First, I want to wish everyone a happy Veteran's Day and thank all of those who have served and are currently serving in the military (Especially my dad! Thanks Dad.)
Our plan today was to hike the Boulder River trail all the way to the top this time. We had done this hike before over the summer but only hiked to the twin falls. I have wanted to go back to hike the entire trail ever since.
It was dry and about 50 degrees at our house when we left. As we got closer and closer to our destination the rain came down harder and harder and the thermometer in the car registered colder and colder. We arrived at the trailhead amidst 40 degree weather and pouring rain. I guess we should have gotten a clue when we saw a couple of cars driving away from the trailhead. It was only 11:00am and there is no way they could have hiked the trail and back by then unless they started before dawn.
We decided to give it a try so I put plastic bags over the kids (yes they had holes for their heads and arms) to keep them dry and we began our journey. This is what we saw.
The entire trail was covered in at least 2-3 inches of water and mud. We tried to avoid it by skirting the sides, but it was no use. At 1/2 mile in, our feet were soaked and our hands were frozen. I was disappointed but we had to turn around.
On the way back my youngest wanted me to take a picture of him pretending to fall in the water. My hands and phone were so wet my touch screen wouldn't work. But, I finally dried off enough to get this pic.
Well, we tried. We were happy to get back in the car and crank up the heat.
So, we started out today planning to go to Denny Creek Water Slide off of I-90 Snoqualmie Pass. Unfortunately, the weather said rain/thundershowers. Luckily I checked online to see what the trail conditions were and found out the bridge was out at Denny Creek which meant we would have to wade through water. No thanks. Change of plans. This is a great example of why we check the trail conditions before we head out on a hike.
I decided to go to Boulder River waterfall off of the Mountain Loop Highway. I found out the trail is in good condition March through November and it was supposed to be a bit warmer up north. Our hiking partners for the day were very flexible so off we went through the pouring rain. When you live in Washington, rain can't slow you down. If you let a little rain stop you, you may never get out of the house.
There are a couple of options on this hike. You can stop at about 1 1/4 miles (3 miles round trip) at the twin falls or you can go all the way to the top (about 7 miles round trip). We decided on the shorter option due to the weather, but will return to do the entire length before summer's end.
This hike was on the easier side, smooth and level enough for small children. Even though we were prepared for the rain (wearing garbage bags to stay dry) we stayed pretty dry the entire time. The forest envelopes you in a waterproof canopy. Even most of the trail stayed dry. We were so warm, the garbage bags came off halfway up.
The trees and foliage were beautiful and peaceful. You will see this downed tree shortly after beginning your hike. Friends make hiking that much more fun.
We continued to follow the sound of rushing water and came upon the majestic twin falls. It was hard to capture the entire image.
We did continue for a little while longer just for fun and we saw a cave across the way. My son Riley is convinced that Sasquatch lives there.
We then went across a narrow bridge and decided to turn back around and head down.
This hike left me wanting more for sure. I really like the hikes that allow you to choose your distance. You still can hit a great viewpoint without going all the way to the top. A great hike for all.
You do not need a forest pass to park at this trailhead and there is one port-a-potty on the dirt road leading to the trailhead. It smelled fresh but was out of toilet paper, so make sure to bring some in your Hiking Essentials Kit.
It really is the last chance.
To get here take exit 208 off of I-5 and drive 4 miles east on State Route 530 to Arlington. Then continue east on SR 530 for 20 more miles. At milepost 41, near a subdivision, turn right onto Forest Road 2010 (French Creek Road) and continue for 3.7 miles to the trailhead.
