Considering there are more than 1,200 known waterfalls in Washington, it’s impossible to keep track of, much less see, them all. But while our popular gems like Snoqualmie Falls and Palouse Falls get tons of annual visitors, many of our lesser known, more hidden falls tend to be forgotten. Spirit Falls is one of them, and that’s unfortunate, because it’s a stunning natural wonder you can see without too hefty of a hike.
Spirit Falls is located at the end of a short hiking trail along the Columbia River Gorge, close to the town of White Salmon.
Cortney Breann/Alltrails The trail isn’t tough, but it also isn’t well-marked, so it’s easy to miss. From White Salmon, head east on WA-141 S., turn right onto WA-14 W, then take a right onto Cook-Underwood Road.
The path to the waterfall is short — the entire hike is only about a mile long — but it isn’t entirely easy.
Marisela Marquez / alltrails.com Parts of the path are steep, and the trail itself is a bit rugged )and occasionally slippery).
But once you get your first glimpse of Spirit Falls, you’ll realize it was well worth it.
Jacob Emery / alltrails.com This unique waterfall is absolutely stunning.
The truth is, the secret of Spirit Falls is already out — but only among kayakers.
Bill Grace / alltrails.com This is one of the top spots in the state (and the Gorge) for kayakers to come run with the falls. If you’re not into kayaking, however, this beauty might be brand new to you.
The water here often looks turquoise, which is part of the reason it’s so popular among those who find it.
Chryssa Hunlock / alltrails.com Not only do kayakers love it, but photographers do as well, for obvious reasons — this is one photogenic waterfall
The water falls 33 feet into an effervescent pool with an inaccessible cavern you can barely see from the viewing areas.
JD Hascup / Flickr Water levels vary, of course, but the waterfall tends to be at its best in the summertime.
The Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge is much better known for its waterfalls, so the fact that this beauty exists on the Washington side is something to be celebrated.
Chryssa Hunlock / alltrails.com The next time you’re in the area, give this trail a try. It’s a short hike with an amazing reward.
Washington is home to some seriously stunning waterfall hikes. Here are a few of our favorites.
Cortney Breann/Alltrails
The trail isn’t tough, but it also isn’t well-marked, so it’s easy to miss. From White Salmon, head east on WA-141 S., turn right onto WA-14 W, then take a right onto Cook-Underwood Road.
Marisela Marquez / alltrails.com
Parts of the path are steep, and the trail itself is a bit rugged )and occasionally slippery).
Jacob Emery / alltrails.com
This unique waterfall is absolutely stunning.
Bill Grace / alltrails.com
This is one of the top spots in the state (and the Gorge) for kayakers to come run with the falls. If you’re not into kayaking, however, this beauty might be brand new to you.
Chryssa Hunlock / alltrails.com
Not only do kayakers love it, but photographers do as well, for obvious reasons — this is one photogenic waterfall
JD Hascup / Flickr
Water levels vary, of course, but the waterfall tends to be at its best in the summertime.
The next time you’re in the area, give this trail a try. It’s a short hike with an amazing reward.
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