Wallace Falls
| Distance: | 0 miles | |
| Time: | 0 hours | |
| Elevation Gain: | 0ft | |
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Description:
The trail begins by following a power-line swath a quarter of a mile (noticed: path is lined with blackberry bushes). From the swath there are views of Mounts Baring, Index and Persis to savor before the path enters the forest. In a short distance, you reach a signed junction. Stay to the right for the Woody Trail and left for the old railroad grade.
The two trails meet at 1.5 miles and again at 2.5 miles for potential loop hikes. The Woody Trail parallels the Wallace River as it wanders through a magnificent forest of alders and evergreens. The trail is shorter and steeper than the old railroad grade.
It climbs above the river and returns to it in about a mile, then crosses it on the North Fork bridge, elevation 650 feet. The trail continues climbing through forest to the picnic shelter at 1,200 feet and the first overlook of the falls.
The Woody Trail then continues uphill for more views, climbing to the Middle Overlook and finally the Valley Overlook, about a mile from the bridge. The trail ends at the overlook at 1,500 feet with giddy views of the falls and out to the Skykomish River, Goldbar, Startup and, on a clear day, even the Olympic Mountains.
The old railroad grade is an easier hike but not as interesting as the trail departs from the river.
Directions:
From Interstate 5 take U.S. Route 2 east to the small town of Gold Bar and turn left, following the signs for Wallace Falls State Park to the park headquarters and trailhead at 300 feet.
