Panther Creek Falls

Carson, Washington

4.6/5

based on 12 reviews

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Details

Distance

0.64 miles

Elevation Gain

180 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Angela Service

Panther Creek Falls is a 130 ft. unique waterfall that is a hidden gem in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. It's a short, less than 0.3-mile hike down to the viewing platform.

This hidden beauty is just north of Carson, Washington. Watch for Panther Creek campground signs and follow the twisting road about 7 miles to a rock quarry and park there. The trail begins just off the road about 50 yards back - keep an eye out for signs for the trailhead and listen for the falls. From here it's a short walk to a wooden viewing platform with a well maintained trail. It's a nice shady area and a good spot to picnic. There are no garbage cans, so make sure you gather everything you bring in and don't leave anything behind. This is the family and pet friendly part of the hike.

If you're feeling adventurous, hike/scramble/climb your way down to the base of the falls if you can do it safely. It is very steep and slippery and more for the advanced hiker. 200 ft. downstream is another spectacular waterfall and just as difficult to get to as the first one. Be cautious and keep your children and pets at home if you're venturing to this waterfall.

Check the USDA Forrest Service website for more information on Panther Creek Falls Trail #137.

Falls Coordinates:
N45º 52.031', W121º 49.688'

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Family Friendly

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Waterfall

Panther Creek Falls Reviews

Jennifer Carr

Panther Creek Falls

11/04/20

This simple hike takes you to a breathtaking waterfall. It's a little hard to find off the road, so look for other cars!

5.0

Josh Davis

Panther Creek Falls

07/25/20

Really enjoyed easy hike

5.0

Clayton Lukens

Panther Creek Falls

06/21/20

We brought my brother’s girlfriend here and she really enjoyed it. She’s not too fond of hiking so we knew the 0.5 miles would be ideal and it all worked out. She had a great time and so will you!

4.0

Tien Dang

Panther Creek Falls

05/20/20

I went on this hike a few years back, so I'm not sure what updates have been made, but I made the trek out there just for the waterfall. There is a viewpoint very close to the parking area, but the best views were from the base of the waterfall. I only encountered maybe two people while there on a weekday

5.0

Miles Bergsma

Panther Creek Falls

02/20/20

I can't believe this website is condoning off-trail behavior. Between websites like this and social media, no wonder places like this are getting shut down. They created a NEW TRAIL to a lower platform with OBVIOUS SIGNAGE that asks you to STAY ON THE TRAIL. Several people have died here in the last few years due to websites like this encouraging people to go off trail! Just don't. Respect public lands and obey the signage.

1.0

Josh Bailey

Panther Creek Falls

03/29/17

I can't give a review of Panther Creek Falls because I was unable to make it there due to Panther Creek Road (NF-65). Should have done my research first. Road is covered in fallen trees and snow, turned around after about a half mile in, feel lucky my little Ford Focus didn't get stuck. Google "NF-65 Washington" before you go to make sure the road is passable first.

5.0

Leave No Trace

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

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Panther Creek Falls

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Panther Creek Falls Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Falls Creek Falls

Camp Forlorn Lakes & Explore Guler Ice Cave

Indian Heaven to Blue Lake

Wind Mountain

Steep Creek Falls

Gorton Creek Falls

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