Madison Falls Olympic National Park
A charming, easily accessible waterfall with a short, paved trail through a moss-laden forest in Olympic National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Waterfalls are full, fewer crowds
Madison Falls Olympic National Park
Best Time
Waterfalls are full, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, easily accessible waterfall with a short, paved trail through a moss-laden forest in Olympic National Park.
"This easy nature trail is perfect for everyone! #madisonfalls #onp #pnw"
Easy Paved Path
Don't be fooled by tall grass! Look for the actual paved path for an accessible stroll to the falls. :athletic_shoe:
Perfect for All
This short, easy hike is ideal for families, strollers, and those seeking a quick nature fix. :baby:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Madison Falls
Elwha Valley
A stunning, easily accessible waterfall with a short, paved path through moss-draped trees.
Elwha River Basin
Near Madison Falls Trailhead
Explore the riverbanks and historic valley, a beautiful spot for a picnic or gentle exploration.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessibility is Key
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Easy Paved Path
Don't be fooled by tall grass! Look for the actual paved path for an accessible stroll to the falls. :athletic_shoe:
Perfect for All
This short, easy hike is ideal for families, strollers, and those seeking a quick nature fix. :baby:
Combine with Elwha
Visit the historic Elwha River basin nearby for a fuller experience. :river:
Fragrant Rest Stop
There's a surprisingly fragrant bathroom located on the way to the falls. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Easy Paved Path
Don't be fooled by tall grass! Look for the actual paved path for an accessible stroll to the falls. :athletic_shoe:
Perfect for All
This short, easy hike is ideal for families, strollers, and those seeking a quick nature fix. :baby:
Combine with Elwha
Visit the historic Elwha River basin nearby for a fuller experience. :river:
Fragrant Rest Stop
There's a surprisingly fragrant bathroom located on the way to the falls. :toilet:
Picnic Spot
Plenty of parking and picnic tables are available near the river basin. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Madison Falls for its incredible accessibility and short, paved trail, making it a perfect stop for all ages and abilities. The surrounding mossy forest adds to its charm, though some note it's a smaller waterfall compared to others in the park. It's highly recommended as a quick, rewarding nature experience.
"Nice little waterfall with a 0.1 mile paved walk into the forest to reach it. Anyone could make this hike so don't worry if you're not feeling fit. There's an extremely fragrant bathroom on the way if you need it.
Plenty of parking and some picnic tables nearby too."
Tim Traveler
"Very short walk - paved one and nice view of the waterfall. Loved big mossy trees at the bottom of the trail - maples I think 🤔"
Agata Lamb
"Gorgeous small-ish but still beautiful waterfall! Hot tip, if you park and start to walk through tall grass or trees, there is an actual paved path that is accessible (which I love)! You can also come off the paved path and explore in the small creek/water and surrounding nature. Good, quick stop for a short hike."
Leah Bryant
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Madison Falls is located in the Elwha Valley, accessible via Olympic Hot Springs Road, which turns off Highway 101 about 11 miles west of Port Angeles. The trailhead is well-marked.
Yes, the trailhead is conveniently located off Olympic Hot Springs Road, and signage is generally good. It's a popular stop for those exploring the Olympic Peninsula.
You can bike in for a few miles on the road leading to the falls if you prefer a more active approach.
The drive along Olympic Hot Springs Road offers scenic views of the Elwha River valley. Be aware that road conditions can vary, especially further up the road.
Absolutely! Madison Falls is often included in popular Olympic National Park routes, alongside Lake Crescent and the Hoh Rainforest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Madison Falls is located within Olympic National Park, so a valid park pass is required for entry. You can purchase passes at visitor centers or online.
Beyond the Olympic National Park entrance fee, there are no additional fees specifically for visiting Madison Falls.
Madison Falls is accessible year-round during park hours. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Olympic National Park website for any temporary closures or alerts.
No, tickets or reservations are not required for Madison Falls itself, only the general park entrance pass.
Visiting during weekdays or early mornings, especially outside of peak summer season, can help you avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is very short, typically less than 0.2 miles roundtrip, and features a paved, accessible trail.
Yes, the paved path makes it very stroller-friendly and accessible for people of all abilities.
The main trail is paved and flat. You can also venture off the paved path to explore the creek bed and surrounding mossy areas.
Yes, there are restrooms located near the trailhead, which visitors have noted as being surprisingly fragrant.
Swimming is generally not recommended directly at the base of the falls due to safety and conservation reasons. However, the nearby Elwha River basin offers areas for exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the falls offers classic waterfall shots, while the moss-covered trees along the paved path provide enchanting forest photography opportunities.
Morning light can be beautiful, filtering through the trees. Overcast days can also be great for capturing the lush greenery and avoiding harsh shadows.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Madison Falls, especially with its easy accessibility.
Drones are generally prohibited in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current park regulations.
You can capture wide shots of the river, reflections, and the surrounding natural landscape. It's a great spot for landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a fantastic way to introduce children to the beauty of waterfalls and the Pacific Northwest without the challenge of a long hike. The easy access means less fuss and more enjoyment for everyone involved.
🚶♀️ Mobility-Impaired Visitors
The short distance and gentle incline mean that even those with limited mobility can experience the magic of this natural wonder. It's a prime example of an accessible attraction within Olympic National Park.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting in the morning for softer light filtering through the canopy, or on an overcast day to enhance the rich colors and avoid harsh shadows. The nearby Elwha River basin also provides opportunities for wider landscape shots, capturing the power and beauty of the river.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Elwha Valley
Visitors often describe the feeling of stepping into a fairytale here, with the lush, moss-draped forests creating an almost magical atmosphere. The accessibility of Madison Falls means that this enchanting environment is available to almost everyone, making it a must-visit for its sheer natural charm and the story of its restoration.
Beyond the falls, the Elwha River basin offers opportunities for gentle exploration. You can walk along the riverbanks, enjoy a picnic, or even bike in for a few miles if you're looking for a bit more activity. It's a perfect example of how accessible nature can be within Olympic National Park.
Accessibility and Ease of Access
Many visitors highlight that even if you veer off the main path, the surrounding creek and nature areas are still easily explorable. This allows for a more immersive experience without requiring strenuous effort. The proximity of the parking lot to the river basin also makes it convenient for a quick stop or a leisurely picnic.
The ease of access means Madison Falls is an ideal stop for day-trippers or those on a broader Olympic National Park itinerary. It provides a significant natural reward for minimal physical exertion, embodying the park's commitment to making its wonders available to all.
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