Visiting Yacolt Falls in Washington
Located inside the lovely Moulton Falls Regional Park, Yacolt Falls is a must-see for anyone chasing waterfalls in Washington.
The falls themselves are not the biggest, or most impressive cascades in the state, but add a short hike, scenic surroundings, and a bonus waterfall, and you’re in for a fabulous time.
Here’s everything you need to know about exploring Yacolt Falls.
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Table of Contents
- Exploring Yacolt Falls
- Hike to Yacolt Falls
- Yacolt Falls + More Nearby Waterfalls
- More Waterfalls Around Washington
- Hiking Twin Falls Trail: What You Need to Know!
- Snoqualmie Falls Hike: What You Need to Know!
- Franklin Falls Hike: What You Need to Know!
- Your Guide to Hiking The Sol Duc Falls Trail
- Palouse Falls State Park: Your Complete Guide
- Exploring Moulton Falls & Yacolt Falls + Lucia and Sunset Falls!
- Your Guide to Lacamas Park: Trails, Lakes, and Waterfalls!
- 7 Awesome Waterfalls Near Seattle, Washington
- 21 Epic Waterfalls in Washington
Exploring Yacolt Falls
The falls sit inside of Moulton Falls Regional Park, and you’ll find two parking lots, several bathrooms, and picnic tables available to visitors free of charge.
You can pick up the trail to Yacoult Falls from either parking lot, so pick a spot wherever there is available space. This is a popular spot, and parking spaces will likely be limited. Try to get here early and avoid weekends.
The Moulton Falls Regional Park is open daily from 7:00 am to dusk.
Hike to Yacolt Falls
Distance: 0.9 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 127 feet
Other important info:
- Dogs are allowed
- There is no fee for this trail
To get to Yacolt Falls, you’ll only need to hike a short way. The East Fork Lewis River Loop is short and sweet, and if you complete the whole loop, you’ll get to see another waterfall—Moulton Falls.
Moulton Falls
If you park in the main lot, the path begins right at Moulton Falls and then winds its way north through the verdant forest toward Yacolt Falls. From the upper lot, you can pick up the trail and go in either direction to see both falls.
NOTE: If you’re only interested in Yacoult Falls, you can head to the right from the upper parking lot to reach the falls, then head back the way you came. In my opinion, you might as well see both falls in the area unless you’re really in a rush.
Yacolt Falls
Once at Yacolt Falls, you can brave a dip in the swimming hole located just below the falls. There is a small bridge and some old steps down to the water, but be careful and watch your step—it can be slippery here, and currents are strong.
Moulton Falls Bridge
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.
There’s a small beach here, and you can chill on the (notoriously uncomfortable) rocks, go for a swim, or bring a raft or floatie and chill on the river.
TIP: Bring a camp chair or some other type of cushion if you plan to stay awhile.
You may even see some people cliff-jumping along the rocky outcrops. Note that jumping from the bridge is NOT permitted.
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.
Yacolt Falls + More Nearby Waterfalls
Yacolt Falls is one of four waterfalls along Lucia Falls Road. While you’re in the area, you can also check out Lucia Falls, Moulton Falls, and Sunset Falls, all located within 20 minutes of each other!
Read our guides:
We hope this post helped you discover more about exploring the Yacolt Falls area!
