Lower Lewis River Falls

So far this summer we have gone on some kind of hike, walk or bike ride every single weekend. This weekend we managed to make it out to two different locations. One (Bridal Veil) we had been to before and the other (Lower Lewis River Falls) where we had never been. The Lewis River hike was suggested by my husbands uncle who drove us out there. Talk about an amazingly beautiful, adventurous hike! For those of you who do not know, Lower Lewis River Falls is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. LewisRiver.com has an amazing array of information on the falls located in this particular area of the Pinchot.

When we got there we were above the falls and spent a good deal of time looking for a way down. We eventually found it although it tends to be a little steep. If you have little ones you will need to help them down. I recommend going into the water below the falls instead of up on top. The national park service has posted a sign about the danger and inherent death at the start of the trail. Getting down to the bottom is, like I said, tricky, but doable. If you are a more adventurous, laugh in the face of danger type, you can cliff dive from the top of the falls into the pool below. We did see some teens doing that when we got there. Crazy kids. Overall the hike was not so much of a hike as it was a scenic drive topped off by a beautiful location. We were able to see Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Rainier all from the roads we were driving on. I have every intention of going back to this location. They do have a couple of large campgrounds in the area so I think next time we will make a night of it.

Family Rating:

Kid Friendly: Yes, to an extent. If your willing to help them get down to the water and are willing to watch them. The water moves fast. Kids can be swept away in the current and there are big drop offs.

Travel Time: 1.5 hours from North Bonneville, WA. Roads are rough in areas, unpaved in some, and windy in others. If your not sure your car can cut it then don't go. Gonna risk it, bring emergency supplies just in case. It is after all in the middle of a national forest. 

Mt. St. Helens from the McClellan View Point. 

2 Birds enjoying the view

 Daddy bird with 2 little birds

Family pic!

Uncle Craig, Grandma Carla and Cousin Josh

Super old swirly barked tree...Phoenix pointed this one out.

View of the falls from up above

Look at that smile! He loves a good adventure.

Eating...as always...

William and Phoenix at the bottom of the falls. Green area is rocks covered in moss, blue behind is a deep deep pool. Steep drop off right there.

The cliffs below the falls

More below the falls

Getting ready to head out...

Mt. Adams from the Gifford

Mt. Rainier from the Gifford


If you want more information on the hike please feel free to contact me. Everyone should see this one at least once in their life.

Rachel B.