Upper Priest 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 Upper Priest Falls
Upper Priest Falls tumbles into a mossy, forested basin near Upper Priest Lake within the Kaniksu National Forest, part of the USFS-managed Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Framed by dense evergreens and the hush of old-growth woods, the falls offer a peaceful, photogenic setting that draws hikers and nature lovers looking for a quiet mountain escape. Access to the falls is most commonly made via the USFS Upper Priest River Trail (Trail #308). While the full USFS GIS alignment for Trail #308 measures 8.34 miles, the commonly hiked spur to the falls is an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The route is rated moderate and rewards hikers with secluded forest scenery and the steady rush of the falls at the trail’s end.
The Setting
Upper Priest Falls sits at 3,419 feet within Kaniksu National Forest, fed by the Boundary Creek, in the mountains of Idaho.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Upper Priest River (#308), 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
UPPER PRIEST RIVER #308
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
8.34 miTrail Description
The approach follows the USFS Upper Priest River Trail (Trail #308). USFS trail data lists Trail #308 as Class 3 with a NAT (native material) surface and a typical grade of 12–20%. The full GIS length for the USFS alignment is 8.34 miles, but the most-used access to Upper Priest Falls is an approximately 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Expect natural tread—native dirt, roots and occasional rocks—and some steeper pitches where the grade reaches 12–20 percent. Conditions can be uneven or muddy after rain, so footwear with good traction is recommended for this Class 3 forest trail.
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 Priest Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Priest Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when the trail is most accessible and the waterfall flow is at its peak.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Kaniksu National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be prepared for remote conditions. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be unreliable. Watch for slippery rocks near the falls and be cautious of wildlife.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 17 miles away
870 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
12.27 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Metaline Falls hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Priest Falls is accessed via a trail that starts near Upper Priest Lake. The trailhead is typically reached by boat or by hiking the Navigation Trail from the north end of Priest Lake. The area is remote, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead for the Navigation Trail near Priest Lake. Visitors accessing the falls by boat can dock at Upper Priest Lake.
Elevation
3419 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.993112° N, -116.940720° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring bug spray during the summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places. Carry plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
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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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Skimmerhorn Inn
The Valley View Cabins and Event Center
Mountain View Retreat
Ramada by Wyndham Creston
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT
12.0 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Shorty Peak Lookout, 45 miles northwest of Bonners Ferry, sits atop Shorty Peak with views of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges of Northern Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia. The rustic dwelling was once used to patrol forest fires, and is now a unique way for overnight guests to escape the city and become enthralled with 360 degree views of area's magnificence. Access requires a moderate to steep 2.5 mile hike with a 1,300 foot elevation gain. The lookout was refurbished in 200
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Upper Priest Lake, Priest Lake, Navigation Trail, and the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, and birds. Be cautious of bears and carry bear spray.
Cities near Upper Priest Falls
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