Rocky Brook Falls is a 345-foot tiered horsetail waterfall on Rocky Brook near Brinnon in Jefferson County, Washington. It sits on private land beside a hydroelectric plant, and the short path to its base has been closed for construction.
The falls
The falls counts four tiers totaling 345 feet. Only the lowest is seen from below: a narrow, veiling horsetail of 239 feet, about 25 feet wide, that pours into a pool at its base. The three upper tiers are hidden in the gorge above.
Getting there
Rocky Brook Falls is on private property, with public access allowed at the hydro company's discretion. The trail has been closed for construction, with the closure expected to last through summer 2026; a reopening hasn't been announced.
From Brinnon, follow Highway 101 north about 2/3 mile and turn onto Dosewallips Road for 3 miles to the Rocky Brook Bridge. Park on the left beyond the bridge, safely away from traffic. The walk past the hydroelectric facility is about 200 yards, flat and easy, 0.1 mile round trip.
When to go
A hydroelectric diversion installed upstream in 1986 takes part of the flow, but the falls still run year-round, averaging about 35 cubic feet per second for seven months of the year and about 5 for the other five. The falls are at their best in high water.
On site
The pool at the base has been a popular summer swimming spot, though the rocks around it are slippery. The terrain above the main drop is steep, dangerous and off-limits.
History and name
The falls were once known as Idlewild Falls.
Nearby
Mile And A Half Creek Falls is about 3.6 miles away, Falls View Falls about 4.8 miles, and Murhut Falls about 6 miles.
Distances are straight-line.