LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Marietta Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Marietta Falls
Marietta Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in Washington, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful destination for nature enthusiasts. Due to its relatively remote location, it is not heavily trafficked.
The Setting
Marietta Falls sits at 279 feet along the Lewis River, in the coastal lowlands of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Marietta Falls winds through a dense forest with occasional clearings. The path may include uneven terrain, exposed roots, and some muddy sections, especially after rain. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for moderate elevation gain.
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 Marietta Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Marietta Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Hikers should exercise caution on slippery or uneven sections of the trail. Carry a first aid kit and inform someone of your plans before heading out. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
1,350 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 105 years of record
1.58 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 (20 km away).
Today
Roaring
1539 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
1613 cfs
8/10Sun
Roaring
1411 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
1464 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
1505 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
1581 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
1728 cfs
6/10Best window: Sun — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
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.
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 laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 322 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 282 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 221 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 223 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and 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
- 282 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 322 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Marietta Falls is located near the town of Marietta in Washington. Access to the falls may require navigating forest roads, so a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pullouts or small gravel lots. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
279 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.042058° N, -122.786773° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability. Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities along the trail. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can become slippery after rain.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 miles and 300 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Lewis River Inn
McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge
Cozy home for families with game room & playground
Comfort Inn & Suites Kelso - Longview
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.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include local hiking trails and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding forested areas.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger wildlife.
Cities near Marietta Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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