LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Foggy Dew Falls
Foggy Dew Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington. It is part of the Foggy Dew Creek and is known for its serene surroundings and proximity to the Foggy Dew Trail, which leads to other scenic areas in the forest.
The Setting
Foggy Dew Falls sits at 4,249 feet within Okanogan National Forest, fed by the Methow River, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Foggy Dew (#417), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over n/a. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of N/A.
USFS Trail
FOGGY DEW #417
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
4.67 miTrail Description
The trail to Foggy Dew Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a forested area. The path is well-maintained and follows Foggy Dew Creek, offering scenic views and the sound of rushing water. The waterfall itself is a beautiful cascade surrounded by lush greenery.
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 Foggy Dew Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Foggy Dew Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is most impressive during these seasons due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Okanogan National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery when wet, and the creek can be fast-moving during spring runoff. Exercise caution near the water and stay on marked trails. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge METHOW RIVER NEAR PATEROS, WA (24 km away).
Today
Roaring
313 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
313 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
313 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
338 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
326 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
313 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
313 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Methow 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 155 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 4,286 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 83 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 25 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
- 4,286 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 155 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
Foggy Dew Falls is accessed via the Foggy Dew Trailhead, located off Forest Road 4340 near the town of Carlton, Washington. The trailhead is well-marked, and the road is typically accessible by most vehicles during the snow-free months.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area at the Foggy Dew Trailhead. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
4,249 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.169312° N, -120.278650° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in spring or early summer for the best water flow. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy in places. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
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This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Twisp River Suites
AbbyCreek Inn
Chewuch Inn & Cabins
River's Edge Resort
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
Graham Harbor Campground
11.4 miles away · 0 sites
This boat-in campground offers a floating dock with a ten boat capacity and is accessible year-round. There are five sites, seven tables, six fire rings, two toilets and a shelter. Graham Harbor is a good shelter from down-lake winds however it does not provide any protection from up-lake winds. A ¼-mile trail connects to Graham Harbor Creek Campground.
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Nearby Attractions
The Foggy Dew Trail continues past the falls and leads to other scenic destinations, including Cooney Lake and Martin Lakes. The nearby Methow Valley offers additional hiking, biking, and outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears and carry bear spray if hiking further into the forest.
Cities near Foggy Dew Falls
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