Hike to Lewis River Falls

• Distance: 5.4 miles
• Elevation Change: 500ft

This Lewis River hike starts at Lower Falls then follows the Lewis River Trail #31, detours up to Copper Creek, before returning back to the main trail for the magnificent Upper Falls. Enticing views of the crystalline water in the Lewis River will make you want to jump in..even in February!

Hiking Directions:Park at the Lower River Campground Recreation Area. There is a separate parking area for day use. Follow the trail to the left of the bathrooms down to the Lewis River. Turn right and proceed to the viewing platform for the Lower Falls. If you want to get some photographs without tree branches in the foreground, there is a path to the right of the platform that leads down in front of it for a clearer view.

Return back to the main path and hike upriver. Along the hike you will pass several stair cases and boardwalks leading down to the riverbanks. If you want to get your feet wet or get some different views of the river you can make use of these and then return back to the main trail. On this section of trail you can see the concrete remains of Sheep Bridge, which was used to drive sheep to Wright Meadows for summer grazing.

After about 1.3 miles you will reach a junction, where the main trail may be blocked off due to trail damage. Take the side trail for the Middle Falls Loop that veers left and up the hill. Follow this until it reaches the Middle Falls parking lot.

Proceed to the other side of the parking lot and you will find another trail that follows along the road for a bit before descending back into the woods. The trail crosses over Copper Creek and directly in front of the bridge Copper Creek Falls plunges 26 ft surrounded by lush trees.. Continue along the trail for a better view of the falls from the side. Continuing back down the hill the trail returns to Lewis River Trail #31. As the trail continues along the Lewis River you will pass through an old growth tree grove. After 3/4 miles you will reach Upper Falls, where you can scramble down some rocks and logs to reach the riverbank near the falls. This area is scattered with driftwood and makes an excellent spot to stop for a break and enjoy the scenery.

Retrace your steps to return back to the parking lot.

Notes:

• There are vault toilets near the trail head.
• Lewis River Trail #31 is a multi-use trail so be aware of mountain bikers sharing the trail.
• The Lewis River Trail #31 follows the river, but as of February 2015 150 ft of the trail between Lower Falls and Middle Falls has washed out. This route makes use of the detour to view Copper Creek Falls.
• If camping, make campground reservations here or call 1-877-444-6777.