Crystal Falls
Crystal Falls, a serene cascade located along the Colville-Tiger Road, offers a refreshing pause from the journey, just 20 minutes outside Colville, WA. This roadside gem reveals the Little Pend Oreille River as it gracefully descends over 60 feet through a series of cascades, culminating in a dramatic 30-foot drop. The falls are a picturesque sight, accessible via a scenic viewing deck that accommodates visitors of all ages. While the main viewpoint and picnic area are easily reachable, a trail system skirts the area, offering adventurous souls a glimpse from the precipice into the lush canyon below. Crystal Falls embodies the tranquil beauty of Eastern Washington’s landscapes, making it an essential stop for nature lovers and road trippers alike.
The Drive
Located just 15 miles from Colville, Crystal Falls is a quintessential stop on any waterfall tour in the region, easily accessible along the scenic WA-20 Colville-Tiger Road.
The Hike
With no hike required, visitors can enjoy the falls just a few hundred feet from the roadside pull-out. Note: A series of steps to the viewing platform are not wheelchair accessible.
The Falls
Crystal Falls captivates with its 60-foot descent into a canyon adorned with seasonal foliage, presenting a year-round spectacle of natural beauty.
Don’t Forget
A “Namaste” sign near the falls invites visitors to embrace the tranquility of the site, encouraging respect for the peace and preservation of the falls.
Surrounding Area
Acting as a midpoint along WA-20 Colville-Tiger Road, Crystal Falls is surrounded by the enchanting wilderness of Northeast Washington. The pass is home to hidden gems like Gillette Lake, Lake Thomas, and Lake Leo, each offering scenic campgrounds and trailheads into the Colville National Forest. Popular for Nordic skiing and winter sports, areas like the Mill Butte Trail and Frater Lake Sno-Park become hubs of activity, showcasing the region’s appeal across seasons.
Nearby Attractions
Crystal Falls serves as an ideal centerpiece for a waterfall exploration day trip, linking with Sweet Creek Falls to the east and Douglas Falls to the west. This loop allows visitors to experience three of Eastern Washington’s most accessible falls in a single journey. Beyond waterfalls, the region boasts a wealth of outdoor activities, from skiing at 49 Degrees North near Chewelah to exploring the vast landscapes of the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area or the untamed beauty of the Salmo-Priest Wilderness near Sullivan Lake.
