The Ohanapecosh River may be the most picturesque stream in the park, with its crystal-clear waters, moss-laden banks, and tall forests above. One of the prettiest sections of this most attractive river is Silver Falls. This sparkling cascade tumbles over a jagged, rocky ledge, creating a noisy splash full of silver streamers and frothy white water. The trail to the falls draws lots of hikers of all ages and abilities since it is relatively flat, well graded, and easily accessible. Don't let the masses get you down, though, since even on the busiest Saturday afternoons, this hike is well worth the effort.


The hike starts from the visitor center on an interpretive trail, but at 0.2 mile, you veer right onto the Silver Falls Trail to continue up the east side of the Ohanapecosh River. The trail is relatively flat and well maintained as it ambles north through the moss-laden forests flanking the river. The path stays above the river most of the way, with only occasional views of the pretty stream.

At about 1.7 miles, the trail reaches a junction with the Laughingwater Creek Trail. Stay left (straight) and in just a few moments the trail curves toward the river, dropping onto a sturdy footbridge that spans the narrow, rocky gorge of the river just below the falls. From the bridge deck, you have fantastic views of the cascade. Stop for pictures--then hold tight to your camera as you peer straight down into the depths of the clear pool below the falls.

After crossing the river, the trail climbs a few yards to join the Eastside Trail. Turn left to follow the river back downstream (to the right, the Eastside Trail reaches the Stevens Canyon Road trailhead in about 0.5 mile). In a mile, you pop out of the forest onto the back loop of Ohanapecosh Campground. Walk the road back across the river (the road bridge spans a beautiful, deep pool in a rocky bowl) to reach the visitor center parking lot after 3 miles of walking.