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Franklin Falls via Wagon Road Trail

North Bend, Washington

4.4/5
based on 11 reviews

Details

Distance

2.07 miles

Elevation Gain

331 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Michael Matti

Great outing for the whole family. Beautiful waterfall. Easy hike (2 miles roundtrip).

This is an easy 2 mile roundtrip hike that leads to beautiful Franklin Falls. The trail is very well maintained and is easy for even young hikers to travel. The trail goes through the forest and along a gorge as you gain 400 feet in elevation to the falls.

There are a few places you can scramble down into the gorge which has a few really small waterfalls in it. But non of these falls compare to the size and beauty of Franklin Falls. Franklin Falls leads into a river that is shallow enough to walk across. There are some nice photos to be had if you wade out into the stream to get a more direct view of the falls.

It makes for a nice and easy snowshoe during the winter (depending on recent snowfall). Of course, stay out of the water and don't get too close to the falls if you do go in the wintertime. Also keep in mind it could be a longer hike if the road to the trailhead is too snowy to drive.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Forest
River
Waterfall

Reviews

The waterfall at the end is amazing and well worth the easy hike.

It's a relatively easy hike to Franklin falls, with not much elevation change and a short distance to hike. Beautiful waterfall at the end!

Went for a late morning hike on such a beautiful day today! There were a lot of people, but not a problem, plenty of path for everyone! We didn’t have grippers, would have been nice, but not a deal breaker! When we got to the falls, I actually did not feel comfortable sliding down the last bit of trail holding onto a rope for fear of falling the wrong way because I am a bit of a chicken! I was plenty close enough and glad I got to see this spectacular site in the snow! I will definitely come back in the summer! The road to the actual parking lot is still closed, so be prepared for a bit of a walk before even getting to the trail, but that’s what we were there for....a hike! Definitely go, I had no idea this beautiful falls was right under I-90 and I have driven over it hundreds of times!

3850 and 38 were closed due to snow, so we walked from Denny Creek Road to the falls (~4 miles). The steep rise in elevation doesn’t occur until the last mile, and it was a doozy. The falls weren’t frozen over when we arrived l, but a site to see nonetheless.

This is an easy short hike with a nice falls at the end but it sure is busy. Took some extended family and my kids here last spring and the hike to and from the falls was crowded to say the least compared to 10 years prior when I been here. The crowds reminded me of a theme park not what I think of when I envision getting out in nature. Shoot for mid week, early mornings, and/or poor weather conditions if you want to avoid the crowds. Minus the crowds I'd give the location and write up 5 stars.

This is a short and fairly easy hike that ends at an impressive waterfall. When I hiked it in April, the falls were pumping. You can also walk right up to the falls which is an added bonus. This is a great hike to cap off a day spent outdoors.

This was a perfect afternoon hike with kids after we spent the day sliding down the "slippery slab" natural water slide of Denny Creek. Kids loved the hike and it was an easy well maintained trail. We even enjoyed playing in the small pool below the falls. If you have trouble locating the trail- it's the same path (right before the bridge) with a wooden sign and it also leads to the water slide area. Enjoy! Go early in the day if it's a weekend or be prepared to join the frequent crowds.

This is a perfect hike for little ones or a friend who isn't a big hiker and you just want to get out doors. Pack a lunch or snack to be able to enjoy near the falls or find a spot along the river to layout on a rock and play in the water. Denny Creek is also just up the road another great family friendly watering hole. (Both spots require a Northwest Forest Pass)

Easy hike for family and pets. Beautiful view at the end!

There are multiple off path trails that can take you down to the gorgeous river. Be sure you're in the right physical condition to do so and wearing the right shoes though. The paths include slippery rocks, loose soil and steep declines. If you're up for it though, it's very worth it!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Snowshoe to Franklin Falls

Tackle Beautiful McClellan Butte

Melakwa Lakes via Denny Creek Trail

Denny Creek Trail to Kaleetan Lake

Scramble up Kaleetan Peak

Lodge Lake via PCT