2 minute read

Seattle North Country Hiking Guide - 2nd Edition 2022

North Fork Sauk Falls

Thundering cataract is a spectacular sight in the spring.

ROUNDTRIP: 0.5 miles ELEVATION GAIN: 100 feet SEASON: April - November START: Forest Road 49 Note: The hiker bridge over the S. Fork Stillaguamish river was removed to avoid it collapsing when the river channel moved. Replacement is planned for late 2022.

This is a short and easy hike to one of the prettiest waterfalls in the North Cascades. The North Fork of the Sauk River thunders through a rocky chasm plummeting over 50 feet into a mossy-rimmed punchbowl. During autumn rains and spring thaws witness a hydrological force that is simply staggering.

Starting in a grove of alder and second growth conifers, follow the good trail to the bellowing river. Losing about 100 feet of elevation the trail winds its way to the misty gorge housing the roaring falls. Handrails offer assistance

for the not-so-sure-footed and act as barriers of prudence for keeping the hyper-curious from getting too close to this stunning but potentially dangerous natural feature. Admire the falls safely from the secure viewing areas and try to stay dry while being a gawker in the mist! Stare into the maddening waters and see if you can spot daring dippers, aquatic robin-like birds intent on finding aquatic morsels and unfazed by the fury of water surrounding them.

Since this trail is pretty short, you may want to combine it with a trip to the nearby Harold Engles Memorial Grove of ancient giant cedars. This wonderful 0.5 mile kid friendly hike is located about 2.5 miles beyond the falls on Forest Road 49.

This article is from: