LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Teepee Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Teepee Falls
Teepee Falls is a tucked-away cascade set amid dense, forested slopes in a Washington State Department of Natural Resources State Resource Management Area, managed by the SDNR. The waterfall drops into a small plunge pool beneath a leafy canopy, giving the site a quiet, secluded feel that makes it a favorite for hikers looking to escape the busier recreation spots. The falls are reached via a moderately rated out-and-back route: the round trip is 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The established forest path leads to a clear viewing area where you can enjoy the cascade and photograph the pool below—plan for a short, worthwhile hike and respect posted SRMA guidelines while visiting.
The Setting
Teepee Falls sits at 801 feet within Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) State Resource Management Area, fed by the Sauk River, in the foothills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back; length: 2.4 miles round trip; elevation gain: ~350 feet; difficulty: moderate. The route follows an established forest path through dense timber within WADNR-managed SRMA land and terminates at a viewing area above the falls and its small plunge pool. (No USFS trail number or additional surface/grade/class data provided in the available information.)
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 Teepee Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Teepee Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging. Carry a map or GPS device as cell service may be unreliable.
Current Water Conditions
789 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
2.53 ft
Water depth at gauge
55°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 55 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 SAUK RIVER NEAR SAUK, WA (13 km away).
Today
Moderate
900 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
844 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
789 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
852 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
884 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
884 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
884 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
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 Marblemount 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 159 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 792 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 146 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 57 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 792 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 159 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Teepee Falls is located in the Colville National Forest in northeastern Washington. Access typically involves driving on forest service roads, which may be unpaved and require a high-clearance vehicle during certain seasons.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Elevation
801 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.343725° N, -121.440677° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Cell service may be limited, so download maps or directions in advance.
Where to Stay
Glacier Peak Resort and RV Park
PNW River Cabin
New Sauk River Retreat Concrete Wa
Cozy Darrington Cottage w/ Grill, Near Trails
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
BUCK CREEK CAMPGROUND
7.3 miles away · 29 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Colville National Forest include Sherman Pass Scenic Byway and Sullivan Lake.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. Visitors should practice caution and store food securely.
Cities near Teepee Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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