
Tenmile Falls
Central CascadesBest Jun–Sep
A family-friendly waterfall hike from Holden Village through recovering burn forest with views of Copper Peak and Mount Fernow.
About This Trail
Tenmile Falls is the most approachable hike from Holden Village: a moderate out-and-back through the Railroad Creek valley to a scenic waterfall with a viewing platform. The trail passes through areas burned in the 2015 Wolverine Fire, which means open views of the surrounding peaks but limited shade on hot days. Copper Peak and Mount Fernow frame the valley on either side.
The route follows Tenmile Creek through recovering forest of aspen and Douglas fir. Wildflowers fill the gaps between standing snags in summer, and the birding is good in the burn zone. The falls themselves are the obvious turnaround point for most visitors, but the trail continues up Tenmile Creek toward Hilgard Pass for those looking to extend the day or connect to a multi-day route toward Stehekin via Company Creek.
This is a solid pick for families staying at Holden Village or for hikers looking for a half-day outing between bigger objectives. Be mindful of dead trees in the burn area, especially on windy days, as snags can come down without warning. Deer and bear are regularly spotted along the creek.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Nice short trail from Holden Village to a nice waterfall with views of the Railroad creek valley and mountain views of Copper and Fernow.”
Last report: Aug 23, 2025
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- dead standing trees (snags) in burn area, especially dangerous in wind
- bear and deer encounters along creek
Getting There
No traditional parking. Holden Village is accessed via the Lady of the Lake ferry to Lucerne, then an 11-mile bus ride on FR 8301. Trail departs from the village. A toilet is available at the trailhead.
The trail leaves from the Tenmile Falls Trailhead in Holden Village and follows Tenmile Creek upstream. The grade is gentle and the route is straightforward with no junctions until well past the falls. The viewing platform marks the waterfall and the natural turnaround for most hikers.
Morning or late afternoon avoids the worst heat in the burn zone. The round trip to the falls takes most families 2 to 3 hours. Those continuing toward Hilgard Pass should plan for a full day or overnight.
Recent Reports
Nice short trail from Holden Village to a nice waterfall with views of the Railroad creek valley and mountain views of Copper and Fernow. The trail can be hot during the day as most of the trail is in old burn scar.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly This was supposed to be an overnight hike from Holden Village via Hilgard Pass to Stehekin, going up Ten Mile Creek and down Company Creek. The trail up Ten Mile Creek to Hilgard Pass is gorgeous.
Blog version (disclaimers) Access: Tenmile Falls Trailhead One Way: 29. 4 miles Elevation Range: 3240′-7880′ Gear: helmet, multi-night Dog-Friendly: no on Black Tower Route Walk the Tenmile Falls Trail in Holden Village to the waterfall and continue on Temmile Creek Trail.
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