Bird Creek Falls

The feel

The trail follows an ATV trail from Bird Valley to a bluff overlooking a rocky gorge, then winds down a steep slope to the waterfall. The falls are a cascade rushing through that gorge, a little more than 1.5 miles up from the mouth of Bird Creek.

Most of the walk is flat forest, with two steep drops in the last half mile. Expect muddy sections, some scrambling and trail-finding near the end, and bears along the creek in salmon season.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 3.6 to 3.7 miles total, with 213 to 351 ft of gain; mostly flat forest, then a steep slope to the falls.

Time

About 1 h 23 min to 1.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Popular for hiking and running; June through August is best for a visit.

Parking

Take Konikson Road, which begins around milepost 101, 0.6 miles to the trailhead and parking.

Fees and passes

No fee at this trailhead.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Kids

Rated easy and kid friendly.

Hazards

Muddy sections, steep descents, icy patches and bears along the creek in salmon season.

Season and access

Best from June through August.

Mingo says

Go in June through August, and take the descent to the falls slowly. Keep bears in mind during salmon season.

Before you go

• Wear sturdy footwear for the mud and the steep last half mile.
• Keep dogs on a leash.
• Watch your footing on icy patches, which call for caution.
• Drive Konikson Road 0.6 miles to the trailhead; there is no fee.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.