Panther Creek Falls | A Cascading Wonder in Washington’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest
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Tucked deep into Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southwest Washington, just 25 minutes outside the small town of Carson, Panther Creek Falls is one of the most visually stunning and unique waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. With a total drop of 136 feet split across multiple plunges, twisting streams, and spring-fed mossy cascades, this waterfall offers a mesmerizing blend of raw power and delicate beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned waterfall chaser or just exploring the scenic corners of Washington, Panther Creek Falls deserves a spot on your list.
Getting There
Panther Creek Falls is located along National Forest Road 65, north of the Columbia River Gorge. You’ll find the trailhead near a large gravel pullout with space for about 10 vehicles. Keep in mind—there are no bathrooms or amenities, so plan ahead and bring anything you’ll need.
The trailhead is not prominently marked, but you’ll see a small wooden post on the west side of the road, just a short walk from the parking area.
Hiking to the Falls
All-trails lists this hike at only 0.3 miles, however this is only to the upper viewpoint and back. The full hike, including the upper and lower viewpoints and the optional base trail, is just over 1 mile round-trip. While short, it packs in a lot of visual interest and natural beauty.
The Upper Viewpoint
From the trailhead, the path begins by gently descending parallel to the road. Not far in, you’ll reach a trail fork with signs pointing to both the Upper Viewpoint and the Bottom of the Falls. I recommend starting with the upper section first.
The trail to the Upper Viewpoint is well maintained, with a short, fenced path that leads to a cleared out viewing area. Here, you’ll see the upper section of Panther Creek flowing winding its way over mossy rocks and fallen trees. A smaller cascade tumbles down just before the main plunge, offering a scene that would be a highlight on its own at many other locations.
It’s a peaceful, scenic spot—and a perfect preview of what’s to come.
Lower Panther Creek Falls Viewpoint
Back at the trail junction, take the path signed “Bottom of the Falls.” The trail winds gently through a forest of western redcedar, hemlock, and Douglas-fir, lined with vine maple, blackberry bushes, and lush undergrowth. In spring, Pacific dogwood blooms add a splash of white blooms to the trail.
As you descend, you’ll follow a mossy rock wall, which may have small trickling streams in wetter months, adding to the atmosphere of the trail. The trail becomes steeper here, and eventually leads to a short set of stairs. At this point, you’ll get a pretty good view of falls, but the best is yet to come.
Soon, you’ll arrive at the main viewpoint, and it’s one of the most spectacular waterfall scenes in the Pacific Northwest.
The main flow of Panther Creek plunges through a natural rock trough above and drops 70 feet into the canyon. At the same time, a smaller stream fans out over the ledges to the right. But what truly sets this waterfall apart is the spring-fed cascade on the left—a veil of water that appears directly from the cliff wall, spilling in thin ribbons over 100 feet down a wall of moss and ferns.
The combination of all of this makes this one of the most dynamic and layered waterfalls I’ve ever visited.
Optional: The Base of the Falls
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, there’s an unofficial spur trail just above the lower viewpoint that leads to the base of Panther Creek Falls. A warning sign cautions hikers about potential hazards—this section is steep and potentially slippery depending on the conditions, so only attempt it if you feel confident and the trail appears safe.
If you do go down, the reward is worth it. The falls explode into a powerful misty plunge here, split into two to three streams crashing into the pool below. The energy and sound at the base is incredible. On a hot summer day, the spray is refreshing—and the view of the creek flowing downstream through moss-covered rocks is just as magical.
Final Thoughts
Panther Creek Falls is truly a gem. It combines the grandeur of a major waterfall with the intimacy of a lush, forested canyon—and all within a short and accessible hike. Few waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest are as dynamic or photogenic, and even fewer are this easy to reach.
If you’re exploring the Gifford Pinchot National Forest or just looking for a waterfall that offers something truly different, make time for Panther Creek Falls. Whether you stop at the viewpoints or venture all the way to the base, it’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.
I hope you get the chance to experience this incredible place—and like me, walk away with a new favorite waterfall in the PNW.
Happy exploring!
