The Trails We Walk

Coon Den Falls Trail

Overview

Coon Den Falls is a short hike with a long-feeling climb. It begins with a steady approach to a stream crossing, then rises sharply toward the falls with little level ground and few places to rest.

This is not a trail to underestimate because of its distance. It asks for careful footing, patience, and enough margin to move at the pace the terrain requires. The reward is not only the falls, but the quieter attention that the climb makes possible.

Trail at a Glance

Location
The trailhead is near Dennis Cove Campground.
Route
The route is easy to follow with good signage. The main stream crossing is easy to cross without needing to get in the water.
Terrain
The terrain is uneven with loose rock along the trail. There is exposed rock slabs in some points along the trail that can be slick.
Water
The trail follows the stream toward the falls. One stream crossing and seasonal springs cross the trail.
Seasonal considerations
In cold or freezing temperatures the water crossing the trail can freeze. Sheets of ice are common in colder weather.

Route details

  • Coon Den Falls Trail

    A steep climb to a secluded waterfall.

    Distance
    1.3 miles round trip
    Estimated time
    Approximately 2 hours
    Trail type
    Out and back
    Difficulty
    1.25 out of 5 (Moderate with difficult sections)
    Elevation
    Begins as a gentle grade before turning steeply upward toward the falls. · about 400 ft of climbing
TrailheadParking

Key Points

  • The Opening Climb The trail begins with a steady uphill grade that asks for a little effort before giving any relief. It is the gentlest portion of the route, but it is not entirely flat.
  • The Stream Crossing A brief descent leads to the stream crossing. Expect to move from stone to stone rather than across a bridge. Take time to choose your footing, especially after rain or in colder conditions.

    Beyond the crossing, look up: the rest of the trail is climbing.
  • The Sustained Ascent From the stream, the trail rises continuously toward the falls. There are no long flat sections to reset your legs, and the slope grows steeper as you climb. A small spring crosses bare rock in places, making already-steep footing slick.

    The stream beside the trail offers a gentle counterpoint to the work. It is a reminder to slow down, focus on the next step, and take a break before you need one.
  • Coon Den Falls Near the falls, the air cools and a fine mist begins to settle in. The water comes down from high above—not loud enough to overwhelm conversation, but enough to soften the sounds of the world beyond the gorge.

    Seating is limited, and the available places may be wet from spray. Stay close together, rest, and take in the falls before beginning the descent.
  • The Return The descent demands attention of its own. The steepness that made the ascent difficult becomes a test of balance and focus on the way down. Return carefully to the stone crossing; after that, the final stretch eases and gives the body room to relax on the way back to the trailhead.

Walking the Trail

Coon Den Falls begins by asking for a little effort. The trail climbs steadily toward the water crossing, then offers a brief respite as it drops down to the stream.

Crossing the water from stone to stone is a small threshold. On the other side, the trail makes its intention clear: the remainder of the walk is uphill. There is little level ground and no gentle slope to settle into. The ascent becomes steeper, and a spring running over bare rock can make the route slick when it is already demanding attention.

The stream stays near the trail, offering something gentle beside the hard work. It asks no less of a hiker, but it does invite a different pace—one careful step, then another.

A short reprieve near the upper trail gives way to the final push toward the falls. There, mist hangs in the air and the temperature drops. On hot days, it is a welcome comfort. On cold days, it can be chilling.

The falls are a place to sit close, rest, and let conversation return. Then comes the way back: a descent that requires as much focus as the climb. When the stream crossing is behind you, the trail finally eases, leaving room to enjoy the last stretch toward home.

Before You Go

Coon Den Falls is best suited for hikers with some hiking experience and a moderate level of fitness. The trail is short, but the sustained climb makes it more physically demanding than the distance suggests.

Wear footwear with good traction and be prepared for uneven, potentially slick terrain. Bring enough water for the hike and dress appropriately for mountain weather.

Pay particular attention to the stream crossing and current trail conditions. Recent rain can affect footing and water levels, while freezing temperatures can make the route hazardous.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Dennis Cove area, make sure you know the exact parking and starting location for this route before setting out.

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Upcoming hikes on this trail

Related Resources

Connect with Eremos | Experience the Wilderness | Guided Christian Hikes

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Each experience offers a different rhythm of time, distance, and attention… but all of them begin in the same place: slowing down and becoming present.

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