LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Fisk Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Fisk Falls
Fisk Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in Washington, offering a serene and picturesque setting. It is surrounded by lush forest and is a great spot for nature enthusiasts seeking a quieter experience.
The Setting
Fisk Falls sits at 600 feet along the Chehalis River, in the foothills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out and back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Fisk Falls is a moderately challenging hike through dense forest. The path may include uneven terrain and some steep sections, making it suitable for hikers with moderate experience. The trail is not heavily trafficked, offering a peaceful experience.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The falls may have varying water flow depending on the season, with spring and early summer offering the most impressive views.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Fisk Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fisk Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have the strongest flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall and avoid getting too close to the edge. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
41 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
306.18 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHEHALIS RIVER NEAR DOTY, WA (13 km away).
Today
Roaring
47 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
49 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
46 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
46 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
48 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
56 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
52 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late November to late January, peaking in December.
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 Pe Ell 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 51 feet of drop through Fisk Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 587 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 47 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 56 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 587 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 51 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Fisk Falls is located in Washington state, but specific directions to the falls are not widely documented. Visitors may need to consult local hiking resources or maps for precise access details.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should expect limited or informal parking near the trailhead.
Hours
Elevation
600 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.502047° N, -123.287365° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to uneven terrain. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Check trail conditions before visiting, especially during wet seasons when the trail may be muddy.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 miles and 300 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
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Centralia
Timberland Inn & Suites
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chehalis - Centralia by IHG
Pitchwood 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
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Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Longview, Washington
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Longview, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other nearby hiking trails and waterfalls in Washington state may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Pacific Northwest wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Fisk Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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