Boulder River Trail

The Boulder River Trail is the most popular entry into the nearly 50,000-acre Boulder River Wilderness, and for good reason. This well-maintained trail is a great choice for hikers of all ability and age levels. The grade is slight throughout, and the scenery in this forest of old-growth Dogulas fir, hemlock, and western redcedar is lush and rewarding. You'll have the chance to see several waterfalls, and the first is just over a mile into the hike.

You'll begin the hike on what was once a logging route, and the path is wide and gently graded. The trail climbs a bit before side routes are visible to camping spots just outside of the wilderness boundary. Continue on to enter the Boulder River Wilderness and listen for the sound of the first falls. Feature Show Falls is a beautiful set of twin streams that cascade 259 feet down into the Boulder River. Not to be confused with Boulder Falls a few miles downstream, Feature Show Falls is much more picturesque and popular, and for many it is the destination for the day.

It won't be the last waterfall, however, so press on for more from this gorgeous, protected forest. The trail climbs slightly and dives into the understory of maiden hair and deer fern, devil's club, bunchberry, and more. Sections of the trail are rooted and rocky, but the going is generally smooth. You'll see the second waterfall, unnamed, streaming down in a series of drops about a half-mile beyond Feature Show Falls. While no feature, this falls is certainly worth the extra effort if you are not out for the longer trip.

If you do proceed from this second waterfall, note that the trail becomes a little more rough. Sections are muddy, rooted, and there are some stream crossings. The trail is still a great trek if you are heading toward the clearing at the end. This is a great spot to camp if you are out for a brief overnight trip. Please remember that any cat holes should be dug 200 feet from the trail and any water, and practice Leave No Trace principles for the next visitor.