Salmon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Salmon Falls
Salmon Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked into Washington's rugged forestlands, where water tumbles over a rocky ledge into a clear plunge pool — a favorite subject for photographers and a peaceful reward for a short hike. The falls sit on National Forest System land managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Okanogan National Forest, and the most common access follows a segment of the USFS Boulder Creek Trail (Trail #SNO-04 37). The setting feels remote yet approachable, with a mix of shaded forest and open rock ledges that invite a relaxed stop to enjoy the view. Note that “Salmon Falls” is a common place name — Wikipedia lists several other locations with the same name across the U.S. — so be sure you’re headed to the Washington falls in Okanogan National Forest. Services are limited nearby; the Methow Valley Ranger District (the nearest developed ranger/camping support) is roughly 26.5 km from the trailhead, so plan accordingly and check with the Forest Service for seasonal access and trail updates before you go.
The Setting
Salmon Falls sits at 3,173 feet within Okanogan National Forest, fed by the West Fork Salmon Creek, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
USFS Trail
BOULDER CREEK #SNO-04 37
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
32.97 miTrail Description
The trail to Salmon Falls is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles (round trip) with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Hikers typically use a section of the USFS Boulder Creek Trail (Trail #SNO-04 37) to reach the viewpoint. According to USFS data this route falls under Trail Class: N; surface and typical grade are listed as N/A in the database. (The Boulder Creek Trail system is mapped at 32.97 GIS miles in USFS records, though the commonly hiked segment to the falls is much shorter.) Expect natural tread and typical forest trail conditions; check the Okanogan National Forest / Methow Valley Ranger District for current trail conditions before heading out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the sound of cascading water and opportunities for photography. The area may have uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Salmon Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Salmon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Okanogan National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions. Always stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 13 years of record
5.79 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 WEST FORK SALMON CREEK NEAR CONCONULLY, WA (6 km away).
Today
Roaring
6 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
6 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
5 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
5 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
5 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
5 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
5 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early July, 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 Conconully 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 224 feet of descent through Salmon Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 3,206 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 148 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 139 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,206 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 224 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Salmon Falls is located in the southwestern region of Washington. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should check for specific directions based on their starting location.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability may vary depending on the season and local conditions. Visitors are advised to check for designated parking areas nearby.
Elevation
3,173 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.554314° N, -119.847572° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and check weather conditions before visiting. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Where to Stay
Omak Inn
Twisp River Suites
Best Western PLUS Peppertree Inn at Omak
AbbyCreek Inn
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Methow Valley Ranger District
16.5 miles away · 0 sites
With its big valleys, open wildspaces, high ridges and beautiful rivers, the Methow Valley Ranger District's 1.3 million acres extends from near the town of Twisp Washington to the crest of the Cascade Mountains in the Pasayten Wilderness. Alpine lakes are a hideaway for anglers while diverse wilderness awaits explorers of all types. There are bassalt formations for rock climbers and winter sports opportunities abound. The highest peak is Jack Mountain at 9,066 feet, with many other peaks above
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Chelan, Washington
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Poison Lake reaches 122 degrees Fahrenheit in north-central Washington's Okanogan County, creating a thermal difference of 70.7...
Hot Lake
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Chelan, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints in the region.
Wildlife
The area around Salmon Falls may be home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
Cities near Salmon Falls
Other waterfalls named Salmon Falls
6 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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