The best waterfall hikes and walks in Marckworth State Forest

There are several dedicated waterfall hiking trails within Marckworth State Forest. Our guide features 3 distinct routes that lead to impressive waterfalls, catering to various preferences and skill levels.

The most prominent waterfall is Cherry Creek Falls, a picturesque 25-foot waterfall. You can reach it via the Cherry Creek Falls Trail, a 5.7-mile route, or the Cherry Creek Falls loop from Cherry Creek Falls Trailhead, which is a moderate 4.8-mile path.

Yes, many of the trails, particularly those leading to Cherry Creek Falls, are considered suitable for families. The wide gravel logging roads often have gentle grades, making them accessible for various non-motorized activities, including hiking with children. However, always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Marckworth State Forest is generally dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on its trails. This makes it a great destination for enjoying waterfall hikes with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow Leave No Trace principles.

The terrain is characterized by forested hills, valleys, and expansive wetlands. You'll traverse rumpled, rocky hills and dense, mossy forests. Trails often follow wide gravel logging roads, which are generally accessible, but some sections can be rugged. Creeks like Stossel Creek are also common features.

Yes, there is a popular circular route to a waterfall. The Cherry Creek Falls loop from Cherry Creek Falls Trailhead is a moderate 4.8-mile path that offers a scenic journey through dense forest to the prominent waterfall and brings you back to your starting point.

Yes, Marckworth State Forest is a working forest and requires a Washington State Discover Pass for vehicle access and recreation. You will need to display this pass if you park your vehicle at a trailhead within the forest.

Beyond the waterfalls, the forest offers diverse natural features. You might encounter serene spots like Swan's Mill Pond, or the enormous, hollow old-growth yellow cedar stump. On clear days, higher vantage points like Elwell Cliffs can offer views across the valley towards distant peaks such as Mount Pilchuck and Three Fingers.

The waterfall trails in Marckworth State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 14 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beauty of Cherry Creek Falls, and the opportunity for a quiet escape into nature.

Marckworth State Forest lacks officially marked trails, so it's recommended to bring a reliable navigation tool, such as a GPS device or a komoot map on your phone. While trails often follow existing logging road networks, having a map will help you stay on track and explore confidently.

Waterfalls in Marckworth State Forest are generally best visited during the wetter seasons, such as late fall, winter, and spring, when rainfall ensures the falls are flowing strongly. During drier summer months, the water flow might be reduced. The mossy forests are also particularly vibrant after rain.

While many trails are moderate, for a more challenging experience, you could consider the Wallace Falls State Park – Upper Wallace Falls loop from Startup. This is a difficult 14.1-mile trail that leads through varied forest terrain with multiple cascades, typically taking over 6 hours to complete. Note that this trail is located outside the immediate Marckworth State Forest area.

Yes, Marckworth State Forest is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often report rarely encountering many other people, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature away from more crowded hiking spots.