The Pacific Northwest is home to hundreds of stunning waterfalls, and nestled within the dense and picturesque Gifford Pinchot National Forest, you can discover one of the most beautiful: Lower Lewis Falls.

This remarkable set of waterfalls features multiple cascades and breathtaking views, attracting hikers, fishermen, tubers, kayakers, and photographers who are eager to enjoy this outdoor paradise. The falls are located next to a peaceful and relaxing campground, making it a perfect escape from the busyness of everyday life.

Photographers looking to capture this picturesque scene must navigate a challenging trail down to the water and maintain their balance as they wade through ankle-deep water. Once they arrive, they are greeted by an incredible sight.

Images and location summary by Tim Wier

Trail Difficulty - CHALLENGING

I rate the difficulty of this trail as a 3.5 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being most difficult). To get to the location of this shot, you will need to hike down to the water below the falls. This is not a difficult hike, but there are some challenges to consider.

To reach the water, you will have to descend about 10 to 15 feet from the end of the trail. This requires level 3 hiking skills, which may involve using your hands and knees, sliding on your butt, and possibly utilizing a climber's rope. There are several spots to access the water, and I found two of them that include a climbing rope for assistance. If you follow the provided KMZ file, you will find a trail that allows you to use tree roots to gradually and safely descend to the water.

Once you are in the water, be cautious: the rocks are very slick, and it is easy to slip and hurt yourself. After reaching the water, you will need to walk through ankle-deep water for about 30 to 40 yards. While you might stay close to the edge to keep your boots dry, I recommend walking through the water instead, as the rocks are extremely slippery. Please be careful as you make your way to the location of this shot. If you have muck boots, wearing them will help keep your feet dry.

GPS Coordinates & Elevation

46°09'17.1"N 121°52'51.9"W

1,454 ft Elevation

Download KMZ Trail File

Click Here to download the KMZ file for this location.

Photography Tips

This place is simply stunning!

Once you get to the shot's location, take in the wonderful view and consider the many composition possibilities before deciding where to set up your tripod, as you will be standing in ankle-to-knee-high water. During my visits to this spot, I've found that there is usually little to no current in the river (below the falls), especially if you stay close to the bank. The full width of the falls spans about 10 to 20 yards. However, on my last visit, I noticed several unphotogenic logs on the right side of the falls. The image above shows the left-hand side.

To capture great photographs, it’s best to visit when there is no direct light on the falls or the surrounding area. This is typically during the early morning, late afternoon (around sunset), or on a cloudy day.

After you have found your composition, I recommend using a neutral density (ND) filter that allows for a shutter speed of 1 to 10 seconds. You can achieve a smooth, creamy effect on the water from the falls with just a 1-second exposure. However, for the foreground water, a 5 to 10 second exposure will work better. Keep in mind that this longer exposure may also capture movement in the leaves of nearby trees, so you might need to composite your shot. Enjoy your time in this beautiful location, and don't hesitate to explore and try different compositions!

Directions

CLICK HERE to get driving directions to Lower Lewis Falls.

The nearest town to Lower Lewis Falls is Stevenson, WA, which is located 46 miles to the south. The drive from Stevenson takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

As you drive to Lower Lewis Falls, you will pass through a dense forest, making it quite dark even during the day. The final stretch of the road is curvy and consists of a one-lane dirt road with old pavement, which may have bumps and potholes. If you plan to return after dark, be sure to mark the different turnoffs along the way, as it is easy to get confused while navigating in the dark.

From Stevenson, WA - drive east on Lewis and Clark Highway (HWY 14) for 3.2 miles. Take the roundabout exit onto Wind River Road (NF-30) and continue on Wind River Road (through Carson) for 25 miles. At this point, turn left onto Curly Creek Road and drive for 5.1 miles until you reach a T intersection. Here, turn right onto NF-90 and drive for 10.2 miles, where you will see a sign for Lower Lewis Falls. The small parking area is on the right, just before you reach the campgrounds. Please park and display your reservation on your vehicle's dashboard upon arrival.

To get down to the location of the shot - from the small parking area - Take the well-maintained trail on the southeast side (toward the center left) and walk about 100 yards until you reach an east-west trail. At this junction, turn right and walk west for approximately 75 yards. You will then notice another trail heading toward the water (refer to the image below). Scramble down toward the water until you find an opening filled with tangled roots and a dirt path leading down to the shore. Once you arrive at the water, walk 30 to 40 yards toward the falls to find your desired composition.

View In Google earth

EXIF Data

Focal Length – 40 mm
Exposure – 4 sec @ f 11.0
ISO – 50
Date – July 9th
Time – 7:40 pm

Best Time of Day to Shoot

To capture the best photographs of the falls, it's important to avoid direct sunlight hitting the scene. The ideal times for shooting are during overcast days or at sunrise in the summer. Late afternoon to sunset also provides excellent lighting for photographing the falls.

Best Time of Year

These falls can be photographed year-round, as long as the road is open.

Keep in mind that the water level can vary depending on your visit. In the summer, the sun rises in the northeast and sets in the northwest. At sunrise, the background trees will illuminate beautifully, while in the late afternoon toward sunset, the golden light will reflect on the water and enhance the scenery. In the spring and fall, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. During sunrise, the sun will be directly in front of you, whereas in the late afternoon, it will be behind you.

Lens(es) Needed

Depending on your perspective and composition, either a wide-angle or a standard lens can be suitable.

The image above was taken at 40 mm.

Birds-Eye View

Permits

There are two ways to visit the falls: 1. Camp at the beautiful Lower Falls Campground. 2. Park at the small Recreation Area parking lot.

During the busy season (June 15 through September 2), a permit is required for either option. If you choose to visit the Lewis River Recreation Area parking lot, be sure to print your reservation and place a hard copy on your vehicle's dashboard upon arrival. You can obtain permits at recreation.gov.

If possible, I highly recommend staying at the campground; it's a wonderful experience, but be sure to plan in advance, as sites fill up quickly.

Direction of the Shot

The shot is east around 98°.

Equipment Needed

To photograph from this position, you'll be standing in ankle-to-knee deep water. While muck boots can help keep your feet dry, they are not mandatory.

To achieve the milky-smooth effect of the water from the falls, you'll need to shoot at a shutter speed of 1 second or slower. For this reason, a sturdy tripod and a 3, 6, or higher neutral density filter are necessary.

As mentioned in the section on trail difficulty, a hiking rope might be required to reach the water. Each time I have visited the falls, there have been ropes at various points along the trails leading down to the water. However, if there are none available, you might need your own to make it down safely.

Number of Other Photographers to Expect

Lewis Falls is a popular spot for visitors, tubers, and kayakers. Therefore, during the busy season, expect to see many people enjoying the falls, particularly in the afternoon.

However, most of the visitors are above the falls and out of your shot. If not, just be patient and wait for your opportunity. Most visitors will clear out in the late afternoon and you will most likely have the place to yourself. If you photograph at sunrise or early morning, you may have a couple other photographers in the water with you. This is plenty of room to position yourself.

Weather

Current Weather

It rains a great deal in this part of the country. When it is raining, the trail to the water becomes extremely slick and dangerous.

Lower Lewis Falls