Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
104.00 ft (31.70 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
0.80 mi (1.29 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Mystic Falls is a small waterfall located just 3 miles west of downtown Spokane in Indian Canyon Park. The trail is short and suitable for the whole the family. In the spring, summer, and fall seasons, the trail is easily accessible and moderately trafficked by other hikers. In the winter months, the falls and adjoining creek freeze, which makes it a popular ice climbing destination.

From the parking area, you will already be able to hear the waterfall, even in mid-summer when the water flow is less powerful. There is a multitude of possible descents you could attempt due to a number of obscure and difficult trails. These more ambiguous trails do provide a great view over the falls and canyon, but there is an easier way to access the falls. Follow the wide trail, which will curve around the canyon for around a quarter-mile. On the right, there will be a well-maintained trail heading down into the falls.

The trail is steep at times, but the descent will be short and shaded with dense vegetation. Though still forested with ponderosa pine typical of the area, the flora in this area is more vibrant than many other Spokane trails due to the creek. After a couple of switchbacks, the trail ends at the foot of Mystic Falls. The canyon is walled with large basalt cliffs, similar to other parks in the area. The water cascades from the creek above onto a small outcropping of rocks creating a two-tiered waterfall. The walls on both the left and right of the falls have small caves, which have rock climbing potential. This trail is great for a brief hike for the family, or you can use it as a starting point to a continued adventure in the Indian Canyon natural area.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Short trail. Waterfall. Secluded.

Cons

Limited parking.

Trailhead Elevation

1,977.00 ft (602.59 m)

Highest point

2,081.00 ft (634.29 m)

Features

Waterfalls
Wildlife
Family friendly
Cave
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.