Is swimming allowed at Rodney Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Rodney Falls.

Live Conditions · 397 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Rodney Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Rodney Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Rodney Falls.

Washington

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

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, fed by the Wind River, 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

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.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Barely Flowing

397 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

567 802 1.4k 2.1k

Based on 1 years of record

3.30 ft

Water depth at gauge

51°F

Warm

Very comfortable

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. Water temperature is a bracing 51 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility.

Water Quality

0.8 FNU

Water Clarity

Crystal clear

Excellent visibility

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

WIND RIVER NEAR CARSON, WA

USGS 14128500

12.1 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 225 sq mi

Altitude: 113 ft

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

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