Mission Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Mission Falls
Mission Falls sits tucked inside Idaho’s Kaniksu National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The cascade offers a peaceful encounter with wooded, riverside scenery and is a popular half-day outing for hikers who want a relatively short, rewarding trek. Access is primarily via the Jack Pine Trail (USFS Trail #192-4); on USFS maps that segment is listed at 0.72 miles, while the full out-and-back route to the falls measures about 3.0 miles with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Because the falls are on National Forest land, nearby dispersed and developed camping is available; the closest developed site is Osprey Campground, approximately 9.01 km away, making Mission Falls a convenient destination for day hikers and those planning an overnight stay. Expect serene forest surroundings, the sound of rushing water, and a pleasant, moderately challenging hike to reach the viewpoint.
The Setting
Mission Falls sits at 2,323 feet within Kaniksu National Forest, in the hills of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Jack Pine (#192-4), a 3.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain with grades of 5-8%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
JACK PINE #192-4
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.72 miTrail Description
Jack Pine Trail (USFS Trail #192-4) is a Class 3, out-and-back route with a native-material surface (NAT). Typical grade along the trail is moderate, about 5–8%, and USFS GIS mapping lists the Jack Pine segment at 0.72 miles; the total advertised route to Mission Falls is about 3.0 miles round trip with ~500 ft elevation gain. The tread is natural and can include rocky or uneven sections—sturdy footwear and steady footing are recommended for this moderate hike.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike through a scenic forest, culminating in views of Mission Falls. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mission Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mission Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Kaniksu National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
386 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PRIEST R OUTFLOW NR COOLIN, ID (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
386 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
414 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
763 cfs
3/10Wed
Barely Flowing
839 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
728 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
1188 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
1532 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to late June, 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 Coolin 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 135 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,321 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 152 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 48 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,321 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 135 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Mission Falls is located in a remote area of Idaho. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions. Directions should be verified with local resources or maps before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,323 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.421495° N, -116.928792° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities along the trail. Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail may become slippery after rain.
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With 3.0 miles and 500 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
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
OSPREY
5.6 miles away · 16 sites
Overview Campers come to Osprey for sunshine and boating at Priest Lake, and for breathtaking views of the rugged Selkirk Mountains. Fishing is also a big draw, with trout just waiting to be caught. While here, watch for moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves, mountain lions and deer. Osprey, as inferred by the campground name, also inhabit the area.Recreation Boating, canoeing, kayaking and wake boarding are summertime favorites. Boaters like to head north on the lake and traverse a narrow thoro
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and natural landmarks in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Mission Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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Other waterfalls named Mission Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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