North Fork Sauk Falls–Thundering Cataract is a spectacular spectacle in the spring
Location: Mountain Loop Highway near Darrington
Land Agency: MountBaker-SnoqualmieNational Forest
Roundtrip: .5 mile
Elevation gain: 100 feet
Contact: Darrington Ranger District: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest (360) 436-1155
Green Trails Maps: Sloan Peak, WA-No. 111
Access: From Arlington, follow SR 530 east for 28 miles to Darrington. Turn right onto the Mountain Loop Highway and proceed for 16 miles coming to a junction with FR 49. Turn left onto FR 49 reaching the trailhead just after one mile.
This is a short and easy hike to one of the prettiest waterfalls in the 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 towards 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. In late summer the falls basin offers a nice reprieve from the heat. In spring be sure to don a waterproof parka before descending to overlooks that lie well within the spray zone.
While the North Fork Sauk Falls Trail may not offer much in the way of extensive hiking, it makes for a nice add-on while visiting other hikes and attractions nearby. The Engles Cedar Grove is a wonderful kid-friendly spring hike located just a short distance beyond the falls on FR 49. Note that FR 49 is currently closed three miles beyond the falls due to winter damage but still is open to foot and bike traffic.
For information on lodging and other attractions near North Fork Sauk Falls visit www.snohomish.org
