Devil Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Devil Creek Falls
Devil Creek Falls is a peaceful, forested cascade tucked into Washington’s Snoqualmie National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls sit along Devil Creek and are reached via a short but rewarding hike; the most commonly used approach is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs about 350 feet and is rated moderate. USFS maps also reference the nearby SWAMP CREEK SNOWMOBILE trail (Trail #SNO-1706), which is part of the same Forest trail network and noted in agency GIS data. The setting is classic Pacific Northwest—lush evergreens, mossy logs and the steady sound of running water—making the falls a great destination for photographers and day hikers looking for a quick nature escape. If you plan to stay nearby, Sawmill Flat Campground is about 2.08 km away and provides a convenient basecamp. Trails can get muddy or slippery after rain, so bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for a moderately paced climb through the woods.
The Setting
Devil Creek Falls sits at 2,930 feet within Snoqualmie National Forest, fed by the American River, in the hills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Swamp Creek Snowmobile (#SNO-1706), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over n/a.
USFS Trail
SWAMP CREEK SNOWMOBILE #SNO-1706
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
8.88 miTrail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 ft. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: Out-and-back. USFS trail reference: SWAMP CREEK SNOWMOBILE, Trail #SNO-1706 (Class: N). Surface and typical grade: N/A per USFS data. GIS miles listed for the USFS trail record: 8.88 miles. Nearest campground: Sawmill Flat Campground ~2.08 km away. Note: tread can be muddy and slippery after rain—sturdy, water-resistant footwear recommended.
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 Devil Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Devil Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, 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 Snoqualmie National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains. Carry a map or GPS device if exploring further into the area.
Current Water Conditions
40 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
71.93 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge AMERICAN RIVER NEAR NILE, WA (5 km away).
Today
Roaring
41 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
40 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
41 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
44 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
41 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
40 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
39 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid 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 Cliffdell 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 shows Devil Creek Falls dropping about 160 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 2,927 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 63 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 112 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, 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
- 2,927 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 160 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Devil Creek Falls is located near the North Cascades region of Washington. Access is typically via Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway), with the falls situated near the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. Specific directions may vary depending on the starting point, so consulting a map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at nearby pullouts or designated areas along Highway 20. Availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,930 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.956924° N, -121.105032° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or early summer for the best water flow. Bring sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or holidays.
Where to Stay
4008 Cozy ONE Bedroom in Suncadia with Heated Pool Access
Suncadia Resort Luxury Suite with Amazing Mountain Views
Secluded Greenwater Cabin with Loft Near Rainier
The Cabin
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
SAWMILL FLAT CAMPGROUND
1.3 miles away · 24 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Diablo Lake, and the North Cascades National Park are all nearby and worth exploring.
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 region.
Cities near Devil Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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