Sunday Falls
Photo Credits (5)
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.
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
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Seasonal Closures
No specific seasonal closures are documented, but access may be limited during winter due to snow or icy conditions.
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.
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
3005 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Baring, Washington
Garland Mineral Springs
Garland Mineral Springs flows at 84 degrees in the Snoqualmie National Forest, producing water 39.6 degrees above ambient tempe...
Kennedy Hot Spring
Kennedy Hot Spring flows at 100 degrees at 3,520 feet elevation in the Mt. Baker National Forest, emerging 58.7 degrees above a...
Gamma Hot Springs
Gamma Hot Springs produces 140-degree water at 5,397 feet elevation in the Mt. Baker National Forest, emerging 104.6 degrees ab...
Sulphur Creek Hot Springs
Sulphur Creek Hot Springs flows at 99 degrees Fahrenheit at 2,973 feet elevation in Mount Baker National Forest's remote backco...
Scenic Hot Springs
Scenic Hot Springs delivers genuinely hot water at 122 degrees Fahrenheit at 2,246 feet elevation in the Cascade Mountains near...
Goldmeyer Hot Springs
Goldmeyer Hot Springs emerges at 127 degrees in the central Cascades, producing water 78.9 degrees above ambient temperature at...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Baring, Washington on SoakingSprings.
Explore Washington springsFrequently 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
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to snowmelt.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and hiking trails in the region may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Pacific Northwest wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
