Inspired by a trip report from Maddy, I decided to take a photo hike to capture the remaining fall color before the arrival of the upcoming rains and snow. I packed my panoramic photo gear and hit the trail at 10:00 am. Yet, it was still quite cold.
I had hiked to both the Melakwa Lakes years ago, before the old trailhead was closed off, so the revised route was new to me. I measured the distance from the parking lot stairs to the old trailhead on my GAIA GPS phone app at 0.33 miles. The lower trail was densely forested, allowing little sunlight and warmth to reach it. The sound of the freeway was ever-present until I reached the waterslide, about a mile and a half in. I pulled out my tripod to photograph the scene. I was temporarily alone, and then two hikers with a dog greeted me. After petting the friendly dog, I headed on. Though it was a beautiful day, I would see few others on the trail.
Once past the waterslide, the trail broke out and traversed several boulder fields punctuated by episodic stands of trees. I noted the quality of recent trail work and gave a silent thanks to those who had labored to improve the route. The sun shone brightly, bringing a much-welcomed warmth. The surrounding vistas were resplendent with fall color, and I was grateful to be there. I admired Keekwulee Falls from the trail and kept hiking until I spied an unmarked boot path that made a steep descent over soil, roots, and rock down to a granite shelf by the upper falls. Using poles and vegetation, I slowly made my way down. Fortunately, it was only a short distance. I then scouted the rocky site, looking for the right vantage point, and set up my tripod while mindful not to fall over the cliff.
After taking my photo, I headed further up the trail and stopped in awe, transfixed by the beauty of the wilderness vista. I took another panoramic photo and then headed down, stopping once again to take a trailside panorama with a view of Keekwulee Falls. Two nearby hikers sat admiring the scene. When I asked, they quickly agreed to be in the image. I thanked them, and having fulfilled my photo quest, headed back, savoring the rocky trail.
After the waterslide and back in the forest, I noticed that I could see my breath. Even though it was now early in the afternoon, that section had not warmed up very much. Overall verdict? A lovely fall hike that is easy and accessible from Seattle and the Eastside. Highly recommended.
I took four spherical panoramas and was pleased to capture those moments in time. The links to two of them are listed below. For the most immersive viewing experience, use a computer and click on the ‘fullscreen’ icon in the upper right of the image. Then scroll.
Comments
Ups n Downs on Denny Creek
Great photos!
Posted by:
Ups n Downs on Oct 16, 2025 05:07 PM
Billy Wan on Denny Creek
Thank you. I appreciate hearing that.
Posted by:
Billy Wan on Oct 17, 2025 01:50 PM