Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls sits within the Snoqualmie National Forest and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are known for a single, graceful cascade — often described as horsetail-like in appearance — set among mixed conifer forest that makes it a pleasant stop on a longer hike or a quick photo break. Access is via the USFS CATCHUP Trail (SNO‑585), which provides a clear, managed route to the feature. The site has a true backcountry feel while remaining approachable: the common hiking route is described as a moderate out-and-back of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. For overnight options, Little Naches Campground lies about 1.06 km away, offering a convenient nearby spot to camp before or after your visit.
The Setting
Horsetail Falls sits at 2,644 feet within Snoqualmie National Forest, fed by the American River, in the hills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Catchup (#SNO-585), a 0.2-mile out-and-back trail over n/a.
USFS Trail
CATCHUP #SNO-585
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.64 miTrail Description
Trail: USFS CATCHUP (SNO-585). Trail type: out-and-back. The commonly used hiking route to Horsetail Falls is about 2.4 miles round-trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate in difficulty. USFS trail data lists CATCHUP (SNO‑585) as Class: N. Surface and typical grade are not specified in the USFS record (Surface: N/A, Typical grade: N/A). The USFS GIS record for this trail segment shows 0.64 miles; posted or guidebook distances for the full out-and-back route are commonly given as 2.4 miles. Expect a natural forest tread with variable footing and modest climbs; the nearby Little Naches Campground is roughly 1.06 km away if you plan to camp.
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 Horsetail Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Horsetail Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Snoqualmie National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The rocks near the falls can be slippery, so exercise caution when walking close to the water. Be mindful of changing weather conditions, as rain can make the area more hazardous.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge AMERICAN RIVER NEAR NILE, WA (5 km away).
Today
Low
42 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
39 cfs
6/10Sun
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
39 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
40 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
37 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Cliffdell 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 152 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,643 feet.
The ground changes about 35 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 9 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,643 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 152 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Horsetail Falls is located along the Historic Columbia River Highway in the Columbia River Gorge. It is easily accessible by car and is a short drive from Portland, Oregon.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
2,644 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.996448° N, -121.108483° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls, and wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore nearby trails.
Where to Stay
4008 Cozy ONE Bedroom in Suncadia with Heated Pool Access
Suncadia Resort Luxury Suite with Amazing Mountain Views
Secluded Greenwater Cabin with Loft Near Rainier
The Cabin
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
Little Naches Campground
0.7 miles away · 16 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, such as Multnomah Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, are located nearby. The area also offers hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and native plants. Keep an eye out for wildlife while exploring.
Cities near Horsetail Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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