Exploring Moulton Falls & Yacolt Falls + Lucia and Sunset Falls!

Situated along the East Fork of the Lewis River in southwest Washington, Moulton Falls is a scenic oasis tucked into the forests of the Moulton Falls Regional Park. The falls and the park surrounding it offer hours of endless fun in the form of swimming, hiking, mountain biking, and more.

The best part about exploring Moulton Falls is that there are tons of things to do in the surrounding area, including three additional falls! So while you’re in this neck of the woods, you might as well knock out Yacolt Falls, Lucia Falls, and Sunset Falls. All four falls are located off the same street and sit pretty close to one another.

Continue reading to learn more about the best way to spend a day at Moulton Falls, along with tips for exploring the surrounding area.

Table of Contents

Exploring Moulton Falls & the Surrounding Falls
Hike to Moulton Falls & Yacolt Falls
Mountain Bike the Moulton Falls and Mount Bell Loop
Lucia Falls Hike
Sunset Falls Hike
Other Things to do Near Moulton Falls
More Waterfalls Around Washington

Exploring Moulton Falls & the Surrounding Falls

Click the image to view the clickable map for Moulton Falls

Coming from Vancouver, Washington or Portland Oregon, you can head up to Lucia Falls road and hit up Lucia Falls first and then head to Moulton Falls and Yacolt Falls just 5 minutes down the road. After that, just 13 minutes more down the road and you’ll arrive at Sunset Falls.

These falls are perfect to combine for a great day of waterfall chasing, picnicking, and if you want to stay longer, camping at Sunset Falls Campground!

Hike to Moulton Falls & Yacolt Falls

Distance: 0.9 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy

The East Fork Lewis River Loop is an easy yet scenic route. This lovely wooded route is the best way to knock out two trails in one. The path begins right at Moulton Falls, then winds its way north through the verdant forest towards Yacolt Falls.

Once at Yacolt Falls, you can pause your hike and take a dip in the swimming hole located just below the falls. There is a small bridge here to get you over the slippery rocks. If it’s not quite warm enough to brave a swim, the scenery alone is worth reflecting on.

View of Moulton Falls, Washington — Moulton Falls

From Yacolt Falls, continue hiking towards the Moulton Falls bridge. This postcard-perfect area is the highlight of the hike. Not only is it incredibly beautiful with its towering wooden bridge and aqua blue water below, but this spot is also a popular hangout in the summer months.

Visitors take to rafts and floaties along the river, and the braver souls can be seen cliff jumping along the rocky outcrops. There is even a small beach area here. Unfortunately, it is notoriously uncomfortable to sit on due to the rocks. Bring a camp chair or some other type of cushion if you plan to stay awhile.

Swimmers at Moulton Falls Regional Park — Hiking isn’t the only thing to do at Moulton Falls

From the bridge, it’s just a short walk back to Moulton Falls and the parking lot area. This loop is usually quite busy, even during the week – so plan on arriving early in the morning to secure a parking spot.

Mountain Bike the Moulton Falls and Mount Bell Loop

Distance: 6.9 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

Another way to experience the beauty of Moulton Falls is by trekking the Moulton Falls and Mount Bell Loop. This trail is much longer and a bit more challenging to undertake than the East Fork Lewis River Loop. While it can be hiked, mountain biking is a much more popular way to conquer this loop.

The trail is mostly gravel or paved, and it winds through a variety of landscapes before looping back to Moulton Falls. You can expect some inclines, beautiful scenery, and even a few peeps of Mount Saint Helens!

Lucia Falls Hike

Distance: 0.4 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy

While you’re in the area, don’t miss out on your chance to see Lucia Falls. The trail is located just west of Moulton Falls and is the perfect retreat for those looking for some peace and quiet amongst nature.

View of Lucia Falls, Washington — Lovely Lucia Falls

The stroll is quick and easy, and the best part is that you’ll likely have the trail and the falls all to yourself! The towering trees overhead shade the path nicely, and you’ll have a blast scrambling over rocks along the way – just be aware that these can be very slippery!

Swimming is prohibited near the falls because it is a protected habitat, but the stunning views are still worth checking out.

Sunset Falls Hike

Distance: 0.1 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy

View of Sunset Falls, Washington — Don’t miss Sunset Falls on your visit to Moulton Falls

A few miles east of Moulton Falls, you’ll find Sunset Falls tucked into the southeastern edge of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The short path leading to the falls is more of a scenic stroll than a full-on hike. However, the waterfall is beautiful and there are plenty of trails in the vicinity if you want to add some miles to your excursion.

During the warmer months, feel free to take a dip in the area below the falls.

Other Things to do Near Moulton Falls

For more adventures in the Moulton Falls area, check out the sites listed below.

Battle Ground Lake State Park

Discover Pass required

Battle Ground Lake State Park is situated just eight miles to the southwest of Moulton Falls in the city of Lewisville. Sitting in the foothills of the Cascade Mountain range, the park is as scenic as it is fun.

Silver Star Scenic Area

Head further into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and explore the Silver Star Scenic Area. Located just nine miles from the Moulton Falls Regional Park, this hidden gem features additional hiking trails and some incredible lookout points.

Paradise Point State Park

Discover Pass required

Follow the Lewis River west from Moulton Falls and you’ll run into Paradise Point State Park. You can swim, fish, hike, or simply laze on the beach. There is also a campground here along with two yurts that you can rent.

We hope this post helped you discover more about exploring the Moulton Falls area!