Douglass Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Douglass Falls
Douglass Falls is a peaceful, picture-postcard cascade tucked into Washington’s forested hillsides. The falls are framed by dense evergreens and mossy rock, making it a lovely spot for a short outing or nature photography. This is a popular local destination for hikers and families looking for a quiet escape into the woods without committing to a long backcountry trek. The hike to the waterfall is approachable and rewarding: the out-and-back route covers about 2.5 miles round-trip with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain, and is rated easy. The trail stays relatively gentle as it follows a creek, offering the calming sounds of running water and dappled sunlight through the canopy—perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon walk.
The Setting
Douglass Falls sits at 1,804 feet along the Colville River, in the hills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 300 feet of total elevation gain and an easy difficulty rating. The well-maintained route features gentle inclines and follows a creek through forested terrain, making it suitable for most hikers and families. Expect short root- and rock-stepped sections typical of wooded footpaths and easy navigation to the falls.
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 Douglass Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Douglass 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 and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail and access roads may become hazardous during heavy rain or snow.
Current Water Conditions
59 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 102 years of record
5.18 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 COLVILLE RIVER AT KETTLE FALLS, WA (12 km away).
Today
Low
67 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
64 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
59 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
63 cfs
3/10Thu
Barely Flowing
61 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid June, peaking in April.
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 Colville 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 84 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,820 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 40 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 27 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, 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
- 1,820 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 84 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Douglass Falls is located near Colville, Washington, within the Colville National Forest. Access is typically via forest roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,804 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.613733° N, -117.899329° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends to secure parking. Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Check road conditions before visiting, as forest roads can be challenging during wet or snowy weather.
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This easy 2.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn Colville
Selkirk Motel
China Bend Winery Bed and Breakfast
Gardenview Estate Bed and Breakfast
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
KETTLE FALLS LOCUST GROVE GROUP SITE
10 miles away · 2 sites
Overview Kettle Falls Locust Grove Group Site is on the northern section of Lake Roosevelt and convenient to the town of Kettle Falls. The facility is 0.25 miles away from the main Kettle Falls Campground, which has a multi-lane boat launch. It is popular for groups of boaters, fishermen and water sports enthusiasts. The Kettle Falls area is rich in history of American Indians as well as the fur trade; campers can learn more at a park visitor center less than 10 miles away. Lake Roosevelt is a 13
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Colville National Forest and other hiking trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking in remote areas.
Cities near Douglass Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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