Elk Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Elk Creek Falls
Nestled within Idaho's St. Joe National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Elk Creek Falls is a dramatic trio of cascades—Upper, Middle, and Lower—that tumble over dark basalt formations in a lush, cedar-and-fir valley. Each drop offers a distinct perspective: approachable ledges and viewpoints let you linger over the misty upper tiers, while the Lower Falls provides the most dramatic, close-up experience. The falls together create an impressive series of drops that reward photographers and nature lovers alike. The setting is quietly remote yet accessible, making Elk Creek Falls a popular day hike for visitors to the St. Joe National Forest. If you want to extend your visit, Elk Creek Campground (Clearwater NF) sits about 6.19 km away, offering a convenient basecamp. The U.S. Forest Service maintains trail access and signs in the area, so plan for changing conditions and bring layers—the canyon can be decidedly cooler and damper than surrounding ridgelines.
The Setting
Elk Creek Falls sits at 2,556 feet within St. Joe National Forest, in the hills of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Elk Creek Falls is a moderate 3.5-mile out-and-back maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain. The path winds through a dense cedar and fir forest and leads to separate viewpoints for the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. Expect a well-defined singletrack with some steep sections and stairs—especially on the descent to the Lower Falls—so sturdy footwear is recommended. The USFS characterizes this route as a moderate-grade day hike; there is no USFS trail number provided in the available data. Overnight options are nearby at Elk Creek Campground (about 6.19 km away) for those wanting to turn the trip into a multi-day outing.
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 Elk Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Elk Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is in late spring or early summer when water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall is also a great time to visit for colorful foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with St. Joe National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 45°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the edges of the viewing platforms and trails, as they can be slippery. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or encountering hazardous areas.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Clearwater River, 18.2 miles away, not on Elk Creek Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
1,580 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 70 years of record
2.70 ft
Water depth at gauge
45°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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. Water temperature is very cold at 45 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CLEARWATER RIVER AT OROFINO ID (29 km away).
Today
Moderate
1706 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1699 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
1547 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
1719 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
1769 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
1748 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
1801 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early July, 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 Elk River hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Elk Creek Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately big river, rarely freezes solid
Elk Creek Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 61°F to 41°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 1580 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Idaho.
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 244 feet of descent through Elk Creek Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 2,563 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 219 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 73 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,563 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 244 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
Elk Creek Falls is located approximately 2 miles southeast of Elk River, Idaho. From Elk River, follow the signs to the Elk Creek Falls Recreation Area. The trailhead is well-marked and accessible via a gravel road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at the Elk Creek Falls trailhead, which can accommodate several vehicles. Parking is free, but it may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,556 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.736242° N, -116.174263° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Bug spray is recommended during summer months.
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With 3.5 miles and 500 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.
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.
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.
Where to Stay
Best Western Lodge at River's Edge
Konkolville Motel
Peaceful Deary Vacation Rental w/ Deck & Views!
Moose Hollow Family 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
ELK CREEK CAMPGROUND (CLEARWATER NF)
3.8 miles away · 13 sites
Overview Elk Creek Campground offers visitors a little bit of everything. From scenic views and vistas, to attractive waterfalls and ancient foliage, the campground provides a great place to stay in the mountains of north central Idaho. Recreational opportunities abound in the area and a variety of services are located nearby.Recreation Elk Creek and nearby Elk River Reservoir provide visitors with opportunities for fishing and other water-related recreation. Cutthroat and rainbow trout, chinook
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near St. Maries, Idaho
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near St. Maries, Idaho on SoakingSprings.
Explore Idaho springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Elk River Falls, Elk River Reservoir, and the town of Elk River, which offers small shops and dining options.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other bird species near the water.
Cities near Elk Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Elk Creek Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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