LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Mary Pamela Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Mary Pamela Falls
Mary Pamela Falls is a quiet, forested cascade tucked into lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources — it sits within a WADNR State Resource Management Area (SRMA). The falls are a lesser-known local treasure: framed by dense evergreens, the drop is most impressive in spring when snowmelt swells the stream, while late summer visits often find a gentler flow and a more intimate, tranquil setting. The setting feels remote and restorative, ideal for hikers who prefer a peaceful outing away from busier parks. Because the site lies on state-managed SRMA lands rather than on a U.S. Forest Service route, facilities are minimal; expect natural surroundings and bring essentials for a backcountry-style visit. Seasonal flow variation means spring is the best time for maximum volume, but fall colors and quieter trails can make shoulder seasons equally rewarding.
The Setting
Mary Pamela Falls sits at 1,312 feet within Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) State Resource Management Area, in the foothills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail status: This route is an out-and-back on WADNR-managed SRMA land rather than a U.S. Forest Service–designated trail, so there is no USFS trail name/number. Surface/grade/class (USFS classifications): not applicable for this WADNR route. The trail is short but can be rough in spots; visitors should be prepared for native tread, occasional roots and rocks, and limited formal signage. Carry a map or GPS and wear sturdy footwear—the moderate rating reflects both the steady elevation change and the uneven, natural trail conditions.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and secluded experience surrounded by nature. The waterfall's flow may vary depending on the season, with spring offering the most robust display.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mary Pamela Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mary Pamela Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is typically the best time to visit due to higher water flow from snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 48°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and prepare for potentially unmarked trails. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Sultan River, 1.4 miles away, not on Mary Pamela Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
196 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 36 years of record
26.22 ft
Water depth at gauge
48°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 48 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SULTAN RIVER BELOW DIVERSION DAM NEAR SULTAN, WA (2 km away).
Today
Roaring
196 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Roaring
212 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
235 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
241 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
239 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
256 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
249 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late April, peaking in October.
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 Lake Roesiger hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Mary Pamela Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Mary Pamela Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 54°F to 46°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 231 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 shows Mary Pamela Falls dropping about 283 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 1,312 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 45 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 206 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
- 1,312 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 281 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
Specific directions to Mary Pamela Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to research local maps or consult with nearby park services for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking options and ensure they are not blocking access roads.
Elevation
1,312 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.978540° N, -121.787810° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails could become slippery or hazardous after rain.
Where to Stay
Dutch Cup Motel
Executive Residency by Best Western Navigator Inn & Suites
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Marysville
Inn at Port Gardner-Everett Waterfront, Ascend Hotel Collection
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 are not well-documented, but the surrounding area may offer additional hiking trails and natural features.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Pacific Northwest wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
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