Paradise Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls is a charming waterfall tucked into the forested landscape of Washington's Gifford Pinchot National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Surrounded by lush greenery, the falls offer a peaceful, picture-perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers looking for a relatively short escape into the trees. The cascade drops into a modest pool below, creating a quiet spot to pause and enjoy the sound of running water. The hike to the falls is an inviting, moderately paced outing: a 2.0-mile out-and-back trek with about 300 feet of elevation gain, suitable for hikers who are comfortable on moderate terrain. Because the route lies on USFS-managed ground, visitors can expect a maintained forest trail that threads through shady stands of trees and seasonal undergrowth, making Paradise Falls a great half-day adventure in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
The Setting
Paradise Falls sits at 1,975 feet within Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fed by the Muddy River, in the hills of Washington.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Middle Falls (265 ft) lies 8.4 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Lower Falls (43 ft, 8.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This USFS-managed route is a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The path winds through forested terrain and is generally well maintained, though some sections can be uneven or muddy after rain. Expect a typical forest footpath that leads directly to the waterfall and small pool; no specific USFS trail number was provided with the available data.
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 Paradise Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Paradise 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 and rainfall. 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 Gifford Pinchot National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or damaging the environment. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out.
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 (18 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 Cougar 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 laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 217 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 2,001 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 200 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 92 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, 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
- 2,001 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 217 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Paradise Falls is located in Washington state, but specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or AllTrails for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability may vary depending on the trailhead. Some areas may have limited parking, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
1,975 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.232890° N, -122.010646° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail may be uneven or slippery in places. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Check weather conditions before heading out, as rain can make the trail more challenging.
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With 2.0 miles and 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
4-Bedroom Chateau in Southern Washington- Luxurious Retreat with Pond & Creek
Explore Mt St Helens A-Frame Chalet with Deck!
Riverfront Woodland Cabin: Wooded & Forested Views
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
8.2 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 nearby attractions may include additional hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and local parks. Check local guides for more information.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Paradise Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Paradise Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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