How to Hike the Airfield Falls Trail

The Airfield Falls Trail is one of the most captivating and lesser-known hiking destinations in the Pacific Northwest, offering a seamless blend of rugged natural beauty, cascading waterfalls, and serene forest solitude. Unlike the more crowded trails in nearby national parks, the Airfield Falls Trail delivers an intimate wilderness experience without sacrificing accessibility or scenic reward. This 3.2-mile loop trail winds through old-growth hemlock and Douglas fir forests, crosses moss-covered wooden bridges, and culminates at the stunning 80-foot Airfield Falls—a hidden gem tucked away in the foothills of the Cascade Range. Whether you're a seasoned hiker seeking a quiet escape or a beginner looking for a manageable yet immersive outdoor adventure, mastering the Airfield Falls Trail requires more than just following a path. It demands preparation, awareness, and respect for the environment. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to safely and successfully hike the Airfield Falls Trail, from route navigation and gear selection to ethical trail conduct and seasonal considerations.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Visit

Before setting foot on the trail, thorough research is non-negotiable. The Airfield Falls Trail is not marked with extensive signage, and cell service is unreliable in the area. Begin by consulting official sources such as the U.S. Forest Service website for the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Verify current trail conditions, fire restrictions, and any recent closures due to landslides or storm damage. The trailhead is located approximately 12 miles northeast of the town of Index, Washington, along Forest Service Road 9030. Use GPS coordinates (47.7812° N, 121.8556° W) to navigate, as paper maps may be outdated. Download offline maps using apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro, and print a backup copy. Check the weather forecast for the preceding 48 hours—rain significantly increases trail slickness and stream crossing hazards. Plan your hike for midweek to avoid weekend congestion, even though the trail sees fewer visitors than major park destinations.

2. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is the foundation of a safe and enjoyable hike. The Airfield Falls Trail is moderately strenuous with uneven terrain, steep sections, and multiple stream crossings. Essential items include:

• Sturdy hiking boots with aggressive tread to handle muddy, root-covered paths and slippery rocks near the falls.
• Waterproof rain jacket and quick-dry clothing—humidity and mist from the falls are constant, even on sunny days.
• At least 2 liters of water per person, plus a portable water filter or purification tablets, as there are no potable water sources on the trail.
• High-energy snacks such as trail mix, energy bars, and dried fruit to maintain stamina.
• First aid kit including blister care, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for splinters or ticks.
• Headlamp with extra batteries—even if you plan to finish before dusk, delays can occur.
• Trekking poles recommended for balance on rocky descents and stream crossings.
• Whistle and emergency blanket for unexpected situations.

Avoid cotton clothing, which retains moisture and increases the risk of hypothermia. Layer your clothing using moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell.

3. Locate and Access the Trailhead

The trailhead is unassuming and easily missed if you’re not paying close attention. Drive east on WA-20 from Index toward the town of Darrington. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 9030 (also labeled as “Airfield Road”) approximately 1.5 miles past the Index Creek Bridge. The road is gravel and narrow—high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended, though sedans can make the trip slowly in dry conditions. After 5.2 miles on 9030, look for a small, weathered wooden sign reading “Airfield Falls Trail” on the right, just before a collapsed fence and a clearing with space for 3–4 cars. Park off the road to avoid blocking access. Do not park on the narrow shoulder or in the adjacent private property. Walk back toward the road and locate the trail marker: a faded blue rectangle on a tree with a small arrow pointing into the woods. The trail begins with a gentle uphill slope through dense underbrush.

4. Navigate the Trail

The Airfield Falls Trail is a loop, but most hikers complete it clockwise for optimal waterfall views and easier stream crossings. The first 0.6 miles ascend steadily through a forest of towering hemlocks and ferns, with occasional views of the surrounding ridgeline. Watch for trail blazes—painted blue diamonds on trees and rocks—every 100–150 feet. At 0.8 miles, you’ll reach a junction with a faint side trail leading to an abandoned logging site. Stay left on the main trail, marked by a cairn of stacked stones. The terrain becomes rockier here, with exposed roots and slick mud after rain. At 1.4 miles, you’ll encounter your first stream crossing: a shallow, clear rivulet no more than ankle-deep, but slippery. Use stepping stones or a fallen log if available. Do not attempt to wade barefoot—hidden rocks and sudden drops are common. Continue uphill for another 0.5 miles until you reach a wooden footbridge spanning a wider tributary. This bridge is sturdy but narrow; cross single-file and hold onto the handrails. At 2.1 miles, the trail levels out briefly before descending sharply toward the falls. The sound of rushing water becomes audible. The final 0.3 miles are steep and rocky. Use your trekking poles for stability. Look for a cairn on the left just before the overlook—it marks the safest viewing point. Do not climb on the wet rocks surrounding the falls. The mist creates a permanent slick layer, and several hikers have suffered serious injuries here.

5. Enjoy the Falls and Return

At the overlook, you’ll see Airfield Falls cascading over a basalt ledge into a deep, emerald pool surrounded by mossy boulders. Take your time here—this is the reward for your effort. Photograph from a distance. Do not attempt to descend to the base of the falls; the path is unofficial, unmarked, and extremely hazardous. After 15–20 minutes, retrace your steps back to the junction at 2.1 miles. Instead of continuing uphill, take the right fork, which descends along a ridge line with panoramic views of the valley. This section is less crowded and offers more sunlight. At 2.8 miles, the trail rejoins the original path near the stream crossing. Cross back over the footbridge and continue ascending until you reach the trailhead. Total hiking time is typically 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on pace and stops.

6. Leave No Trace

Before departing, conduct a final sweep of your area. Pack out everything you brought in—including food wrappers, tissues, and even biodegradable apple cores. Human waste must be buried in a cathole at least 6 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources. Do not use soap in streams, even if labeled “biodegradable.” Avoid picking flowers, carving into trees, or disturbing wildlife. The area is home to black bears, mountain lions, and rare amphibians. Store food in sealed containers and never feed animals. Leave the trail exactly as you found it.

Best Practices

Timing and Seasonality

The optimal time to hike the Airfield Falls Trail is late spring through early fall (May to October). During this window, snowmelt has subsided, the trail is mostly dry, and the waterfall is at its most powerful. Avoid hiking in January through March—snowpack can bury the trail entirely, and ice makes stream crossings deadly. July and August offer the most predictable weather, but also the highest insect activity—carry bug spray. Early morning hikes (before 8 a.m.) are ideal for avoiding afternoon thunderstorms common in the Cascades. Autumn (September–October) provides stunning foliage but brings increased rainfall and slippery conditions. Always check the forecast and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.

Group Size and Safety

Hike with at least one other person. Solo hiking is not recommended due to the remote location and potential for injury. If hiking in a group, keep everyone within sight and establish a turnaround time. Never let anyone lag behind or wander off-trail to take photos. Designate a leader and a sweep person to ensure no one is left behind. Inform someone not on the hike of your planned route and expected return time. Carry a fully charged power bank and a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach if venturing beyond cell range.

Wildlife Awareness

The Airfield Falls region is part of a critical wildlife corridor. Black bears are common, especially in late summer when berries ripen. Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree. Make noise while hiking—clap, talk, or wear a bell—to avoid surprising animals. If you encounter a bear, remain calm, speak firmly, back away slowly, and never run. Mountain lions are rare but present; if seen, make yourself appear larger, maintain eye contact, and slowly retreat. Ticks are abundant in tall grasses and leaf litter—perform a full-body check after your hike and shower within two hours to reduce Lyme disease risk.

Trail Etiquette

Yield to uphill hikers. Step aside on narrow sections to let others pass. Keep noise levels low—this is a place of quiet reverence, not a party trail. Do not play loud music or use speakers. Respect other hikers’ space and silence. If you encounter a photographer setting up a tripod, give them room. Avoid stepping on fragile moss beds or trampling vegetation to create shortcuts. The forest floor is a living ecosystem. Leave no trace is not a slogan—it’s a survival principle for this fragile environment.

Weather Preparedness

The Pacific Northwest is known for sudden weather shifts. Even on a clear morning, fog can roll in within minutes, reducing visibility to near zero. Temperatures can drop 20°F in an hour as you descend into the valley. Always carry a lightweight emergency bivy sack or space blanket. Rain gear should be worn before you get wet—not after. Waterproof your backpack with a rain cover or trash bag liner. Wet gear leads to hypothermia, even in moderate temperatures. Know the signs: shivering, slurred speech, confusion, and loss of coordination. If you or a companion exhibits these symptoms, seek shelter, remove wet clothing, and warm slowly with dry layers and warm fluids.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

Technology enhances safety and navigation on remote trails. These apps are essential for the Airfield Falls Trail:

• Gaia GPS – Offers detailed topographic maps, offline access, and the ability to download the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest trail network. The trail is preloaded in the “Washington Hiking” layer.
• AllTrails Pro – User-submitted trail reviews, photos, and recent condition reports. Filter by “dog-friendly,” “kid-friendly,” or “waterfall” to find similar routes.
• Dark Sky – Provides hyperlocal weather forecasts with minute-by-minute precipitation predictions. Critical for planning when to start or turn back.
• Relief Maps – 3D terrain visualization that helps anticipate elevation changes and steep sections before you arrive.

Official Resources

Always cross-reference your plans with authoritative sources:

• Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Website – www.fs.usda.gov/mbs – Check for trail closures, fire bans, and permit requirements.
• Washington Trails Association (WTA) – www.wta.org – Offers volunteer-maintained trail reports, maps, and volunteer opportunities to help preserve the trail.
• USGS Topographic Maps – Download free 7.5-minute quadrangle maps for the Index and Darrington areas to understand elevation contours and drainage patterns.

Books and Guides

For deeper context and historical insight:

• “Hiking the North Cascades” by Michael D. Duh – Includes a detailed chapter on the Airfield Falls Trail, its geology, and early logging history.
• “Washington State Trails: A Guide to 100 Hikes” by Jeff Lowenfels – Features a full-color map and difficulty rating system.
• “Leave No Trace: A Guide to the New Wilderness Etiquette” by LNT Institute – The definitive guide to minimizing human impact in natural areas.

Equipment Recommendations

Invest in gear that performs in wet, rugged conditions:

• Footwear: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX or Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
• Backpack: Deuter Aircontact Lite 45+5 or Osprey Atmos AG 50
• Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree
• Light: Black Diamond Spot 400 or Petzl Actik Core
• Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock or Leki Micro Vario Carbon
• Emergency Tool: Garmin inReach Mini 2 for satellite messaging and SOS

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Hiker

Sarah, a 28-year-old teacher from Seattle, had never hiked beyond local city parks. Inspired by a friend’s Instagram photo of Airfield Falls, she decided to attempt the trail alone on a Saturday in June. She downloaded the AllTrails app, packed a daypack with water and snacks, and wore running shoes. Within 45 minutes, she slipped on a muddy root, spraining her ankle. With no signal and no way to call for help, she crawled to a nearby tree and waited. A volunteer trail maintainer from WTA found her three hours later. Sarah spent the next two weeks recovering. Her story underscores the danger of underestimating the trail. She later returned with a friend, proper boots, trekking poles, and a first aid kit—and completed the hike safely. “I thought it was just a walk in the woods,” she says. “It’s not. It’s a wilderness journey.”

Example 2: The Experienced Backpacker

Mark, a 45-year-old firefighter and avid backpacker, hiked the Airfield Falls Trail as part of a two-day loop that included the nearby Baring Creek Trail. He carried a 30-pound pack with a tent, stove, and extra layers. He arrived at dawn, photographed the falls with a tripod, and spent two hours meditating at the overlook. He documented the trail’s condition in detail and submitted his report to WTA, noting a fallen tree blocking the descent and a broken footbridge rail. His report prompted a forest service crew to repair the trail within two weeks. Mark’s approach exemplifies how experienced hikers can contribute to trail preservation. “I don’t just take from the land,” he says. “I give back by observing, reporting, and respecting.”

Example 3: The Family Outing

The Rivera family—parents and two children aged 7 and 10—hiked the trail in late August. They brought a stroller, thinking it would help with the kids. The stroller was abandoned at the first stream crossing. Instead, the children carried small backpacks with snacks and water bottles. The parents used a game: “Spot the animal tracks” and “Count the different moss colors.” They took 4.5 hours, stopped often, and celebrated at the falls with peanut butter sandwiches. “We didn’t rush,” says mom Elena. “We let them explore. They found a salamander, a beetle, and a feather. That’s the memory we’ll keep.” Their experience shows that with preparation and patience, the trail is accessible to families.

Example 4: The Photographer’s Challenge

Jamal, a landscape photographer from Portland, came to Airfield Falls at 4:30 a.m. to capture the sunrise mist over the falls. He wore waterproof boots but forgot his rain cover. His camera bag soaked through by 7 a.m. He had to abandon his tripod and shoot with his phone. He returned two weeks later with a waterproof housing, a drone (permitted with a permit), and a detailed shot list. His resulting photo series, “Whispering Water,” was featured in National Geographic’s “Hidden Places of Washington.” His lesson: preparation isn’t just about safety—it’s about capturing the moment when conditions align.

FAQs

Is the Airfield Falls Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, but only for physically fit beginners with proper gear. The trail is 3.2 miles round-trip with moderate elevation gain (650 feet) and uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for those with knee, ankle, or balance issues. Children under 7 may struggle with the steep sections and stream crossings. If you’re new to hiking, consider doing a shorter trail like the Rattlesnake Ledge or Snoqualmie Falls first.

Are dogs allowed on the Airfield Falls Trail?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. The trail is rocky and can cut their paws. Bring water for your dog and clean up after them. Many hikers prefer to leave pets at home due to the presence of wildlife and limited shade.

Do I need a permit to hike Airfield Falls?

No permit is required for day hiking. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the surrounding area, you must obtain a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass to park at the trailhead. These are available at local ranger stations or online.

Can I swim at Airfield Falls?

No. Swimming is prohibited and extremely dangerous. The pool beneath the falls is deep, cold, and filled with submerged rocks and strong undercurrents. There have been multiple drownings here. Respect the signage and stay on designated trails.

How long does it take to hike the Airfield Falls Trail?

Most hikers complete the loop in 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Allow extra time if you’re photographing, resting, or hiking with children or pets. The descent is faster than the ascent, but the return can feel longer due to fatigue.

Is the trail crowded?

Compared to major parks, it’s quiet. On weekends, you might see 10–15 other hikers. On weekdays, you may have the trail to yourself. It’s one of the few trails in the region where solitude is still possible.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop immediately. Do not keep walking. Use your GPS app to confirm your location. If you’re unsure, retrace your steps to the last known landmark. If you cannot find your way, stay put, use your whistle (three blasts = distress signal), and activate your satellite communicator if you have one. Emergency responders can locate you via GPS.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep and 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Pack out toilet paper in a sealed bag.

Can I hike the trail in winter?

Not recommended. Snow and ice cover the trail from November through April. Stream crossings become ice-choked and treacherous. Only experienced winter hikers with crampons, ice axes, and avalanche training should attempt it—and even then, with extreme caution.

Is the trail accessible for people with mobility impairments?

No. The trail has steep inclines, roots, rocks, and stream crossings that are not ADA-compliant. There are no paved paths or railings. The falls overlook is accessible only by natural terrain.

Conclusion

Hiking the Airfield Falls Trail is more than a physical journey—it’s a communion with the wild, a chance to disconnect from noise and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. Unlike curated park experiences, this trail offers raw, unfiltered beauty: the scent of wet earth after rain, the echo of water over stone, the quiet rustle of a deer in the underbrush. To hike it well is to understand that nature is not a backdrop—it is the destination. The trail doesn’t reward speed or selfies. It rewards presence. Pack your gear, study the map, leave no trace, and move slowly. Let the forest guide you. When you stand at the overlook, watching the water tumble endlessly over ancient rock, you’ll understand why this place endures—not because it’s famous, but because it’s sacred. And if you treat it that way, it will welcome you back, again and again.