LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
McLoughlin Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About McLoughlin Falls
McLoughlin Falls sits within the Okanogan National Forest and offers a peaceful, photogenic cascade tucked into forested slopes. Though modest in scale, the falls' sheltered setting and classic Pacific Northwest character make it a rewarding stop for hikers and travelers exploring the area. The waterfall is reached via a relatively short out-and-back hike that begins at a nearby parking area.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route begins at the trailhead/parking area and leads directly to the falls' primary viewing spot. Specific USFS trail surface, grade, and class details are not provided in the available trail data; the path is typically described as well-maintained with some uphill sections, making it suitable for hikers prepared for moderate terrain.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at McLoughlin Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at McLoughlin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as the rocks can be slippery. During winter, icy conditions may make the trail hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Okanogan River, 1.7 miles away, not on McLoughlin Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
498 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
3.97 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge OKANOGAN RIVER NEAR TONASKET, WA (3 km away).
Today
Moderate
498 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
511 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
515 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
561 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
577 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
572 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
582 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in June.
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 Tonasket 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 64 feet of descent through McLoughlin Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 857 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 102 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 43 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 857 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 64 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
McLoughlin Falls is located along Highway 20, near the town of Tonasket, Washington. The falls are easily accessible by car, with a short walk from the parking area to the viewing spot.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
860 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.609311° N, -119.476775° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or early summer for the best water flow. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls. Be mindful of limited parking during busy times.
Where to Stay
Secluded Washington Cabin Near Hikes & Lakes!
Omak Inn
Best Western PLUS Peppertree Inn at Omak
Tunk Valley Ranch House
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
Palmer Mountain
17.1 miles away · 0 sites
Palmer Mountain Management Area comprises more than 6,500 acres of public land and is managed by the BLM. It is a great place for hiking, backpacking, dispersed camping, horseback riding, hunting, mounting biking, and fishing at tiny Washburn Lake. The autumn is especially picturesque when the many stands of aspen trees create a brilliant yellow and orange background. Visitors are sure to find a favorite spot to enjoy the quiet, scenic views of the Okanogan hillsides, aspen tree groves, grassland
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Keller, Washington
Poison Lake
Poison Lake reaches 122 degrees Fahrenheit in north-central Washington's Okanogan County, creating a thermal difference of 70.7...
Hot Lake
Hot Lake reaches 122 degrees at 1,902 feet elevation on Bureau of Land Management property in Okanogan County, producing water ...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Keller, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Okanogan National Forest and the town of Tonasket, which offers dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area around McLoughlin Falls is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for wildlife while visiting.
Cities near McLoughlin Falls
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