Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Mazama Falls
Mazama Falls is a dramatic, multi-tiered cascade on Wells Creek tucked inside the Mt. Baker National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls drop roughly 500 feet (150 m) in three main tiers, making them the largest waterfall in the Wells Creek watershed. Note that the name “Wells Creek Falls” is sometimes used for Mazama Falls, but that name properly refers to a different cascade downstream; the Wikipedia entry for Mazama Falls clarifies this common naming confusion. Access to the viewpoint follows the Hayes Lake Trail (USFS Trail #682.3). The approach passes through dense forest and opens to a vantage where the tiers of the falls can be seen tumbling down the canyon. If you plan to camp nearby, Silver Fir Campground lies about 6.78 km from the trailhead, offering a convenient option for overnight stays while exploring the Wells Creek drainage.
The Setting
Mazama Falls sits at 3,930 feet within Mt. Baker National Forest, fed by the Nf Nooksack River Bl Cascade Creek, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Hayes Lake (#682.3), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
HAYES LAKE #682.3
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.27 miTrail Description
The approach to Mazama Falls is typically done as an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is rated moderate. The fall’s viewpoint is reached via the USFS Hayes Lake Trail (Trail #682.3). According to USFS trail data, the Hayes Lake Trail includes a mapped 0.27-mile segment with a native-material (NAT) surface, is class 3 in technical class, and typically has grades in the 12–20% range. The trail traverses forested terrain and finishes at a viewpoint where the three main tiers of the 500-foot cascade are visible.
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 Mazama Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mazama Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Mazama Falls, as the water flow is strongest during this period.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Mt. Baker National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 44°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery and the water flow is strong. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and ensure your vehicle is equipped for rough roads.
Current Water Conditions
866 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 88 years of record
3.27 ft
Water depth at gauge
44°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 44 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Mazama Falls is located along the Wells Creek Road (Forest Road 33), which can be accessed from the Mount Baker Highway (State Route 542). The road may be rough and is typically only passable during the summer and early fall months.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available near the trailhead or viewing area. Visitors should ensure their vehicle is parked safely off the road.
Elevation
3930 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.849814° N, -121.740645° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check road conditions before visiting, as Wells Creek Road can be rough and may require a high-clearance vehicle. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be muddy or slippery in places.
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
Mt Baker Hotel
Coast Abbotsford Hotel & Suites
Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre
Super 8 by Wyndham Abbotsford BC
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
Silver Fir Campground
4.2 miles away · 21 sites
Overview Silver Fir Campground is situated along the North Fork Nooksack River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The area offers stunning scenery and access to numerous recreational activities within the North Cascades in Washington.Recreation The campground provides a prime location for hiking and picnicking in summer and early fall and is a non-motorized Sno-Park in the winter. Hikers and backpackers are especially fortunate to have access to a variety of trails near the campground and i
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Glacier, Washington
Dorr Fumarole Field
Dorr Fumarole Field reaches 194 degrees at 8,168 feet elevation on Mount Baker's active volcanic slopes, producing superheated ...
Sherman Crater Fumaroles
Sherman Crater Fumaroles register 266 degrees Fahrenheit at 9,463 feet elevation within the active volcanic crater atop Mount B...
Baker Hot Spring
Baker Hot Spring emerges at 108 degrees Fahrenheit on US Forest Service land in Mt. Baker National Forest, flowing 59.5 degrees...
Sulphur Creek Hot Springs
Sulphur Creek Hot Springs flows at 99 degrees Fahrenheit at 2,973 feet elevation in Mount Baker National Forest's remote backco...
Gamma Hot Springs
Gamma Hot Springs produces 140-degree water at 5,397 feet elevation in the Mt. Baker National Forest, emerging 104.6 degrees ab...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Glacier, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Nooksack Falls, Mount Baker Ski Area, and Artist Point.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other larger animals.
Cities near Mazama Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Mazama Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.