Siouxon Creek

Although this gently rolling creekside ramble is one continuous trail, an adventure in three parts awaits. The first few miles are a quiet walk through a classic fern-dotted, mossy forest. In the second section, hikers find Siouxon Creek and fellow waterfall seekers, and the final miles offer more solitude and small narrow canyons with more waterfalls to enjoy.

The trail to Siouxon Falls, Chinook Falls, and at least three other waterfalls along the way, starts from a subtle trail sign three miles before reaching the main Siouxon Trailhead on FR 5701. Look for a plain trail marker on the left side just after a pull-out on the right after a hairpin right turn. Once you step into the trees, you’ll see the Siouxon Trail No. 130 sign pointing the way to Huffman Peak turnoff (1 mile away) and the main Siouxon trailhead in 3 miles.

You are likely to have this section of trail to yourself as you descend moderate switchbacks in a fern and moss-splashed forest. The trail narrows after the first mile and around the second mile, you’ll navigate a rocky creek crossing, easier in late summer than in spring when the snowmelt makes the water level higher. 

The trail begins to parallel the road again as the main trailhead approaches and it has narrowed and become rockier in places in these last couple of miles.  At three miles, cross the main trailhead and start the second part of your journey.

The trail widens and becomes more traveled here. A sturdy wooden bridge over West Creek awaits shortly after a descent from the trailhead parking. You’ll begin to see dispersed campsites and colorful tents dotting the creekside. Pass the Horseshoe Ridge turn-off a mile after the junction with the main trailhead. You’ll arrive at Horsehoe Falls in another half-mile past this turnoff. Enjoy the view from the log bench after crossing the creek or drop down the spur trail for a more complete view.

Continuing along, at about 5 miles from the start of the Siouxon Trail and 2 miles from the main trailhead, arrive at picturesque Siouxon Falls. If the log bench is taken, grab a seat at one of the other natural log benches nearby. If you’re not quite ready for lunch to turn around, continue along the trail for the third part of your outing.

The trail narrows again after passing Siouxon Falls and you’ll be treated to small canyons and rock outcroppings above the trail. You’ll descend back into fern, clover, and moss-covered environs before climbing back above the creek.

Just shy of 2 miles from Siouxon Falls and 7 miles from the start, you’ll cross 14-Mile Falls either on two log bridges when the water is higher or stepping across its still slippery rock base at lower water levels.

The junction of Chinook Creek Trail #130A is just up ahead, with views of Chinook Falls from the wooden bridge.  Turn around here to repeat the three-part excursion or consider turning off onto Horseshoe Ridge on the way back for elevation and additional miles before returning to Siouxon Trail and the way you came.