Is swimming allowed at Mima Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Mima Falls.

Live Conditions · 526 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Mima Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Mima Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Mima Falls.

Q: Are there fees or permits required for Mima Falls?

Yes, there is a fee of $30.00. A permit is also required. A Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead. The pass costs $30 annually or $10 for a day pass.

Washington

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) State Resource Management Area SRMA · SDNR

Photo Credits (5)

oblomberg CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

ScottElliottSmithson CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Gexydaf CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

6.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Mima Falls

Mima Falls sits on the upper course of Mima Creek in Thurston County, Washington, tucked into land managed as a State Resource Management Area by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (managed by SDNR). The falls are part of Mima Creek, a tributary of the Black River, and carry a quiet, downstream feel reflected in the name “Mima,” a Native American word often rendered as “a little further along” or “downstream.” The setting feels intimate rather than dramatic—a mossy cascade framed by the kind of green, shaded forest that Washington is known for. The route to the falls is a favorite for hikers seeking a moderate day outing. The trail delivers peaceful forest scenery and a close-up of the creek where it tumbles over rocksteps; it’s a great pick for photographers and anyone who enjoys listening to water in a quiet valley. Nearby land is managed by the Washington State DNR as an SRMA, so visitors should follow posted rules and Leave No Trace practices while exploring this accessible slice of Thurston County nature.

The Setting

Mima Falls sits at 400 feet within Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) State Resource Management Area, fed by the Chehalis River, in the coastal lowlands of Washington.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 6.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Out-and-back, 6.5 miles round-trip with about 500 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The path is generally well-maintained and mostly shaded, winding through dense stands of Douglas fir and ferns. Expect gentle, steady climbs rather than steep pitches, with a few sections that can become muddy in wet weather. The trail is non-technical—suitable for typical day-hiking footwear—and offers easy creekside access where Mima Creek drops to form the falls.

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 Mima Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $30.00
Permit required
A Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead. The pass costs $30 annually or $10 for a day pass.

🏊 Is There Swimming at Mima Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is strongest after seasonal rains.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery sections, especially after rain. Carry a map or GPS, as cell service may be limited in the forest.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

526 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

702 875 1.9k 2.9k

Based on 97 years of record

129.82 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.

CHEHALIS RIVER NEAR GRAND MOUND, WA

USGS 12027500

9.7 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 895 sq mi

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Mima Falls is located in Capitol State Forest, approximately 15 miles southwest of Olympia, Washington. The trailhead can be accessed via Waddell Creek Road SW. Follow signs for the Mima Falls Trailhead.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a designated parking area at the Mima Falls Trailhead. Parking may be limited during peak times, especially on weekends.

Elevation

400 feet above sea level

Coordinates

46.911209° N, -123.087921° W

Land Management

Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) State Resource Management Area SRMA

Managed by SDNR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy in places. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 6.5 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.