Sunday Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Sunday Falls
Tucked into the towering evergreens of Mount Baker National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Sunday Falls is a quiet, forested cascade that rewards hikers looking for a peaceful dose of Pacific Northwest scenery. The waterfall is most commonly reached via the USFS Glacier Basin Trail (Trail #719), and the approach threads through native-forest singletrack and mossy understory—an inviting spot for those who prefer less-crowded routes and a close-up of temperate-forest habitat. The hike to Sunday Falls is considered moderate: the full out-and-back route measures about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The USFS lists Glacier Basin Trail #719 (GIS length 0.48 miles on its maps) and records the trail as Class 3 with a natural (NAT) surface and typical grades between 12–20%, so you should expect some short, steeper pitches and uneven footing as you approach the falls. Bring good footwear and a steady pace to fully enjoy the tranquil setting managed by the USFS.
The Setting
Sunday Falls sits at 3,005 feet within Mt. Baker National Forest, fed by the South Fork Sultan River, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Glacier Basin (#719), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
GLACIER BASIN #719
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.48 miTrail Description
Trail: Glacier Basin Trail (USFS Trail #719) Type: Out-and-back Length: ~2.4 miles (round-trip) Elevation gain: ~350 feet Difficulty: Moderate USFS trail class: 3 Surface: NAT (native material) Typical grade: 12–20% USFS GIS length (listed): 0.48 miles The route follows native-surface singletrack with some steeper sections; Class 3 rating indicates short segments that may require careful footing. Expect uneven, natural trail tread and grades up to about 20% in places—good hiking shoes and steady footing are recommended.
What to Expect
Expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Washington.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sunday Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sunday Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Mt. Baker National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Trails may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
20 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 34 years of record
8.52 ft
Water depth at gauge
54°F
ColdBracing — 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 54 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SOUTH FORK SULTAN RIVER NEAR SULTAN, WA (18 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
20 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
21 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
22 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
20 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
18 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
18 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
19 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 4/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to early June, 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 Baring hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact directions to Sunday Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking resources or maps for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should expect limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
3,005 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.981774° N, -121.391497° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails can become slippery after rain.
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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. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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
PNW River Cabin
Pacific Bin - Hot Tub, Secluded Forest Getaway
Cozy Darrington Cottage w/ Grill, Near Trails
Sauk River Cabins - Hot tub - Firepit
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
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
San Juan Campground
6.5 miles away · 0 sites
A nice combination of sun and shade, this campground offers exploration of the North Fork of the Skykomish river when you're not sitting by the campfire roasting marshmallows.
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Wildlife
The area may feature typical Pacific Northwest wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
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