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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Panther Creek Falls Reviews

Mark Chargualaf

Panther Creek Falls

06/16/16

The view from the platform is great, but if you want the true experience, you need to climb down to the bottom of the falls. Looking toward the platform, go left and you'll find the trail. It is rather steep in some areas, and you must partially rappel to get down. But he base of the falls is absolutely stunning and definitely worth the work.

5.0

Explorer

Austin Jackson

Explorer

Panther Creek Falls

03/15/16

One of the most unique falls in the PNW. This is a must see for anyone in the area. I would also recommend scrambling down the hill and viewing from the bottom. Overall, this falls is awesome!

5.0

Explorer

Jason Hatfield

Explorer

Panther Creek Falls

01/01/16

This is my 2nd favorite falls in the PNW, it's just incredible! Be careful if you scramble to the bottom, but it's completely worth it. Just please don't tear up the area like so many others. There's NF camping not to far away if you want to stay in the area.

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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