Granite Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Granite Falls
Granite Falls is a picturesque waterfall near the town of Granite Falls, Washington, where water tumbles over a series of rocky ledges to create a photogenic cascade that draws visitors year‑round. The site is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and lies within Kaniksu National Forest; note that “Granite Falls” can refer to multiple places (per Wikipedia), so this entry focuses on the waterfall accessible from the USFS trail system. The falls’ forested setting and rocky amphitheater make it an easy-to-enjoy destination for photographers and families who want a scenic outing without a long backcountry push. Access to the falls is provided via the USFS GRANITE‑ROOSEVELT‑CEDAR GROVE Trail (Trail #301). The route is an out‑and‑back that gains modest elevation through mixed forest before opening onto the viewing area; despite being relatively short, the trail has some steeper pitches, so bring appropriate footwear and allow extra time for photos and rock-hopping at the viewpoint.
The Setting
Granite Falls sits at 3,461 feet within Kaniksu National Forest, fed by the Pend Oreille River, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Granite Roosevelt Cedar Grove (#301), a 0.3-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
GRANITE-ROOSEVELT-CEDAR GROVE #301
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.23 miTrail Description
Trail: GRANITE-ROOSEVELT-CEDAR GROVE (USFS Trail #301). Type: out-and-back. Total length: 2.4 miles round-trip (GIS one-way ~1.23 miles). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Surface: NAT - native material (natural tread with roots, rocks and soil). USFS trail class: 3. Typical grade: 12–20% on steeper sections. Expect a naturally surfaced singletrack that is well-defined but can be steep in places; suitable for hikers in moderate condition, with short, steeper pitches requiring sure footing.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Granite Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Granite Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit when water flow is at its peak, but the falls are beautiful year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Kaniksu National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water as rocks can be slippery, and the currents are strong. Stay on designated paths and viewing areas to avoid accidents.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 16 miles away
25,900 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 74 years of record
88.89 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
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 PEND OREILLE RIVER BELOW BOX CANYON NEAR IONE, WA (26 km away).
Today
Roaring
25900 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
27604 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
29008 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
27409 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
26809 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
28708 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
29390 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in June.
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 Ione 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 170 feet of descent through Granite Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 3,428 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 207 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 61 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,428 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 170 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
Granite Falls is located near the town of Granite Falls, Washington, and can be accessed via Mountain Loop Highway. The falls are situated just outside the town, making them easily reachable by car.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, but availability may be limited during peak times. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
3,461 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.767866° N, -117.065165° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and holidays. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be wet or muddy. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Beautiful Bungalow and Bunk House, Close to Lake
Unique Nordman Retreat 1 Mi to Priest Lake!
Beautiful Priest Lake Home on the Golf Course
Wilderness West Resort Cabin 4
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
WEST SULLIVAN
12 miles away · 11 sites
Overview West Sullivan Campground is located at the north end of Sullivan Lake and about five miles east of Metaline Falls in northeast Washington. The campground provides a unique environment where campers can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Recreation The Sullivan Lake Basin provides campers with opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating and hiking. Fishing in this deep mountain lake is most successful from a boat. Common fish species in the lake include burbot (ling cod) and Kok
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Mountain Loop Highway offers access to other scenic spots, including Big Four Ice Caves and several hiking trails.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, deer, and other small wildlife in the area. Be cautious and respectful of the natural environment.
Cities near Granite Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Granite Falls
6 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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