Marvel at Cedar Creek careening down a series of rapids and crashing over a twin-tiered cataract into a deep narrow chasm. On a lightly traveled trail off of the busy North Cascades Highway, Cedar Falls makes an easy early or late-season jaunt. Cruise this way just after snowmelt and witness a deafening display of hydrologic force. Pretty wildflowers lining the trail help soften the trauma.

From the rather unattractive trailhead, head off into the woods on a wide and well-groomed path high above roaring Cedar Creek. Immediately come upon an unmarked junction with a primitive trail that goes right for 3.5 miles to Mudhole Lake, high on a shoulder of Silver Star Mountain. Climbing 3000 feet in 2 miles, it's a steep route. Continue straight on Trail No. 476, the more trodden and gentle path.

Soon pass through a gap in the forest that gives a glimpse north to Goat Peak and the cliffs below known as the Goat Wall. At 0.6 mile sneak a peek through the forest to across the creek valley and an impressive cascade tumbling down from Sandy Butte. At 1 mile the source of the continuous accompanying roar, Cedar Creek, can finally be seen as the trail gets closer to the crashing waterway.

Continue upvalley through groves of pine and fir. In spring, bouquets of yellow arnica and red paintbrush brighten the forest floor. As you head farther upvalley the forest canopy thins to reveal the steep slopes surrounding you.

At 1.75 miles, the sound of crashing water now intensely audible, you come to Cedar Falls. Thundering over granite ledges, the two-tiered cataract is an impressive sight. Above the falls a series of rapids prime the river for the plunge, while below a steep and narrow chasm swallows it after its turbulent display. Walk around to a couple of overhanging ledges for the best viewing, but be extremely careful on these exposed belvederes-this is no place for loose dogs or children.