Tallest Waterfall in the Continental US – is Here in Washington!

In Washington's Whatcom County, Colonial Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in the continental United States.

The people at the World Waterfall Database say the North Cascade waterfall is the tallest in the continental United States and the 15th tallest in the world, exceeding the more renowned Yosemite Falls by 143 feet.

That said. 

Colonial Creek Falls descends from elevation down the face of Colonial Peak, eventually reaching Diablo Lake below via 13 distinct drops. 

So picture this.

Colonial Creek Falls travels nearly one mile horizontally, making its way over 13 waterfall steps and falling 2,568 feet.

Seeing this in person sounds like an early fall drive and hiking trip.

How do we get there to see Colonial Creek Falls? 

OPTION #1: The viewpoint at Ross Dam Trailhead: 

Travel Highway 20 until reaching the Ross Dam Trailhead; you’ll be able to see Colonial Peak Falls from five miles away, falling towards Ross Lake.

OPTION #2: You'll also see the Colonial Creek Falls just past the bridge over the Diablo Arm of Ross Lake - 2 miles before the trailhead.

OPTION #3: The Colonial Creek Falls Trail: If you want a challenging hike with lots of verticals and to get closer, start near Diablo Lake on Highway 20. Climb the rugged trail on the way to Pyramid Lake. You’ll be guided by signs and climb the challenging 1,500 feet to the Lake.  Here, you’ll find Climbers trail, taking you around the lake, then steeply go verticle for two more miles and another 3,000 feet. Climbers’ trails weaves around its edge and descends back to Pyramid Lake.

INFO: ALL TRAILS, WORLD WATERFALL DATABASE