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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Waterfall

Panther Creek Falls Reviews

Explorer

Jeremy Meek

Explorer

Panther Creek Falls

03/06/17

Assuming weather conditions allow you to safely descend to the base of Panther Creek Falls and view the falls from "The Cauldron", do it. :) It is an amazing experience to be down there and have waterfalls in surround sound. It is tough to not get a great photo - that is just a bonus to the experience. Pray for an overcast day so the light diffuses. If you are going just for photography, try and go early in the day (8:30-10:30 a.m. or so).

5.0

Explorer

Matt Purciel

Explorer

Panther Creek Falls

11/01/16

I've been here three times and each time the waterfall is different. It's such a unique waterfall and a great one to photograph. Just make sure to bring a plastic bag because your camera will get wet!

5.0

Kevin Li

Panther Creek Falls

07/22/16

It took a while to find the trailhead because "Falls-->" was etched onto the ground. But the waterfall was quite stunning. It reminds me of Ramona Falls, but this is by far much more grand and is only a quick walk. Definitely a must visit.

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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