Fern Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Fern Falls
Fern Falls is a quiet, moss-draped cascade tucked into the Coeur d'Alene National Forest near Kellogg, Idaho. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the falls sit in a lush forest setting that swells with runoff in spring and early summer, making for particularly photogenic flows and a serene place to linger. The approach follows the Shadow Falls route—USFS Trail SHADOW FALLS #513—so you’ll be hiking on a trail maintained and cataloged by the Forest Service as you descend into the fern-filled amphitheater. The hike to the falls rewards hikers with a peaceful woodland experience rather than a crowded attraction. If you’re planning an overnight stay, Big Hank Campground is the closest developed site, roughly 6.98 km away, offering convenient camping access to the area. Pack water and a camera and expect a short, scenic outing that’s popular with day hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Fern Falls sits at 3,228 feet within Coeur d'Alene National Forest, in the mountains of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Shadow Falls (#513), a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 400 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is highly developed (Class 4).
USFS Trail
SHADOW FALLS #513
Trail Class
Highly Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.13 miTrail Description
Shadow Falls (USFS Trail SHADOW FALLS, Trail #513) is a moderate out-and-back of about 2.5 miles with roughly 400 feet of elevation gain. According to USFS trail data the tread is native material (NAT), the trail is classified as Class 4, and typical grades run between 12–20%. USFS GIS records also list a 0.13-mile GIS segment for the trail. The path is generally well-marked but can include uneven surfaces and minor stream crossings; overall the route is rated moderate in difficulty and is best suited for hikers comfortable with short steep sections on natural tread.
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 Fern Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fern Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Fern Falls is in late spring or early summer when the water flow is strongest, and the surrounding vegetation is lush and vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Coeur d'Alene National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and avoid climbing on them. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can become hazardous during heavy rain or snow.
Current Water Conditions
73 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 75 years of record
1.06 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 NF COEUR D ALENE R AB SHOSHONE CK NR PRICHARD ID (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
79 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
83 cfs
4/10Thu
Barely Flowing
77 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
74 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early 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 Kellogg 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 194 feet of drop through Fern Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 3,235 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 104 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 219 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,235 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 194 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Fern Falls is located approximately 12.5 miles from Kellogg, Idaho. To access the trailhead, visitors typically drive along Forest Service roads. The exact route may vary depending on current road conditions, so checking with the Idaho Panhandle National Forests office for updated directions is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
3,228 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.759920° N, -116.104896° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, and carry plenty of water. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.5 miles and 400 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
Stardust Motel Wallace
The Brooks Hotel Restaurant and Lounge
Lakeside Cabin
FairBridge Inn & Suites Kellogg
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
BIG HANK
4.3 miles away · 30 sites
Overview Big Hank Campground is located along the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River in Idaho Panhandle National Forest. Shore fishing is a large draw, along with local hiking and biking trails. The campground also provides an excellent base camp for hunters during season. Wildlife like mule deer, moose, osprey and calliope hummingbirds are often spotted.Recreation Tubing on the river is a popular summertime activity, as is cutthroat fishing. Whitewater rafting enthusiasts enjoy the class I-II
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg and the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, a scenic biking and walking trail.
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 during active seasons.
Cities near Fern Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Fern Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Fern Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.