Four Itchy Feet

July 9, 2025. Brinnon, Washington. Day 49 of 170

Today was a rest day, but not without a short visit to a nearby waterfall. We took a brief walk to Rocky Brook Falls. The falls are unique in the incredible access they provide visitors. Access to the falls is a five-minute walk, or 200 yards, from the roadside parking on Dosewallips Road off Highway 101. Once there, we were able to scale a few rocks to its very bottom, where a crystal-clear plunge pool has formed.

The falls are on private property, specifically belonging to the Rocky Brook Hydroelectric Facility. However, the owners are gracious enough to allow public access to the trail.

Rocky Brook Falls is quite tall, with estimates ranging from over 200 feet to as much as 345 feet in total, though the visible portion is around 229 feet. It drops in a “horsetail” or “veiling” fashion, fanning out over a wide rock wall. It has multiple drops, though the upper ones aren’t easily visible. The falls flow year-round, even with a small hydroelectric diversion upstream. The falls’ surroundings are lush and green, with abundant ferns and large trees, creating a picturesque environment. The constant pounding of the falling water creates a noisy and impressive atmosphere. You can simply find a rock that closely matches the contour of your body, lay down, and take in the sounds. Watch your step as you get close to the base; the rocks and fallen trees around the base of the falls can be very slippery due to constant spray.

The weather is changing, and nearby fires are restricting access to some trails, but there is still plenty to do at Olympic National Park. Rocky Brook Falls is a beautiful and easily accessible waterfall, a welcoming detour for anyone driving the east side of Olympic National Park.