At a Glance
- Round Trip: ~3.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Best Season: June–Sept
The Overlooked Second Act of the Cascade Trail
Most hikers turn around at the lower Cascade Falls — a perfectly satisfying destination in its own right. But the trail continues upward through steeper terrain, switching back up the canyon wall to reach a second, less-visited waterfall with considerably more solitude.
The upper falls are typically more voluminous than the lower ones, fed by snowmelt from the high basin above. In June the spray reaches the trail itself, soaking anyone standing on the viewing ledge — bring a rain jacket.
Trail Character and Conditions
Above the lower falls the trail narrows and the surface becomes loose rock and exposed root. Some scrambling is required near the upper viewpoint. The route is manageable for experienced hikers but is not appropriate for young children or those uncomfortable with heights.
Snow patches can persist on the upper trail through early July. The trail receives less foot traffic above the lower falls, which means less maintenance and less obvious markings — stay alert for cairns.
Planning the Full Day from the Lumberyard
Combining both Cascade Falls levels makes for a satisfying full morning. Start at 7am from The Lumberyard Condos, reach the upper falls by 9:30am before afternoon thunderstorms build, and be back in town by noon for a hot springs soak.
Book direct at ouraycondos.com — guests report the walkable location makes this kind of spontaneous morning hike easy and natural.