Upper Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Upper Falls
Upper Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Washington, near Trout Lake and Carson. It is part of the Lewis River system and is known for its scenic beauty and lush surroundings. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forest, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 1,640 feet within Gifford Pinchot National Forest, fed by the Muddy River, in the hills of Washington.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Middle Falls (265 ft) lies 0.8 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Lower Falls (43 ft, 2.0 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Upper Falls (#31D), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
UPPER FALLS #31D
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.03 miTrail Description
The trail to Upper Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a lush forest. The path is well-maintained and features minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most visitors. The trail leads directly to a viewing area for the waterfall.
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 Upper Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
Permit required
A Northwest Forest Pass or equivalent is required for parking at the trailhead.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Gifford Pinchot National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Cell phone service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging.
Current Water Conditions
114 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 68 years of record
13.84 ft
Water depth at gauge
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.
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 MUDDY RIVER BELOW CLEAR CREEK NEAR COUGAR, WA (16 km away).
Today
Strong
127 cfs
7/10Tomorrow
Moderate
121 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
113 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
111 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
115 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
125 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
126 cfs
8/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late May, 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 Trout Lake 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 172 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,619 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 122 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 55 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, 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
- 1,619 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 172 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- 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 southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Falls is located approximately 22.4 miles from Trout Lake, 22.8 miles from Carson, and 25.2 miles from Cascade Locks. The coordinates for the waterfall are 46.1757, -121.8523. Access is typically via forest roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,640 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.175670° N, -121.852308° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Lone Fir Resort
Explore Mt St Helens A-Frame Chalet with Deck!
Rustic Cougar Cabin with Wood-Burning Fire Pit!
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
LOWER FALLS CAMPGROUND
1.8 miles away · 44 sites
Overview Lower Falls Campground is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Visitors enjoy several waterfalls in the area and access to the Lewis River Trail. The campground is open from mid-May through October.Recreation Near the campground are several trailheads that provide visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities. There are hiking trails, mountain bike trails, horse trails, and motorcycle trails within 10 miles of the campground. The Lewis River contains rainbow, cutthroat
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Nearby Attractions
Lower Falls and Middle Falls are located nearby and can be visited on the same trip. The Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers additional hiking and camping opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, birds, and other forest wildlife. Visitors may also encounter small mammals and insects.
Cities near Upper Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Upper Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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