LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
McKenna Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout McKenna Falls
McKenna Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall tucked into the forested Bremerton Watershed in Washington. This lesser-known gem rewards a short outing with peaceful streamside views and a sense of solitude away from busier parks. The site sits within an area designated LCA and is managed by the city, preserving the natural character of the surroundings. The route is ideal for hikers looking for a shorter trail that still offers a bit of climb and woodland atmosphere; expect a mellow, restorative outing rather than a strenuous day-hike.
The Setting
McKenna Falls sits at 338 feet within Bremerton Watershed, in the coastal lowlands of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail surface, grade, and formal trail class are not documented in the available data, so hikers should be prepared for natural tread and occasional uneven or indistinct sections. No USFS trail name or number is provided in the supplied information; the route functions as a short, moderately steep forest hike and may require basic route-finding in places.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Washington.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at McKenna Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at McKenna Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow 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
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and changing weather conditions. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Huge Creek, 10.4 miles away, not on McKenna Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
7 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 71 years of record
1.39 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 HUGE CREEK NEAR WAUNA, WA (17 km away).
Today
Roaring
8 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
9 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
9 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
9 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
9 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
9 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
9 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, rain (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid December to early March, 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 Gorst hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is McKenna Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
McKenna Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 52°F to 44°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 8 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 147 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 406 feet.
The ground changes about 29 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 111 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
- 406 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 147 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
McKenna Falls is located in Washington state, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or trail resources for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider arriving early during peak seasons.
Hours
Elevation
338 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.527586° N, -122.786221° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Where to Stay
Oyster Bay Inn & Suites
Belfair Motel
Baymont by Wyndham Bremerton WA
Marshall Suites Bainbridge Island, SureStay Collection by BW
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
INTERROREM CABIN
14.4 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Interrorem Cabin is located beneath magnificent stands of Big Leaf Maple trees, offering guests an ideal location for relaxation and recreation. The cabin was built in 1907 as the first administrative site in the Olympic National Forest. Emery J. Finch, Ranger and Hoodsport pioneer, built the cabin for his new bride, Mabel, and they moved in 1908. Today, the site offers guests a unique lodging experience year-round in Olympic National Forest. The cabin is accessible by car. Basic ameniti
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Bremerton, Washington
Olympic Hot Springs
Olympic Hot Springs flows at 118 degrees within Olympic National Park at 2,000 feet elevation, emerging 72 degrees above ambien...
Mt Rainier Fumaroles
Mount Rainier fumaroles reach 162 degrees at 14,217 feet elevation, emerging 154.8 degrees above ambient at Washington's highes...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Bremerton, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and hiking trails in Washington state parks and forests.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Pacific Northwest wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near McKenna Falls
Writing about McKenna Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.