LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
West Quartz Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About West Quartz Creek Falls
West Quartz Creek Falls tumbles through a quiet, forested stretch of Quartz Creek deep within lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service in the Snoqualmie National Forest. The falls sit in a remote, moss-draped setting that rewards hikers with a peaceful cascade framed by old-growth conifers and thick understory—perfect for photographers or anyone seeking a less-crowded waterfall outing. Access follows the signed QUARTZ MOUNTAIN route (USFS Trail #948), which provides the most direct approach to the creek and falls. The on-trail approach is a moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back with about 300 feet of elevation gain, making it a good half-day hike for most fit day-hikers. The route is managed by the USFS, and although official USFS records note QUARTZ MOUNTAIN Trail #948 with GIS mileage, some surface and grade details are not listed; plan for a natural, sometimes uneven forest tread. If you’d like to camp nearby, the Indian Flat Group Site is roughly 3.08 km from the trailhead—an easy option for those turning the hike into an overnight trip.
The Setting
West Quartz Creek Falls sits at 3,025 feet within Snoqualmie National Forest, fed by the American River, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Quartz Mountain (#948), a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail over n/a. Expect 300 feet of elevation gain with grades of N/A.
USFS Trail
QUARTZ MOUNTAIN #948
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
6.49 miTrail Description
Trail: QUARTZ MOUNTAIN (USFS Trail #948). Route type: out-and-back, 2.0 miles round-trip to the waterfall point (reported elevation gain ~300 ft). Difficulty: moderate. USFS trail data: Class: N; Surface: N/A (not listed); Typical grade: N/A (not listed); USFS GIS miles: 6.49 (as recorded in agency data). The hiking corridor winds through dense, moss-covered forest; the tread can be narrow and uneven in places, so expect natural, sometimes rocky or root-strewn surfaces and use careful footing.
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 West Quartz Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at West Quartz Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest 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 Snoqualmie National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, especially near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Check weather and trail conditions before visiting, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Current Water Conditions
39 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
71.92 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge AMERICAN RIVER NEAR NILE, WA (3 km away).
Today
Low
39 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
38 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
38 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
37 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
37 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
39 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
41 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in June.
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 Cliffdell 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 219 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,976 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 236 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 96 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,976 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 219 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
West Quartz Creek Falls is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be rough or unpaved. Visitors should check local conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at a trailhead near the falls, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
3,025 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.007339° N, -121.155085° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months and check road conditions before heading out.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 miles and 300 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
Secluded Greenwater Cabin with Loft Near Rainier
The Cabin
4006 Suncadia Lodge Pool and Hot-Tub Access with Hotel Amenities
Cozy Studio Apartment
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
INDIAN FLAT GROUP SITE
1.9 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Indian Flat Group Campground is set on the banks of the Bumping River in the eastern foothills of the Cascades mountain range. Situated beneath a towering mixed conifer forest, this site offers a wonderful setting for large groups looking for a secluded camping experience. Recreation Indian Flat Group Campground is within 10 miles of opportunities to hike, mountain bike, ride horses, ski, raft and enjoy a multitude of outdoor recreational activities throughout the year. Nearby Bumping La
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, such as Lower Lewis River Falls and Curly Creek Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and cougars, which may inhabit the forest.
Cities near West Quartz Creek Falls
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