Boulder River

Hike of the Week:

April 28, 2008

The falls are a short walk in on the Boulder River hike and a great destination for families. Photo by 'Snoring Saints.'

Location: Off Hwy 530 near Arlington
Distance: 9 miles roundtrip (or less)
Elevation: 800 ft gain to 1550 ft
Maps: Green Trails 77 Oso, 109 Granite Falls

Why Go?

Towering lowland old growth forest, impressive waterfalls, and a roaring stream make Boulder River a great destination any time of the year. This is one of the best times to visit, when spring run-off makes the waterfalls particularly powerful, but the snow has pretty much melted out along first part of the trail.

Experienced hikers will find this trail a good warm up for the season. Beginning hikers and families will be rewarded by a spectacular waterfall early in the journey. The elevation gain is gentle and about a mile in you will reach the first waterfall. By pressing on another half mile or so, you will encounter another cascading beauty. After that, the trail goes up and down - sometimes quite muddy along the river, ending at streamside. Most folks stop at the falls.

Right now, you're likely to still encounter snow after the two falls, along with seasonal blowdowns. The snow should melt out as the weather warms up, and WTA will be hosting three days of trail maintenance work parties May 13-15. If you're interested in clearing the blowdowns and improving the muddy trail, click here for the schedule.

Note: WTA Trip Reports detail a successful rescue in April 2008 on the Boulder River trail. It's important to remember that even trails considered "easy" can be hazardous, especially in spring conditions. Always be aware out there!

For More Information

Boulder River is one of the region's most popular hikes, so there is no lack of information about it. Guidebook: Day Hiking North Cascades by Craig Romano (Mountaineers Books). Trail conditions on the Darrington Ranger District. Check WTA Trip Reports. 

Directions

From I-5 drive Highway 530 east to mile point 41. Turn right on the French Creek Road FS #2010. Follow this to the road's end at 3.8 miles and an ample parking area. Northwest Forest Pass required.