LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Lower Kalama River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Lower Kalama River Falls
Lower Kalama River Falls is a picturesque waterfall located along the Kalama River in Washington. It is known for its serene surroundings and cascading waters, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The falls are part of a lush forested area, offering a tranquil escape into nature.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Lower Kalama River Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a forested area. The path is well-maintained and follows the Kalama River, offering scenic views and the soothing sound of flowing water. The trail is suitable for most visitors, including families with children.
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 Lower Kalama River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Kalama River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, and winter may provide a quieter experience, though trail conditions could be icy or muddy.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and along the trail, especially after rain. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or damaging the environment.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Lewis River, 9.4 miles away, not on Lower Kalama River Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
4,300 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 103 years of record
3.53 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 LEWIS RIVER AT ARIEL, WA (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
4300 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
4997 cfs
8/10Sat
Strong
5748 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
5870 cfs
8/10Mon
Strong
5904 cfs
8/10Tue
Strong
6347 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
6780 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late December to mid February, peaking in January.
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 Kalama hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Lower Kalama River Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded big river, rarely freezes solid
Lower Kalama River Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 65°F to 53°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 4280 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Washington.
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 257 feet of descent through Lower Kalama River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 289 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 118 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 138 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, 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
- 289 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 257 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Kalama River Falls is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest area in Washington. Access is typically via forest roads, and visitors should check local maps and conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited depending on the season and visitor volume.
Elevation
289 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.020670° N, -122.733437° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Check weather conditions before heading out.
Where to Stay
Lewis River Inn
Best Western Oak Meadows Inn
Retreat Near Lewis River Dog-Friendly Adventures
Cozy home for families with game room & playground
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 Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, as well as hiking trails and scenic viewpoints along the Kalama River.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid disturbing the natural habitat.
Cities near Lower Kalama River Falls
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