Preston Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Preston Falls
Preston Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall tucked into Washington’s forested landscape, a peaceful destination for hikers who prefer a less-crowded outing. The approach is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain, making it an achievable half-day trip for many hikers who want a short, rewarding return for their effort. The setting feels intimate and leafy, perfect for photographers and anyone seeking a short nature escape. If you want to extend your visit, Lake Creek Campground on the Entiat River sits roughly 8.6 km (about 5.3 miles) from the falls and provides nearby camping options for an overnight stay. Because official trail identifiers or managing-unit details weren’t provided with the available data, plan ahead and check local resources before you go so you arrive prepared for the trail and conditions.
The Setting
Preston Falls sits at 1,870 feet along the Entiat River, in the hills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles round trip (out-and-back); elevation gain: ~350 feet; difficulty: moderate. The available data does not include a USFS trail name/number, surface type, grade, or official trail class, so hikers should consult local trailheads or land management sources for up-to-date surface and condition information. Expect a moderate forest hike—bring appropriate footwear, water, and a map, and consider nearby Lake Creek Campground (Entiat River) if you plan to camp within about 8.6 km of the falls.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Washington, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Preston Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Preston Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to seasonal rainfall and snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
62 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
1.03 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge ENTIAT RIVER NEAR ARDENVOIR, WA (7 km away).
Today
Moderate
71 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
66 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
59 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
62 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
64 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
65 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
64 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, areas of frost then mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late 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 Manson 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 379 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,937 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 136 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 162 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,937 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 379 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
Preston Falls is located near the town of Preston, Washington, and can be accessed via local roads. Specific directions may vary, so it is recommended to use a GPS or consult local maps for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated trailheads if applicable.
Elevation
1,870 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.882607° N, -120.431367° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device, as trail information is limited. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery or muddy after rain.
Where to Stay
The Lodge Lake Chelan
Beaver Valley Lodge
Mountain View Lodge
Driftin Cabanas
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
Lake Creek Campground - Entiat River
5.3 miles away · 18 sites
Overview Nestled in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Lake Creek (Entiat River) Campground offers visitors some of the stunning scenery in sunny central Washington and easy access to an abundance of recreational activities, such as hiking, dirt biking and mountain biking. Recreation Hiking, horse riding, mountain biking and dirt biking top the list of recreation activities in the area. Three different trails start adjacent to the campground and are open to most activities. The Silver Falls Na
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails and natural areas in the Preston and Snoqualmie region.
Wildlife
The area is home to typical Pacific Northwest wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
Cities near Preston Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Preston Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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