The Pacific Northwest harbors some of America’s most breathtaking waterfalls, many tucked away in remote corners of dense forests and rugged mountains. These hidden gems offer adventurous hikers the chance to experience nature’s raw power and beauty away from the usual tourist crowds.
From remote falls in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula to secluded cascades in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge, these lesser-known waterfalls provide unforgettable experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Fairy Falls – Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Nestled in a moss-covered grotto just 2 miles from the historic Columbia River Highway, Fairy Falls tumbles 20 feet over layered basalt into a crystal-clear pool. The relatively short but steep 1.6-mile round-trip trail winds through an old-growth forest draped in lichens and ferns.
This intimate waterfall setting feels worlds away from the nearby popular Multnomah Falls, offering visitors a more peaceful connection with nature.
Triple Falls – Oneonta Gorge, Oregon
Hidden within the depths of Oneonta Gorge, Triple Falls showcases three distinct cascades flowing side by side over dramatic cliff faces, with a total height of approximately 100 feet. The moderate 2.2-mile round-trip hike features stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge through breaks in the forest canopy.
Spring wildflowers carpet the forest floor, while summer brings wild berries along the well-maintained but less-traveled trail.
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Comet Falls – Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Plunging 462 feet from the slopes of Mount Rainier, Comet Falls ranks among the park’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls. The challenging 3.2-mile round-trip trail climbs 1,250 feet through old-growth forests and rocky switchbacks.
Early summer snowmelt creates a thunderous display as the falls live up to their name, shooting outward like a celestial comet.
Little Mashel Falls – Eatonville, Washington
Three distinct waterfalls await along the Little Mashel River, with the main cascade dropping an impressive 92 feet into a serene pool. The moderate 5-mile round trip hike passes through second-growth forest and offers multiple viewpoints of Mount Rainier on clear days.
Local tribes once used this area for vision quests, adding cultural significance to its natural beauty.
Toketee Falls – Umpqua National Forest, Oregon
Two-tiered Toketee Falls drops 113 feet over columnar basalt formations, with the upper tier falling 28 feet and the lower plunging 85 feet. The short 0.4-mile round-trip trail leads to a viewing platform, while adventurous hikers can carefully scramble down to the base for a more intimate perspective.
The name ‘Toketee’ comes from the Chinook word meaning ‘pretty’ or ‘graceful.’
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Falls Creek Falls – Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington
This three-tiered 252-foot waterfall remains relatively unknown despite its impressive height and beauty. The moderate 3.4-mile round-trip trail crosses several wooden bridges and offers multiple viewpoints of the cascading falls.
Ancient volcanic activity created the dramatic amphitheater-like cliff faces that frame this magnificent waterfall.
Wahclella Falls – Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Tucked into a narrow canyon, Wahclella Falls drops 350 feet in two tiers through a dramatic gorge carved by Tanner Creek. The family-friendly 2-mile round-trip trail features minimal elevation gain while passing several smaller cascades.
Native Americans once used this area for salmon fishing, with the falls named after a nearby village.
Lower Lewis River Falls – Gifford Pinchot Forest, Washington
A 200-foot-wide water curtain drops 43 feet into a stunning turquoise pool surrounded by volcanic rock formations. The easy 0.3-mile trail provides quick access to multiple viewpoints, while summer visitors can enjoy swimming in the refreshing pools below.
This lesser-known gem shares the beauty of more famous falls without the crowds.
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Curly Creek Falls – Skamania County, Washington
This unique waterfall flows through a natural rock arch, creating a distinctive curved cascade that gives the falls their name. The short 0.2-mile trail leads to a viewing platform overlooking the 75-foot falls and surrounding old-growth forest.
Local folklore suggests Native Americans used the arch as a natural bridge before modern trails were constructed.
Bunch Falls – Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon
A series of five cascades totaling 300 feet tall tumbles through a narrow canyon draped in moss and ferns. The challenging 4.6-mile round-trip trail requires some scrambling but rewards hikers with solitude and pristine wilderness views.
The falls were named after early settler James Bunch, who discovered them while hunting in the 1850s.
Boulder Creek Falls – Umpqua National Forest, Oregon
Three drops totaling 180 feet cascade through a narrow canyon filled with house-sized boulders. The moderate 2.4-mile round-trip trail features several creek crossings and passes through a diverse forest ecosystem.
The falls flow year-round but are especially impressive during spring snowmelt.
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Ranger Falls – Mount Baker – Snoqualmie Forest, Washingto
This remote 75-foot waterfall plunges dramatically over multiple tiers through an old-growth forest. The challenging 4.0-mile round-trip trail climbs steadily through pristine wilderness with minimal foot traffic.
The falls were named after early forest rangers who used this route for backcountry patrols.
Linton Falls – Olympic National Park, Washington
Hidden deep within the Quinault Rainforest, Linton Falls drops 96 feet in two distinct tiers. The moderate 3.8-mile round-trip trail passes through one of the wettest ecosystems in the continental United States.
Ancient spruce and hemlock trees create a primeval atmosphere around these secluded falls.
Walupt Creek Falls – Goat Rocks Wilderness, Washington
Due to its remote location and challenging access, this stunning 180-foot waterfall remains largely unknown. The strenuous 6-mile round-trip trail offers spectacular views of Mount Adams and the surrounding wilderness.
Native Americans considered this area sacred, using it for spiritual ceremonies and vision quests.
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June Creek Falls – Mount Jefferson Wilderness, Oregon
A series of three cascades totaling 250 feet tumbles through a rocky gorge lined with wildflowers. The moderate 4.2-mile round-trip trail passes through meadows that burst with color during early summer.
The falls were named after June Collins, a pioneering female forest ranger who had worked in the area during the 1930s.
Salt Creek Falls – Willamette National Forest, Oregon
Salt Creek Falls, which plunges 286 feet into a massive amphitheater-like canyon, ranks among Oregon’s highest single-drop waterfalls. The easy 0.4-mile round-trip trail leads to several viewpoints while a more challenging path descends to the base.
The surrounding cliffs showcase dramatic volcanic geology formed millions of years ago.
Royal Falls – Olympic National Forest, Washington
This hidden 161-foot waterfall cascades through a narrow canyon draped in thick moss and ferns. The challenging 4.8-mile round-trip trail requires several creek crossings and route-finding skills.
Early explorers named the falls after the cascading water, which resembled a royal crown.
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Warm Springs Falls – Umpqua National Forest, Oregon
Named for the nearby geothermal springs, this 70-foot waterfall creates a misty microclimate perfect for rare plants. The moderate 2.6-mile round-trip trail passes through old-growth forests and several warm springs.
Indigenous peoples used these waters for healing ceremonies, adding cultural significance to the natural wonder.
Coal Creek Falls – Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, Washington
This surprising 28-foot urban waterfall is just minutes from Seattle, and most visitors remain relatively unaware of it. The easy 2.5-mile round-trip trail passes through a recovering forest once used for coal mining.
Historic mining remnants along the trail offer glimpses into the industrial past.
Upper Hardy Falls – Gifford Pinchot Forest, Washington
Tucked away in a remote corner of the national forest, Upper Hardy Falls drops 80 feet through a narrow basalt canyon. The moderate 3.6-mile round-trip trail features minimal elevation gain and passes several smaller cascades.
The falls flow year-round but are particularly spectacular during winter storms.
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Planning Your Pacific Northwest Waterfall Adventures
Before exploring these hidden gems, check trail conditions and bring appropriate gear. Many of these falls require navigation skills and physical stamina to reach safely, but the reward of discovering these pristine natural wonders makes the journey worthwhile.
Always respect private property, obtain necessary permits, and consider seasonal access when planning your waterfall adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
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