PORT ANGELES, WA – The Sol Duc Falls area in Olympic National Park has been temporarily closed as recovery efforts are underway for the body of an 18-year-old man who fell over the 50-foot waterfall on June 8, 2025.

According to the National Park Service, a park ranger located a fully submerged body late on June 9, pinned between the first and second sections of the waterfall. It is believed to be the same individual reported to have slipped while walking across rocks at the top of the falls. Witnesses reported that the man briefly resurfaced at the bottom before disappearing into the water.

The park’s swiftwater and rope rescue teams initiated search efforts immediately, including ground searches along the riverbanks and the use of thermal imaging. The operation has involved multiple agencies, including Forks Ambulance, Forks Swiftwater, Olympic Ambulance, Clallam County Fire District 2, the Port Townsend and Sequim Police Departments, and the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office.

Recovery planning has been complicated by several hazards. Officials cited recent snowmelt and high temperatures, which have led to elevated river flows. The body is located in a narrow canyon beneath the main falls, where water force is intensified. Downstream hazards include another waterfall, a whirlpool, and vertical cliffs coated with moss and algae on both sides.

Rescue teams are monitoring river conditions and will proceed with the recovery operation once it is safe to do so.

The Sol Duc Falls area will remain closed to the public until further notice.