Rush Creek Falls

Rush Creek Falls is among the most significant waterfalls in the state of Washington due to its rare combination of both significant stream volume and significant height. The basin of Rush Creek above the falls covers an area of around 30 square miles, almost all of which lies within the Indian Heaven volcanic plateau - a high elevation area which receives heavy snow fall in the winter and retains precipitation well due to its porous nature. As Rush Creek flows off this plateau toward the Lewis River it cuts a significant canyon, and in the process plunges over this thunderous 208 foot tall waterfall, first in a very scenic 181-foot tall veiling type horsetail drop, and then followed up by a 27-foot plunge a short distance downstream. Due to the large volume of the creek, the falls throw up a considerable cloud of spray at almost all times of year, ensuring the surrounding canyon walls and slopes are thoroughly saturated with both moisture and moss. Unfortunately despite being one of the most noteworthy waterfalls in the Gifford Pinchot region of Washington, the National Forest Service has not yet seen it fit to construct a trail to the falls. Until the Curly Creek Road was replaced in the early 2000s, it was significantly easier to reach the falls as well, but with the old road having been decommissioned, neither of the viable routes to the falls are remotely easy. Those who wish to visit this waterfall should be very comfortable with extensive off-trail navigation, especially on steep, crumbly slopes. Additionally, expect to encounter thick brush, lots of logs to climb over, and lots and lots of Devil's Club around the creek at the bottom of the canyon.