Are there fees or permits required for Shipherd Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Shipherd Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Shipherd Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Shipherd Falls.

Live Conditions · 373 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Shipherd Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Shipherd Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Shipherd Falls.

Washington

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Gifford Pinchot National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

Northwest Rafting Company CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Shipherd Falls

Shipherd Falls is a peaceful waterfall tucked into Washington’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Framed by lush forest, the site offers a quiet spot for photographers and day hikers looking to experience a woodland waterfall without the crowds common at larger parks. The setting feels secluded and natural, a good option for those seeking a short forest escape inside a national forest. Access to the falls is via a moderately paced forest hike that delivers classic Pacific Northwest scenery — mossy trees, ferns, and a cool canopy — and is best enjoyed outside of peak holiday hours. Because the falls lie on USFS-managed land, visitors should follow U.S. Forest Service regulations and Leave No Trace principles while exploring the area.

The Setting

Shipherd Falls sits at 187 feet within Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fed by the Wind River, in the coastal lowlands of Washington.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Metlako Falls (101 ft) lies 8.8 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Punch Bowl Falls (35 ft, 9.1 mi).

Metlako Falls Punch Bowl Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

USFS records list the route to Shipherd Falls as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The trail type is out-and-back; specific USFS details for trail surface, grade, and class are not provided in the available data, so hikers should be prepared for typical forest trail conditions and moderate climbs. Plan for sturdy footwear, allow time for stopping at viewpoints, and check current conditions with the U.S. Forest Service before heading out.

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 Shipherd Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Shipherd Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Shipherd Falls, as the water flow is typically higher, and you may witness salmon migration.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Gifford Pinchot National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the water, as the rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment or putting yourself at risk.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

373 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

636 915 1.7k 2.7k

Based on 1 years of record

3.23 ft

Water depth at gauge

53°F

Cold

Bracing — limit time in water

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 53 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility.

Water Quality

0.4 FNU

Water Clarity

Crystal clear

Excellent visibility

About This Gauge

WIND RIVER NEAR CARSON, WA

USGS 14128500

1.0 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 225 sq mi

Altitude: 113 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Shipherd Falls is located near Carson, Washington, within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. It can be accessed via Wind River Highway. The falls are situated near the Carson National Fish Hatchery.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the Carson National Fish Hatchery, which provides access to the falls. Availability may vary depending on the season.

Elevation

187 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.738173° N, -121.806188° W

Land Management

Gifford Pinchot National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit during salmon migration seasons (spring and fall) to see fish using the ladder. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be damp or slippery. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 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

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Nearby Campground

EAGLE CREEK CAMPGROUND

8.8 miles away · 17 sites

Reservable

Overview Eagle Creek campground is located above Interstate 84 among tall trees. It was the first developed campground in the Forest Service system. Campsites are well-spaced creating a feeling of privacy. It is, however, located on the bluff above Interstate 84 and railroad tracks so it can be noisy.Recreation This campground is part of the Eagle Creek Recreation Area featuring the classic and popular Eagle Creek trail and access to several other hiking and road biking trails. There are outstand

Book on Recreation.gov