LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
McAbee Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout McAbee Falls
McAbee Falls is a quiet, lesser-known waterfall in Idaho that rewards a short effort with a peaceful, scenic setting. The cascade sits amid rocky outcrops and green riparian vegetation, making it a great destination for hikers who prefer a less-crowded spot to enjoy water, stone, and forested views. Expect a natural, trail-and-forest experience rather than developed amenities; bring sturdy footwear and water, and enjoy the solitude and scenic payoff that make McAbee Falls a rewarding stop for hikers exploring Idaho’s quieter corners.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
USFS trail data for surface, grade, and trail class are not available for the McAbee Falls route. The trail follows natural tread through wooded and rocky terrain and can be uneven or partially unmarked in sections, so good footwear and basic navigation awareness are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by natural scenery. The area may be remote, so plan accordingly for a more rugged outdoor experience.
Accessibility
Accessibility information for McAbee Falls is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at McAbee Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at McAbee Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail to McAbee Falls may be unmarked or rugged. Visitors should exercise caution, especially in wet or icy conditions. Always inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Priest River, 5.6 miles away, not on McAbee Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
356 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 77 years of record
0.92 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 Priest River near Priest River, ID (9 km away).
Today
Roaring
385 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
364 cfs
8/10Thu
Roaring
338 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
352 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
372 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
372 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
362 cfs
6/10Best window: Thu — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early July, peaking in May.
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 Priest River hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is McAbee Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
McAbee Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 49°F to 33°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 341 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 Idaho.
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 17 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of McAbee Falls. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,193 feet above sea level.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,193 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 17 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
McAbee Falls is located in Idaho, but specific directions to the falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or contact nearby ranger stations for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near McAbee Falls is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options.
Elevation
2,192 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.284359° N, -116.871847° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as the location may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for varying trail conditions.
Where to Stay
Sandpoint Hotel & Suites Downtown
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Sandpoint
Baby Birch Banks Guest House on Lake Pend Oreille
Sunspot Lodge - Schweitzer Mountain
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
ALBENI COVE
9.1 miles away · 14 sites
Overview Albeni Cove is a small campground located just upstream from Albeni Falls Dam on the Pend Oreille. Situated amongst firs, cedars and pines, Albeni Cove provides a rustic, but incredibly beautiful location for camping and recreation on the river. Recreation Water sports are the most common activity at Albeni Cove, including swimming, fishing and boating. Campers are likely to spot wildlife in the area, including bald eagles, osprey, a wide variety of birds, and most commonly, deer. Facili
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas in Idaho for additional outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area around McAbee Falls may host typical Idaho wildlife, such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with larger animals like bears.
Cities near McAbee Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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