Ladder Creek Falls

Getting There

Drive SR-20 to Newhalem. At the east end of town, turn south onto Commissary St, then left onto Ladder Creek Lane, and continue to the parking lot on the right near the suspension bridge to the powerhouse.

On the Trail

Cross a suspension bridge, then climb to two different viewpoints of Ladder Creek Falls. To get to the second viewpoint, hike the short trail using the gravel switchbacks or following the stairs with handrails. There are also beautiful gardens to visit. The trails allow for hiking out and back or hiking a loop.

information for leaders

Courses, paid clinics, staff-led programs, and course field trips require a Commercial Use Authorization. The Park typically accepts applications for 2-year CUAs  through mid-March each year, and CUA's are activity-specific. Please contact info@mountaineers.org if you would like to apply for a CUA for a field trip or paid clinic for an activity we do not already have a CUA for. Please follow all Mountaineers group guidelines when leading trips or courses in North Cascades National Park. 

Notes:

• Leaders are responsible for securing backcountry permits or other required permits even if  we have a CUA.
• Leaders must have all relevant CUAs with them in paper or electronic copy to show Parks Staff as requested. 
• All Hiking course field trips or paid clinics must have a First aid and CPR certified leader. Current (non-expired) certificates must be uploaded to the park web portal by Mountaineers staff prior to the trip
• All mountaineering field trips or paid clinics must have a WFR-certified leader and a leader with documented climbing certifications (an AMGA certification OR Mountaineers climb leader with a recent resume of training and experience). Both qualifications must be uploaded to the park web portal by Mountaineers staff prior to the trip

View list of current North Cascades CUAs

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking, Naturalist, Photography
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 0.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 75 ft
• High Point: 660 ft

• Land Manager: North Cascades National Park
• Parking Permit Required: None
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12