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 5,183 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 22 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 426 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,183 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 300 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Crown Point Falls is located in Washington state, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or trail resources for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider arriving early during peak seasons.
Elevation
5,167 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.198362° N, -120.895985° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially muddy or uneven trails. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain may make trails slippery.
Where to Stay
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
Nineteenmile Campground
12.8 miles away · 0 sites
Located along the Chiwawa River, 22 miles from Lake Wenatchee, this campground offers river access.
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Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and hiking trails in Washington state parks or national forests may be nearby.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Pacific Northwest wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Crown Point Falls
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