Coal Creek Falls
Issaquah AlpsBest Oct–May
A quick forest walk to a 28-foot waterfall on Cougar Mountain, minutes from downtown Bellevue.
About This Trail
Coal Creek Falls sits on the western slopes of Cougar Mountain in the Issaquah Alps, tucked between Bellevue and Newcastle. The 2.5-mile round trip follows well-maintained trails through a dense canopy of maple, alder, and cedar, passing remnants of the area's coal mining history before descending to the falls.
The route starts at the Red Town trailhead, follows Red Town Trail, connects to Cave Hole Trail, then drops the final 0.3 miles on Coal Creek Falls Trail to the base of the waterfall. A 2014 trail reroute by WTA volunteers improved drainage and reduced the mud that previously plagued this section. Historic coal mine openings and deep cave holes line the trail corridor; stay on the marked path.
The waterfall flows strongest during winter rains and typically runs dry from mid-June through early fall. Spring brings wildflowers and the best combination of flowing water and comfortable temperatures. The trailhead fills quickly on weekends, but the trail network connects to other Cougar Mountain routes for extended loops.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Started at the Redtown Trailhead.”
Last report: Apr 16, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazards
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
- Trees Down
Persistent Hazards
- Deep cave holes from historic mining operations along the trail
- Stinging nettle grows along trail edges in spring and summer
- Short steep steps near the falls can be slippery when wet
Getting There
Free parking at the Red Town trailhead on Newcastle-Coal Creek Road. The lot fills quickly on weekends; arrive before 10 AM. Porta-potties, garbage cans, picnic table, and dog waste bag dispensers at the trailhead. Dogs allowed on leash.
From Seattle, take I-90 east to exit 13 (West Lake Sammamish/SE Newport Way). Turn right onto Lakemont Boulevard, drive through the stoplight, and continue 1.8 miles as the road becomes Newcastle-Coal Creek Road. The Red Town trailhead is marked by a blue King County sign at a sharp bend. An alternate start from the Licorice Fern trailhead approaches from the north side.
No time constraints. A morning visit avoids parking pressure on weekends. Visit during or just after rain for the best waterfall flow.
Recent Reports
Beautiful day for a hike. Started at the Redtown Trailhead.
Beautiful first Monday of April for a morning hike! Started at Red Town TH and made a reverse lollipop of Far Country Falls and Coal Creek Falls.
The waterfalls are running with a strong flow during this atmospheric river. I started at the Licorice Fern Trailhead.
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