Is swimming allowed at Rodney Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Rodney Falls.

Rodney Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Rodney Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Rodney Falls.

Washington

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Beacon Rock SP · SPR

Photo Credits (5)

ahockley CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Frank Fujimoto CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

850 ft

About Rodney Falls

Rodney Falls is a picturesque waterfall located along the Hamilton Mountain Trail in Beacon Rock State Park, Washington. The waterfall is known for its unique split flow, with water cascading over a rock face and through a narrow chute known as 'Pool of the Winds.' It is a popular destination for hikers due to its scenic beauty and accessibility.

The Setting

Rodney Falls sits at 988 feet within Beacon Rock, in the foothills of Washington.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Elowah Falls (213 ft) lies 2.4 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Wahclella Falls (65 ft, 3.5 mi).

Elowah Falls Wahclella Falls

Trail & Hike Details

2.4 mi distance 850 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 850 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Rodney Falls is part of the Hamilton Mountain Trail. It begins with a steady incline through a forested area, offering views of the Columbia River Gorge. The trail is well-maintained, with some rocky and uneven sections. Rodney Falls is located approximately 1.2 miles from the trailhead, where hikers can enjoy the 'Pool of the Winds' feature up close.

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 Rodney Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $10.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Rodney Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit Rodney Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during this period. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions.

Seasonal Access

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

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in winter. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge WIND RIVER NEAR CARSON, WA (19 km away).

Moderate confidence

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early December to mid January, peaking in December.

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 North Bonneville 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 328 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 983 feet above sea level.

Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 248 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 194 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Rodney Falls near North Bonneville, Washington, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Rodney Falls near North Bonneville, Washington, showing about 328 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing south

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 983 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 328 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: South; Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Rodney Falls is located within Beacon Rock State Park in Washington. The trailhead for the Hamilton Mountain Trail, which leads to the falls, is accessible from the park's main parking area off State Route 14.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Beacon Rock State Park trailhead. A Discover Pass is required for parking.

Elevation

988 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.643422° N, -122.014458° W

Land Management

Beacon Rock SP

Managed by SPR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially during wet conditions. Arrive early to secure parking, as the trail can be busy on weekends. Bring a Discover Pass for parking. Be cautious near the falls, as rocks can be slippery.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 2.4 miles and 850 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.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

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

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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

EAGLE CREEK OVERLOOK GRP SITE

4.1 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

Overview Eagle Creek Overlook Group Site is set on a forested bluff above the Columbia River, providing an ideal setting for family gatherings and group events. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s as a place to view construction of the Bonneville Dam, this site features CCC masonry and offers expansive views of the Columbia River and mountains rising from the gorge.Recreation The Eagle Recreation Area, just a short walk or bike ride away, provides visitors with opportu

Book on Recreation.gov