While driving along the Hood Canal and passing through the Olympic National Forest’s eastern panhandle, give your legs a stretch and take advantage of rejuvenating views. Falls View is a campground, however, it also offers a waterfall that cascades into the Big Quilcene River. Unlike many other places in the park, entrance is free. Since this is also a campsite there is a fee of $ 10 if you choose to stay the night. This is a second-growth forest canyon among spring blooming rhododendrons, lilies, and honeysuckle. Two short trails for the price of one: –Fallsview Loop Trail: This is a short jaunt for all ages interested in beautiful views. It loops back around to the start of the trail. The distance is only 0.1 miles and elevation is 440 feet. I highly recommend it for a photo opportunity! –Fallsview Canyon Trail: This trail takes you from the Falls View down to the floor of the canyon. Unfortunately, the trail does not bring you to the base of the falls to bathe or get a view from below. Instead, you’re greeted with the bustling Big Quilcene River which has carved the canyon over hundreds of years. The trail quickly dips 200 feet of elevation in 0.1 mile. Keep in mind that grades are up to 10−20% in some spots and what you go down, you must come up. After 0.5 miles, there is a deceptive separate trail that splits leftward, but it’s the end/beginning of the same trail which loops back around. The entire trail is 1.5 miles and in very good condition and maintained by the Mount Rose Trail Crew. Directions: From Quilcene, WA, travel 3.5 miles south on U.S. Highway 101. Falls View Campground is located on west side of U.S. Highway 101. If it is during the winter, you can park outside the gate and walk in(refer to image). Take a quick left and continue forward past the campground and picnic area. Fallsview Canyon Trail starts left of the parking area and goes downhill to the river. Fallsview Loop Trail’s entrance is just to the right of that.
