Middle Falls
Washington • 265 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
1,300 ft
About Middle Falls
Middle Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Wallace Falls State Park in Washington. It is one of three main waterfalls along the Wallace River and is known for its impressive cascade and scenic surroundings. The falls are a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Middle Falls sits at 1,549 feet within Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fed by the Muddy River, in the hills of Washington. At 265 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Washington.
Height: 265 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Middle Falls (#31C), a 5.6-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 1,300 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
MIDDLE FALLS #31C
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.48 miTrail Description
The trail to Middle Falls begins at the Wallace Falls State Park trailhead and follows a well-maintained path through lush forest. Hikers will pass by the Lower Falls before reaching Middle Falls, which offers a spectacular view of the cascading water and surrounding landscape. The trail includes some steep sections and switchbacks, but it is manageable for most hikers with moderate fitness levels.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 265 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Middle Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
Permit required
A Discover Pass is required to park at Wallace Falls State Park. The pass can be purchased online or at the park entrance.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Middle Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions, so check trail reports before visiting.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Gifford Pinchot National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge near the falls. Carry a first aid kit and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
114 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 68 years of record
13.84 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 MUDDY RIVER BELOW CLEAR CREEK NEAR COUGAR, WA (15 km away).
Today
Strong
127 cfs
7/10Tomorrow
Moderate
121 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
113 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
111 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
115 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
125 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
126 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late May, 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 Trout Lake 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 209 feet of descent through Middle Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The full 265 feet the falls are listed at is spread over a longer run than this window: along the whole mile-long profile the ground drops about 1,007 feet. The brink sits at about 1,549 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 376 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 187 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,549 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 209 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Middle Falls is located within Wallace Falls State Park, near the town of Gold Bar, Washington. The park is accessible via Highway 2, and clear signage directs visitors to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking lot at Wallace Falls State Park. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
1,549 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.167059° N, -121.862864° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a quieter hike. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy in places. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds.
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With 5.6 miles and 1,300 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
Lone Fir Resort
Explore Mt St Helens A-Frame Chalet with Deck!
Rustic Cougar Cabin with Wood-Burning Fire Pit!
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
LOWER FALLS CAMPGROUND
1 miles away · 44 sites
Overview Lower Falls Campground is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Visitors enjoy several waterfalls in the area and access to the Lewis River Trail. The campground is open from mid-May through October.Recreation Near the campground are several trailheads that provide visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities. There are hiking trails, mountain bike trails, horse trails, and motorcycle trails within 10 miles of the campground. The Lewis River contains rainbow, cutthroat
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in Wallace Falls State Park include the Lower Falls and Upper Falls, as well as scenic viewpoints along the trail. The nearby town of Gold Bar offers dining and lodging options.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for eagles and other birds of prey near the river.
Cities near Middle Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Middle Falls
8 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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