Are there fees or permits required for Sunset Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Sunset Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Sunset Falls.

Live Conditions · 3,140 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Sunset Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Sunset Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Sunset Falls.

Washington

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Photo Credits (5)

Eric Friedebach CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

-Reji CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

BLM Oregon & Washington CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Sunset Falls

Sunset Falls is the dramatic final drop on the South Fork Skykomish River, plunging 104 feet through a long, narrow chute that channels the river at high speed. The chute runs nearly 300 feet, concentrating the flow into a powerful cascade that Wikipedia notes can push the river at speeds up to about 60 km/h; in high water the falls’ potholes can even hurl water jets as far as 30 feet. That raw power and the falls’ sculpted, narrow drop make Sunset Falls a striking subject for photographers and a memorable stop for anyone exploring Washington’s river corridors. The falls are often experienced as a focused outing rather than a long backcountry trek: the established route to the viewpoint is an out-and-back covering 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. Hikers should respect the force of the water and keep to established viewpoints and trails, especially during high flows when spray and downstream currents intensify the danger. The combination of accessible viewing and dramatic hydraulics gives Sunset Falls a big- scenery payoff for a moderate hike.

The Setting

Sunset Falls sits at 597 feet along the Skykomish River, in the foothills of Washington.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Wallace Falls (265 ft) lies 6.7 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Bridal Veil Falls (100 ft, 1.3 mi).

Wallace Falls Bridal Veil 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

The approach to Sunset Falls is an out-and-back trail totaling about 2.4 miles with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is rated moderate. The trail provides a relatively short but steady climb to viewpoints overlooking the long, narrow chute of the falls. No USFS trail number, surface, grade, or class was provided in the supplied data; hikers should plan for a moderate, well-marked hiking route and bring appropriate footwear and caution near exposed viewpoints.

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 Sunset Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Sunset Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Sunset Falls, as the water flow is typically at its peak due to snowmelt.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water. The currents in the river can be strong, so avoid getting too close to the edge. Always supervise children and pets.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Low

3,140 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

3.5k 4.4k 8.2k 10.9k

Based on 97 years of record

6.83 ft

Water depth at gauge

50°F

Very cold

Expect numbness within minutes

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 very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

SKYKOMISH RIVER NEAR GOLD BAR, WA

USGS 12134500

5.9 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 535 sq mi

Altitude: 213 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Sunset Falls is located near the town of Index, Washington. It can be accessed via Sunset Falls Road, which is off Highway 2. The falls are situated within a short distance of the road.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is limited parking available near the falls. Visitors should be cautious as parking may be along the roadside.

Elevation

597 feet above sea level

Coordinates

47.803994° N, -121.548997° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water, especially during wet conditions.

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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

Money Creek Campground

8.3 miles away · 24 sites

Reservable

Overview Situated on the banks of the South Fork Skykomish River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Money Creek campground offers some of the most stunning scenery in the northern Cascade Range in Washington. Scattered beneath a towering canopy of old-growth forest, the sites in this campground are widely spaced and several are at the river's edge, making it an ideal setting for visitors wanting to camp in a private, rustic setting.Recreation In addition to being a prime location for hiking

Book on Recreation.gov