LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Washboard Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Drive Up
About Washboard Falls
Washboard Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in Washington, characterized by its unique cascading appearance resembling a washboard. It is part of the North Fork Skykomish River and is surrounded by lush forest scenery.
The Setting
Washboard Falls sits at 1,152 feet along the Speelyai Creek, in the foothills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Washboard Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
No hiking is required to view Washboard Falls as it is visible from the road. Visitors can enjoy the view from their vehicle or step out for a closer look.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Washboard Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Washboard Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit due to higher water flow from snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious when parking along the road and stepping out to view the falls. The area may be slippery, especially during wet conditions. Always stay a safe distance from the water.
Current Water Conditions
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
3.48 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SPEELYAI CREEK NEAR COUGAR, WA (21 km away).
Today
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
4 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
4 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
4 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
3 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
4 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid November to mid December, peaking in November.
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 Amboy 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 90 feet of descent through Washboard Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,132 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 201 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 187 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, 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
- 1,132 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 90 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Washboard Falls is located along the North Fork Skykomish River in Washington. It can be accessed via Forest Road 63 (Beckler River Road) and is near the town of Skykomish. The falls are visible from the road, making it a convenient stop for visitors.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available along Forest Road 63, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should ensure they park safely off the road.
Hours
Elevation
1,152 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.150387° N, -122.525660° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or early summer for the best water flow. Be cautious when parking along the road, as it may be narrow in some areas. Bring a camera to capture the unique cascading appearance of the falls.
Where to Stay
Lone Fir Resort
Lewis River Inn
Timberland Inn & Suites
Comfort Inn & Suites Kelso - Longview
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 Attractions
Nearby attractions include Barclay Lake Trail, Beckler Peak Trail, and the town of Skykomish.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other larger wildlife in the region.
Cities near Washboard Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Washboard Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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