1,212

Boulder River — Feb. 10, 2024

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway
3 photos
Beware of: road conditions

1 person found this report helpful

 

The road leading to the trail from the main road is a bit bumpy with potholes, but it's manageable. Once on the trail, the conditions are fantastic, and it's well-maintained throughout. The hike offers breathtaking views of the waterfalls, and as you continue, the path takes you through lovely forest scenery, culminating at the river.

Boulder River — Feb. 10, 2024

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway
1 photo
Beware of: road, trail conditions

5 people found this report helpful

 

There are potholes on the road, but I have experienced much worse.  Most vehicles should be able to handle them.

There are a few blowdowns on the trail, most people should be able to navigate them.

About 4 miles in it gets to be a bit more challenging, but still most people should manage.  There is a short section where you have the option of walking on a narrow log bridge or in the mud. If you walk in the mud, choose the river side of the log bridge. 

There are two spurs that lead towards the river for better views of the waterfalls. Poles were useful here.

Waterproof boots are recommended because of the mud and several streamlets along the trail. 

With the spurs added to the trail it was more like 9.3 miles and 2,480 ft of elevation gain. 

Boulder River — Feb. 3, 2024

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway
Beware of: road conditions
  • Hiked with a dog

3 people found this report helpful

 

Road to get to trailhead had a large number of severe potholes and really needs work. If you have a city car like me (Honda Fit) it’s doable but you’ll need to drive at a snail’s pace and be cautious.

Arrived at 9 and trail was not crowded and I could give my dog freedom to roam. The falls are beautiful, not to mention the mossy trees.

I’m a decent hiker but the wet bark at log crossings (there are several) was very slippery and I fell a few times. I normally don’t like carrying poles but with the slippery bark and the large number of stream crossings, they would be good here.

Overall a beautiful hike and I will definitely be back!

Boulder River — Jan. 30, 2024

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway
2 photos
Beware of: road, trail conditions

5 people found this report helpful

 

No snow or ice today, but plenty of little streams and rivulets along the trail, so prepare accordingly.  Also a fair amount of downed trees along the way, many of which have been trimmed by intrepid volunteers to make them more easily climbed over.

Took us just short of 6 hours, there and back, including time at the terminus.  Clocked in at 807 ft. gain and 8.6 miles, round-trip 

Boulder River — Jan. 15, 2024

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway
1 photo
Beware of: road, snow & trail conditions

5 people found this report helpful

 

Beautiful hike, but had to turn back before the first waterfall because the trail was covered in sheets of ice. I would advise extreme caution, or to wait till the chill has passed before attempting.