Tucked away in the Clearwater National Forest is a heavenly waterfall hike that will have you hooked from the moment you step on the trail. Not only does this trail boast views of the spectacular North Idaho scenery, but it ultimately leads you to three separate waterfalls that together comprise the tallest cascade in the state—Elk Creek Falls. Seeing this waterfall paradise is a must for any nature lover, so here’s all you need to know about this dreamy hike:
Hiding out just 50-miles east of Moscow is the tallest waterfall in the state of Idaho. Composed of three individually gorgeous cascades, Elk Creek Falls is beyond stunning and worth seeking out on this short and sweet hiking trail.
The Elk Creek Falls Trail is a well-maintained hiking trail that meanders through the forest before treating you to the glorious cascades of the waterfall. It's just a 2.6-mile loop trail and it's rated as moderate.
You'll find the trailhead at the Elk Creek Falls Recreation Area. To get there from Moscow, travel east on Highway 8 through Troy, Deary, and Bovill. Around 11-miles after Bovill, turn right on FS Road 1452 and follow it to the recreation area parking lot.
The developed Forest Service trail is easy to follow and takes you past lush forest scenery as you descend toward Elk Creek. After half a mile, you'll arrive at an area where spur trails branch off to each of the cascades: Upper Elk Creek Falls, Middle Elk Creek Falls, and Lower Elk Creek Falls.
The trail to Upper Elk Creek Falls is especially steep and switchbacked, but you'll love the view of this small yet beautiful cascade. During the summertime, the pool at the bottom of the upper falls transforms into a popular swimming hole.
The spur trail to Middle Elk Creek Falls is short and only modestly sloped. It leads you to an especially brilliant overlook where you can view the tallest of the three cascades.
Finally, the trail to Lower Elk Creek Falls results in an impressive view of a 50-foot cascade gushing through exposed basalt columns. Three breathtaking waterfalls accessible via a single trail—not a bad deal, if you ask us! Check out the trail map for Elk Creek Falls here.
