Pool of the Winds & Rodney Falls
Rodney Falls, Hardy Falls and the Pool of the Winds are three waterfalls on Hardy Creek, about 1.3 miles up the Hamilton Mountain Trail in Beacon Rock State Park. The round trip from the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead is 2.52 miles with 600 feet of gain, rated moderate. Rodney Falls is right on the main trail at the footbridge over Hardy Creek; short side trails lead to Hardy Falls and the Pool of the Winds.
The Waterfalls at a Glance
How to Get There
Park at the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead and Lower Picnic Area (Discover Pass required) and follow the Hamilton Mountain Trail uphill:
- Start in old-growth Douglas fir.
- In under half a mile, cross under the power lines, with a view of Bonneville Dam.
- Continue nearly another mile of moderate trail to the falls.
From the campground, the Hadley Trail starts beside campsite 10 and joins the same trail. That way is 2.92 miles round trip with 400 feet of gain. See parking and directions.
The Three Falls
- Hardy Falls: reached by a short side trail off the main path.
- Pool of the Winds: a side trail at Rodney Falls leads to it. The agency's trailhead sheet shows the view from here looking down at Rodney Falls.
- Rodney Falls: the main trail crosses Hardy Creek on a footbridge right in front of it.
Going Farther
The footbridge at Rodney Falls is the natural turnaround if you came for the waterfalls. Past it, the trail continues a quarter mile to the Hardy Creek Trail junction and on to the 2,438-foot summit of Hamilton Mountain, 6.4 miles round trip from the trailhead.
When to Go and What to Bring
- Open 8 a.m. to dusk, all year. Backcountry camping is not allowed.
- Footwear: it is a natural-surface trail with a steady climb; wear shoes with grip, especially near the creek.
- Hikers only: no bikes or horses on the Hamilton Mountain Trail.
- Weekends: the trailhead lot is shared with summit hikers, so arrive early in summer.
Good For / Maybe Skip If
Good for: a waterfall hike near Portland that takes a couple of hours, kids who can manage a steady climb, and a cool forest walk on a hot day. Maybe skip if you need a flat or paved path: the Doetsch Walking Path is a level 1.2-mile loop. For a big view without waterfalls, climb the Beacon Rock Trail. More waterfall ideas: waterfalls near Portland.
Pool of the Winds & Rodney Falls FAQ
How long is the hike to Pool of the Winds?
2.52 miles round trip from the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead, with 600 feet of gain. From the Hadley Trailhead in the campground it is 2.92 miles round trip.
Where is Pool of the Winds?
On Hardy Creek in Beacon Rock State Park, Washington, about 1.3 miles up the Hamilton Mountain Trail. A short side trail at Rodney Falls leads to it.
Is the Pool of the Winds hike hard?
Washington State Parks rates it moderate: a steady climb of 600 feet over about 1.3 miles each way.
Do you need a pass to see Rodney Falls?
You need a Discover Pass to park at the trailhead, $10 a day or $45 a year.
Can dogs go to Pool of the Winds?
Washington State Parks allows dogs in the park on a leash no longer than eight feet.