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Gail Falls appears to be one of the taller waterfalls along the Cispus River. The falls plunge 31 feet over a wide ledge before a brief respite, followed by further cascades which could be legitimately be considered part of the falls should a proper survey prove them to be bedrock-based. The falls are located in a well hidden gorge between Cat Creek and Adams Creek, where FSR 21 rises above the river and the forest obstructs any evidence of what may lie below. Surprisingly, as popular as the Cispus River is as a kayaking destination, this waterfall has escaped significant documentation since the 1940s.
- Gail Falls is the Historical name of this waterfall.
- Known Alternate Names: Eric's Falls, Cispus Falls
The origin of the name of the falls is unknown, as was its date of discovery. The only visual record of documentation we have come across thus far is a series of photos taken by stream surveyors in the 1940s. It is possible the falls weren't discovered until the mid-20th century. A plaque has been placed at the falls calling it Eric's Falls after a boy who is presumed to have perished here.
Gail Falls is located near the Adams Fork area in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. From Randle, follow SR 131 south towards Mount St. Helens, then stay left on FR 23 towards Trout Lake where the road splits. Just under 20 miles from Randle, head left on FR 21 (signed for Walupt Lake) where FR 23 splits to the right. Follow FR 21 for approximately 5 3/4 miles, watching carefully on the right side of the road for a fairly obvious trail marked by two crosses nailed to tree trunks. The short trail drops steeply to the river and the falls (the trail may be difficult to follow due to fallen trees).
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