Curly Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Curly Creek Falls
Curly Creek Falls is a unique waterfall located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington. It is notable for its natural rock arch formations through which the water flows, creating a stunning and rare geological feature. The falls are surrounded by lush forest, making it a picturesque destination for nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Curly Creek Falls sits at 1,270 feet within Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fed by the Lewis River, in the foothills of Washington.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Middle Falls (265 ft) lies 9.2 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Lower Falls (43 ft, 8.0 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Curly/Miller Falls (#31A), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over imported compacted material. The trail is fully developed (Class 5).
USFS Trail
CURLY/MILLER FALLS #31A
Trail Class
Fully Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.34 miTrail Description
The trail to Curly Creek Falls is short and well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. It winds through a forested area and leads to a viewpoint where the falls can be observed. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Curly Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Curly Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Gifford Pinchot National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the viewpoint, as the area may be slippery. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment or putting yourself at risk.
Current Water Conditions
186 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 44 years of record
1.00 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge LEWIS RIVER ABOVE MUDDY RIVER NEAR COUGAR, WA (1 km away).
Today
Moderate
212 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
194 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
190 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
187 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
197 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
206 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
205 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid June, peaking in May.
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 Cougar 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 86 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,268 feet.
The ground changes about 32 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 67 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,268 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 86 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Curly Creek Falls is located off Forest Road 90 in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The trailhead is accessible by car, and the falls are a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,270 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.058169° N, -121.972031° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or early summer for the best water flow. Bring a camera to capture the unique rock formations. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
Where to Stay
Lone Fir Resort
4-Bedroom Chateau in Southern Washington- Luxurious Retreat with Pond & Creek
Explore Mt St Helens A-Frame Chalet with Deck!
Riverfront Woodland Cabin: Wooded & Forested 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
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Nearby Campground
Paradise Creek campground
7.7 miles away · 42 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Lower Lewis River Falls and the Ape Caves, both of which are also located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other larger animals in the forest.
Cities near Curly Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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