Foster Falls

The tallest falls in the Park, Foster Falls can be viewed from a handicapped-accessible observation platform, accessed via a boardwalk and paved trail, one quarter-mile from the Foster Falls parking area. 

To view the falls from the bottom of the gorge, you’ll have two options, both of which begin by taking the Foster Climbers’ Access trail, which begins to the right of the observation platform (as you view it, looking toward the falls) and then steeply descends the bluff, first via a handsome set of stairs, and then a steep descent trail, with a cable bridge crossing at the bottom of the gorge, just below the pool at the base of the falls. 

A short spur trail to the right takes you to the plunge pool at the base of the falls, an area popular with swimmers in the summertime. 

The Climbers’ Access Trail then continues to the left, following the base of the bluff line, passing many excellent climbing routes; please give the ground-based climbing crews room to work; they have the right-of-way. 

After exploring the Climbers’ Access Trail, your first option is to return the way you came in, re-crossing the creek below the falls and ascending the bluff to the boardwalk, which returns you to the trailhead. 

The other option is to continue on the Climbers’ Access Trail, ascending to the bluff via either “Exit One” or “Exit Two” (they’re actually marked that way!). 

When you get to the top, turn RIGHT to return via the southernmost stretch of the famed Fiery Gizzard Trail, which runs along the bluff-line, circling behind Foster Falls on your way back to the trailhead. 

This portion of the trail provides a majestic view of the Foster Falls plunge pool, from 120 feet above the water. 

A short distance beyond is the entrance to the Father Adamz Boy Scout Campsite, on the left. Continue straight and cross the steel bridge across Little Gizzard Creek. 

 Follow the stone wall directly above Foster Falls, after which the trail enters the power-line right-of-way. Just up the hill you’ll reconnect with the boardwalk; turn left here. The trail ends at the Fiery Gizzard South trailhead, where you began.