Drury Falls
Washington • 620 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Drury Falls
Tucked into the Cascade peaks of Washington and managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Wenatchee National Forest, Drury Falls is a remote, dramatic cascade plunging roughly 620 feet. The falls are best appreciated from distance where the steep amphitheater and rushing water read like a classic mountain spectacle; getting up close demands route-finding and a willingness to tackle rugged terrain. Despite its remoteness, the setting rewards visitors with dense forest, seasonal flow variation, and a true backcountry feel that hikers and photographers prize. Locally, approaches are typically treated as a moderate outing rather than an easy roadside stop: the commonly used route is about 2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back) with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Camping is available nearby — Icicle Group Campground sits about 7.23 km from the falls — making it possible to combine an overnight stay with an early or late visit when lighting and water levels are often best. Note that while viewpoints are reachable on the established approach, reaching the waterfall’s base requires off-trail travel and steep scrambling, so plan accordingly and follow Leave No Trace principles.
The Setting
Drury Falls sits at 4,626 feet within Wenatchee National Forest, fed by the Icicle Creek, in the mountains of Washington. At 620 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Washington.
Height: 620 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Approach: approximately 2.4 miles (out-and-back) with ~350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. Reported waterfall height is about 620 feet. The available USFS data do not list a specific trail name or number for a maintained route directly to the fall, nor do they specify surface, grade, or formal trail class for the final descent. Hikers can expect forested mountain terrain on the approach within Wenatchee National Forest; getting to the base of the falls requires off-trail navigation through steep, rugged slopes and is not recommended for most visitors.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 620 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Drury Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Drury Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Drury Falls, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Wenatchee National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The terrain around Drury Falls is steep and rugged. Visitors should not attempt to hike to the base without proper experience and equipment. Parking along Highway 2 can be hazardous due to traffic, so exercise caution.
Current Water Conditions
1,600 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 67 years of record
7.27 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Drury Falls is located near the town of Leavenworth, Washington, along Highway 2. The waterfall is visible from the highway, but accessing it up close requires navigating rugged terrain and is not recommended for inexperienced hikers.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available along Highway 2, but there is no designated parking lot for Drury Falls. Visitors should exercise caution when parking along the highway.
Elevation
4626 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.636779° N, -120.746600° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to get a better view of the falls from the highway. Avoid attempting to hike to the base unless you are an experienced off-trail hiker with proper equipment.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
FairBridge Inn & Suites Leavenworth
Linderhof Inn
Bavarian Lodge
Enzian Inn
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
ICICLE GROUP CAMPGROUND
4.5 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Nestled in a forest canopy of pine and fir on the banks of Icicle Creek, Icicle Group Campground in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers a peaceful setting for groups and large gatherings.Recreation Icicle Group Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, bike and enjoy a long list of outdoor recreational activities throughout the year. This campground has plenty of trails to explore by bike. Anglers may want to cast a line into the deep pools at nearby Toke
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Leavenworth, Washington on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed town, is located nearby and offers various recreational and dining options. The Wenatchee River and other hiking trails in the Cascade Mountains are also in the area.
Wildlife
The area around Drury Falls is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other larger animals in the region.
Cities near Drury Falls
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