If you’re planning a summer getaway to the Columbia River Gorge and want to chase some of the region’s most rewarding waterfalls, add Falls Creek Falls Washington to the top of your list. This three-tiered stunner is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, and its powerful plunge through a mossy basalt canyon is absolutely worth the hike. The Falls Creek Trailhead leads you through a shaded forest of fir and cedar, across log bridges and creeks, before the sound of rushing water hints you’re getting close.
Though it’s not as well-known as other Columbia River Gorge waterfalls like Multnomah Falls or Wahclella Falls, the payoff at Falls Creek Falls is every bit as dramatic, and far less crowded. Panther Creek Falls, another must-see cascade just a short drive from Falls Creek, Washington, offers an equally awe-inspiring view with minimal effort. And, of course, there are plenty more hidden gem waterfalls in the Gorge that we’d love to share with you!
Waterfalls might be the star of the show for many, but there is an impressive list of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge. Beyond the network of scenic hiking trails, you’ll find opportunities to go wine tasting, paddleboarding on the Columbia River, or mountain biking in the surrounding hills. The area is also dotted with charming small towns, local markets, fantastic breweries, farms, and family-owned eateries that make it easy to turn a hike into a full-day adventure.
After a day exploring Columbia Gorge waterfalls, there’s no better place to unwind than Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins in Washington. These elevated cabins in the heart of Washington’s Gorge-side wilderness offer the kind of privacy and comfort that elevate your trip from memorable to unforgettable. Wake up to mountain views, enjoy breakfast delivered to your door, and relax in a jetted tub or by the fire pit under the stars. Our cabins in Washington are an unbeatable home base for discovering the best waterfalls in Washington and making the most of your Columbia River Gorge vacation. Book your stay today!
Hike to Falls Creek Falls Washington
Falls Creek Falls is a spectacular, multi-tiered waterfall tucked into the lush Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southern Washington. It’s located just north of Carson, WA, a small Gorge-side town that serves as a quiet entry point into some of the best hiking and natural scenery in the Columbia River Gorge area. The Falls Creek waterfall itself drops more than 335 feet over three distinct tiers, with the final drop forming a powerful curtain of water that crashes into a mossy basin below.
To reach Falls Creek Falls, set your GPS for the Falls Creek Trailhead near Carson, WA. From Carson, take Wind River Highway north for about 15 miles, then turn right onto FR 3062, which leads to the trailhead. The gravel forest road can be a bit bumpy, so a vehicle with decent clearance is helpful, especially earlier in the season. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of parking and signage to get you on your way to this stunning Columbia Gorge waterfall.
The trail to Falls Creek Falls is approximately 3.4 miles round-trip, with a moderate incline, making it accessible to most hikers. It winds through old-growth forest, crosses creeks via sturdy log bridges, and offers glimpses of smaller cascades and river views along the way. The final stretch of Falls Creek Falls, Washington, leads to a dramatic viewing area where you can take in the full power of the waterfall, spray and all.
If you’re up for a longer adventure, continue past the main viewpoint of Falls Creek Falls, WA, for higher perspectives and fewer people. The trail is especially popular in late spring and summer when the water flow is strong and the forest is at its greenest.
More Columbia Gorge Waterfalls to Explore
Falls Creek Falls Washington isn’t the only waterfall hike worth taking. The Columbia River Gorge is filled with them! If you’re waterfall-hopping in this part of Washington, or just across the border in Oregon, here are a few hidden gems and lesser-known waterfalls that deserve a spot on your itinerary:
- Panther Creek Falls is just a short drive from Falls Creek Falls, WA. This photogenic waterfall flows in delicate tiers down a moss-covered rock face. The trail is short, at less than half a mile, but the view from the wooden platform is jaw-dropping. It’s an easy detour and usually quieter than better-known Columbia Gorge waterfalls.
- Rodney Falls via the Hardy Falls Trail is found at Beacon Rock State Park. Rodney Falls flows along the Hamilton Mountain Trail. This moderately strenuous hike rewards you with a punchy little waterfall, a cool gorge section, and sweeping views over the Columbia River. It’s a bit more exposed, so be sure to bring water and sun protection.
- Dry Creek Falls is accessed from Cascade Locks on the Oregon side but is easily reached from Carson. This 4.4-mile round-trip hike offers a peaceful trail through dense woods to a tall, narrow waterfall that tumbles down a basalt wall. It’s a quiet spot even on weekends.
Whether you’re planning a weekend of Columbia Gorge waterfalls or simply want to find the best Washington waterfalls away from the crowds, Falls Creek Falls WA makes a perfect anchor point. It offers adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of solitude in an otherwise busy summer packed with adventure in the Gorge!
Elevate the Adventure at our Washington Cabins
After a scenic hike to Falls Creek Falls Washington, there’s nothing better than returning to a private cabin that feels like your own personal retreat. That’s exactly what you’ll find at our luxury cabins in Washington. Our collection of upscale, handcrafted cabins is tucked into the woods just minutes from the Falls Creek Trailhead and other stunning Columbia Gorge waterfalls. These cabins aren’t just about a place to sleep. They’re about creating an experience that matches the beauty and adventure of the Gorge itself.
Each cabin at Carson Ridge is thoughtfully designed for relaxation and comfort. You’ll find plush beds, spa-like bathrooms, jetted tubs, and cozy fireplaces inside, and private porches, seating areas, a fire pit, and hammocks outside. It’s the kind of place where you can kick off your hiking boots, open a bottle of wine, and still hear the wind moving through the pines. Whether you’re in town for a romantic getaway or a solo hiking escape, it’s an ideal basecamp for exploring the best Washington waterfalls without sacrificing comfort.
When you stay at our Washington cabins, you’re only a short drive from iconic spots like Panther Creek Falls, Falls Creek Falls WA, and more, but you’re also close to excellent local restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and scenic drives. In the morning, you can enjoy a fresh, cabin-delivered breakfast before hitting the trails. In the evening, you can unwind by your fire pit or watch the stars from your porch. If you’re searching for the perfect place to stay in the Columbia River Gorge, our cabins in Washington deliver that rare mix of peace, privacy, and ease of access. Book your stay today!
