Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Summer Falls
Summer Falls is a seasonal waterfall located in central Washington, near the town of Coulee City. It is part of the Summer Falls State Park and is fed by irrigation runoff from the nearby Banks Lake. The waterfall is most prominent during the spring and summer months when water flow is at its peak.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Summer Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
The trail to Summer Falls is extremely short and more of a walk from the parking area to the viewing point. It is suitable for all visitors and does not require any significant hiking effort.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Summer Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
Permit required
A Discover Pass is required for parking and access to Summer Falls State Park.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Summer Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is fed by irrigation runoff and may have reduced flow during late summer or fall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the water's edge as rocks may be slippery. The waterfall's flow can vary significantly depending on the season, so always exercise caution.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Coulee City 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 144 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,441 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 71 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 102 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.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,441 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 144 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.
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
Summer Falls is located within Summer Falls State Park, approximately 10 miles south of Coulee City, Washington. It can be accessed via State Route 17 and local roads leading to the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area available near the waterfall within the state park.
Elevation
1,434 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.503216° N, -119.294005° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or early summer for the best water flow. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Be aware that the waterfall may dry up or have reduced flow later in the summer or fall.
Where to Stay
Soap Lake Natural Spa & Resort
Ala Cozy Motel
Ephrata Inn Motel
Coulee City Home w/ Mtn Views - Steps to Blue Lake
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Banks Lake, Dry Falls, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
Wildlife
The area around Summer Falls may feature birds, small mammals, and other wildlife typical of central Washington.
Cities near Summer Falls
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