This Natural Wonder in Washington Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

If you are like me, it is impossible to name your favorite natural wonder in the Evergreen State. I love destinations like Palouse Falls, Hoh Rain Forest, and the Columbia River Gorge. However, thousands of other people also love these incredible places, resulting in large crowds no matter the time of the year. That’s why Ladder Creek Falls must be on your bucket list. This is a natural wonder tucked behind a powerhouse in Newhalem. It’s the definition of a true hidden gem in Washington and a place you’ll be grateful to have discovered.

Located on the Skagit River and along the North Cascades Highway is the small community of Newhalem. This charming place on the foothills of the North Cascades is beautiful in every way and an area you’ll immediately love. It is also an outdoor lover’s playground as you’ll find many trails and paths that take you through various terrains and to breathtaking landscapes. Some of these trails include the Rock Shelter Trail, Sterling Munro Viewpoint, and the “Trail of the Cedars” Nature Walk.

Ladder Creek Falls Trail is an easy and family-friendly trail in the area that takes you to one of our favorite natural wonders — Ladder Creek Falls. You’ll find the trailhead along Highway 20 at milepost 120, right across the river from the Gorge Powerhouse.

There is so much to love and admire on this family-friendly trail — It is truly a breathtaking place to visit. This is a loop trail that is approximately 0.5 miles and has very little elevation gain. At the start of your journey, you’ll walk across a narrow suspension bridge to the other side of the Skagit River. You may want to stop and admire the views of the powerhouse, the river, and the surrounding scenery from the bridge. It’s really quite stunning.

Behind the powerhouse, you’ll notice a garden and thick, beautiful trees. If you visit in the spring and summer, stop and admire the wildflowers that cover the ground. In the fall, the area transforms with reds, yellows, and gold leaves. The loop trail takes you through this beautiful space. It is short but be prepared for lots of stairs to climb.

In little time, you’ll come to the highlight of the trail — Ladder Creek Falls. This waterfall is truly a sight to behold as it is tucked up in the mountain and surrounded by trees and shrubbery. If you really want to see a remarkable sight, come in the spring when it truly roars.

Despite being a short path, you may not even pass another person along your way. This is a quiet trail.

Ladder Creek Falls is not only a beautiful waterfall but its surroundings are gorgeous. It may not be as popular as other natural wonders in Washington, but it will leave you impressed. It’s the perfect family-friendly adventure.

To learn even more about the Ladder Creek Falls Trails, visit AllTrails. We also recommend AllTrails+ to find even more hidden gem hiking trails in Washington.

What are some of your favorite hikes in the Evergreen State? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you. And don’t forget to check out some of our favorite hiking water bottles and snacks!