Harmony Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Harmony Falls
Harmony Falls is a scenic waterfall located on the northeastern shore of Spirit Lake in Washington, within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The waterfall is notable for its proximity to the site of the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, which drastically altered the surrounding landscape.
USFS Trail
HARMONY #224
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.05 miTrail Description
There is limited information about a formal trail leading to Harmony Falls. The area around Spirit Lake is heavily regulated due to ecological recovery and safety concerns, and access may be restricted.
What to Expect
Visitors to Harmony Falls should expect a remote and potentially inaccessible location. The waterfall is surrounded by the unique volcanic landscape created by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, offering a glimpse into the area's natural recovery.
Accessibility
Access to Harmony Falls is limited and not suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Seasonal Closures
Access to the Mount St. Helens area may be limited during winter months due to snow and road closures.
Safety Information
The area around Spirit Lake is remote and may have unstable terrain. Visitors should exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards such as loose rocks, steep slopes, and restricted access zones.
Location & Access
Getting There
Access to Harmony Falls is challenging due to its location near Spirit Lake, which is within a restricted area of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The area is not easily accessible by road or trail, and visitors may need special permits or guided tours to approach the site.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is no designated parking area for Harmony Falls due to its remote location. Visitors may need to park at nearby trailheads or visitor centers and plan for alternative access.
Elevation
3848 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.282333° N, -122.102872° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check with the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument or the U.S. Forest Service for the latest information on access and permits. Be prepared for rugged terrain and limited facilities in the area.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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
Iron Creek Campground
11.6 miles away · 99 sites
Overview Iron Creek Campground sits near the confluence of Iron Creek and the Cispus River. This large campground winds through a forest of old-growth Douglas firs, cedars and hemlock. Lush vegetation and ample space between sites offers excellent privacy. Recreation Iron Creek provides great fishing for cutthroat trout, whitefish and rainbow trout. Visitors can stroll along the .3-mile Iron Creek Old Growth Trail and weave through the forest and along the Cispus River, or continue on a longer wa
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Cougar, Washington
Mt St Helens Fumaroles
Mount St. Helens fumaroles reach 190 degrees at 6,906 feet elevation on the crater rim, emerging 159.1 degrees above ambient in...
Green River Soda Spring
Green River Soda Spring produces 86-degree carbonated water at 1,644 feet elevation, flowing 37.5 degrees above ambient tempera...
Orr Creek Warm Springs
Orr Creek Warm Springs emerges at 72 degrees in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest at 2,910 feet elevation, flowing 26.5 degre...
Mount Adams Fumaroles
Mount Adams fumaroles reach 150 degrees at 12,269 feet elevation, emerging 136 degrees above ambient on Washington's second-hig...
Packwood Hot Spring
Packwood Hot Spring flows at 100 degrees at 1,002 feet elevation in the lower Cascade foothills near Morton, emerging 49.8 degr...
Rock Creek Hot Springs
Rock Creek Hot Springs emerges in the Columbia River Gorge in Skamania County, Washington, with water documented as 'hot' witho...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Cougar, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Harmony Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
Permits may be required to access restricted areas near Spirit Lake, including Harmony Falls. Contact the U.S. Forest Service for details.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Harmony Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times to visit the Mount St. Helens area, as weather conditions are more favorable and access to nearby trails is typically better.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Johnston Ridge Observatory, Windy Ridge Viewpoint, and other trails within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
Wildlife
The area around Spirit Lake is home to recovering wildlife populations, including elk, deer, and various bird species.
