Closest City to Trailhead:
Metaline Falls, Washington.
Average distance of hike:
1 mile round trip
Why do you recommend it?
If you are seeking an easy off-the -beaten-path hike that includes a stunning multi-tiered waterfall, then this is a must do! For the weary traveller or the hardy day tripper and waterfall hunter, this place has it all. Easy access, yet minimal crowds make this spot absolutely incredible.
What was most noteworthy?
Besides the obvious waterfall as the main attraction, the trail system was very nice and made for a pleasant and mellow hike around the creek and surrounding forest.
Are there restrooms?
Yes! There are well-maintained restrooms at the rest stop parking lot/trailhead.
Story continues after a quick message from our sponsor below.
Know before you go:
Despite the over-the-top warnings about there being a terribly dangerous trail, overall it is well-maintained and fairly easy to navigate. It appears that this trail may have been a loop many years ago but the bridge that crossed the creek has long since fallen down. One thing to keep in mind is that trail users and adventurers wanting to get up close and personal to the falls do so under their own assumption of the risks involved. The rocks can be very slippery when wet and slipping could result in a 30+ foot fall off of a waterfall.
Where to celebrate after?
Grab food at one of several eating establishments in Metaline Falls, Newport or Rathdrum on the way back to Spokane. If you decide to wait until getting back to Rathdrum, Westwood Bar and Grill and O’malley’s Bar and Grill both serve excellent food and drinks.
Story continues after a quick message from our sponsor below.
How do you get there?
Sweet Creek Falls Trailhead – Google Map Location
From Spokane: Drive east on I-90 toward Post Falls to the HWY 41 exit. Take HWY 41 north toward Rathdrum. Turn left at the HWY 41/53 junction then make a right onto N HWY 41. Drive north to Oldtown/Newport. Once in Newport, turn left onto Main Street and follow it out of town to the north. Main Street becomes HWY 20. Stay on HWY 20 for approximately 45 minutes until it becomes HWY 31. Drive through Ione, Wash. and continue on HWY 31. Approximately 10 minutes past Ione and just before Metaline Falls there will be signs showing the turn off for Sweet Creek Falls Rest Area. Turn left off of the highway and park in the rest area parking. Choose one of two major hiking trails, both culminating in a roughly 1 mile hike total.
Nspire Challenge Rating:
- Lazy Sunday Stroll
- Family Adventure
- Average Outdoor Enthusiast
- Bring Your A-Game
- Master Adventurer
As Featured In: 2019 Winter/Spring SPO Edition
