Fish Ladder Falls

Washington

Gifford Pinchot National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

vanherdehaage CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Northwest Rafting Company CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

vanherdehaage CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

jenn2d2 CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Fish Ladder Falls

Fish Ladder Falls is a small but fascinating waterfall tucked into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The cascade is named for the adjacent fish ladder system that helps salmon and other migratory fish move upstream; the falls aren’t tall, but their close integration with that infrastructure makes the site especially interesting to wildlife watchers and photographers. Access to the viewing area ties into the USFS Cowlitz Horse Trail (Trail #44A), so the feel is forested and natural rather than developed. If you’re planning an overnight stay, La Wis Wis Campground sits about 6.9 km away, offering a convenient base for exploring the falls and nearby trails.

USFS Trail

COWLITZ HORSE #44A

Trail Class

Developed

Surface

Nat Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

0.09 mi

Trail Description

The route to Fish Ladder Falls uses a short USFS-managed segment on the Cowlitz Horse Trail (Trail #44A). That USFS trail segment is native-surface (NAT), rated Class 3 with typical grades of 12–20% and a mapped GIS length of about 0.09 miles, so expect uneven tread and some steeper, scrambly sections. The full outing is typically done as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, a moderate difficulty overall. Hikers should be prepared for natural tread and short steep pitches rather than paved, fully accessible pathways.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect to see a unique combination of natural and man-made features. The falls are integrated with the fish ladder system, allowing a close-up view of fish navigating upstream. The area also offers educational displays about the salmon migration and the dam's impact on the ecosystem.

Accessibility

The trail to the falls and fish ladder is paved and wheelchair accessible.

Seasonal Closures

The area may have limited access during extreme weather or maintenance at the Bonneville Dam. Check ahead for updates.

Safety Information

Stay on designated paths and viewing platforms. Do not attempt to enter the water near the falls or fish ladder, as currents can be strong and dangerous.

Location & Access

Getting There

Fish Ladder Falls is located near the Bonneville Dam in the Columbia River Gorge. Visitors can access the area via Interstate 84, exiting at Bonneville Dam. Follow signs to the visitor center and fish ladder viewing area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Bonneville Dam Visitor Center, which provides access to the falls and fish ladder.

Elevation

2779 feet above sea level

Coordinates

46.707335° N, -121.511476° W

Land Management

Gifford Pinchot National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit during the salmon migration season (spring and fall) for the best chance to see fish using the ladder. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the fish and the surrounding wildlife.

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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.

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

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

La Wis Wis Campground

4.3 miles away · 113 sites

Reservable

Overview Situated at the confluence of three waterways near Mount Rainier, La Wis Wis is nestled under a canopy of towering Douglas firs and red cedars. The handful of sites that dot the riverbank enjoy the most sunshine. With an abundance of activities nearby, La Wis Wis is a popular destination for long-stay camping. Its proximity to Mount Rainier National Park makes it an excellent base for exploring all of the area's natural wonders. Recreation Hikers can easily access the Blue Hole Trail and

Book on Recreation.gov