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Coastal stream like Ludlow Creek often don't have any sort of major waterfalls or rapids associated with them, especially in low-lying areas like that around the Hood Canal Bridge. However, with the unique geology of the Olympic Peninsula, anything is possible. This small 25 foot cascade occurs where Ludlow Creek runs across a basalt intrusion - common on the east slopes of the Olympics - literally yards before emptying into Hood Canal. Prior to visiting the falls, I didn't have high expectations of the falls, largely based on a few pictures I'd seen (which turned out to only depict the uppermost part of the cascade. I was pleasantly surprised to find that this is, indeed, a legitimate waterfall. With a short, well designed nature loop trail passing the falls, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this waterfall to visitors looking for a quick leg stretch.
- Ludlow Falls is the Official name of this waterfall.
Located in Port Ludlow, northwest of the Hood Canal Bridge. From the west end of the Hood Canal Bridge, drive west on Highway 104 for about 5 miles to Highway 19, signed for Ports Ludlow and Townsend, and turn right (north). Go 1 ¾ miles and turn right on Oak Bay Road (again, signed for Port Ludlow). Drive 1 ¼ mile and turn right again at the first major road, then immediately left into the parking lot for Ludlow Village (look for a kiosk at the near end). This is public parking, don't try to park elsewhere or you may get towed. From here, continue downhill on foot, heading right at the intersection. After about 1/4 mile the Ludlow Falls Nature Trail branches off to the right. The trail loops through the area, the falls being accessed quickest by staying left at the fork, about 1/4 mile from the road (1/2 mile from the parking lot).
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