Gifford Pinchot/Lower Falls

Trista Chandler

Visited on a Friday late August 2025. Absolutely breathtaking! We arrived around 10am and parked at the lower falls. In addition to a park/ day pass, you also need a $2 parking reservation thru recreation.gov which can be difficult to get, but it is worth the effort and wait! There is no cell service so you want to make sure you have everything you need..parking pass printed and maps downloaded for offline access. The hike from lower to upper falls was on the easy side and just a few miles. There were only a couple people on the trail and at the upper falls. We took a dip and while it was very cold water, it was refreshing and fast drying once you get out-we didn't need towels. The lower falls is not only breathingly beautiful, it brought a feeling of incredible peace and awe. It would be easy to sit there all day and take in the natural beauty around. Getting down to the lower falls is a little tricky, with a couple of short, steep trails with ropes to help. You definitely want to have non-slip water shoes for getting around once down there.

nelbgarrido

Visited in early October, and this location offers an absolutely breathtaking display of nature, particularly seeing the majestic waterfalls. The public bathrooms in this park are natural septic tanks; be prepared for the strong, earthy smell. The parking area is conveniently located right next to the falls, making it very easy to reach with a short walking distance. I swam at the bottom of the falls wearing a specialized 3mm wetsuit, and I definitely felt the water's shocking cold during this time of year. I would not recommend attempting to swim without the proper equipment. Aside from that, it's an incredible place to take stunning, breathtaking photos.

Josh Foley

I hesitate to tell anyone about this place! It is my new happy place and I will imagine being here when life gets hard. I hope no one reads this and no one else discovers this treasure. My one saving grace is that a permit is required to come here. Don’t forget your camera and bathing suit. 10/10 best place in Washington.

J H

Incredible views and trails to the falls were easily accessible. A must if you like waterfalls and nature hikes! Parking reservations and fees are required along with a small day use fee but definitely worth it.

Stephen Harriman

Lower Lewis Falls is a really nice camping spot. There are really nice hiking trails around the river and falls. There is a really nice board walk down to the river just before the falls. The trail that leads to below the falls is well maintained. My only complaint is that there isn't a great way to get down the cliff to get below the falls.