Nestled within a surprisingly impressive canyon along Park Creek, Blueberry Falls is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by avid hikers and nature enthusiasts. Situated about a mile and a half upstream of where the creek drains into Baker Lake, this small yet scenic waterfall offers a breathtaking sight, particularly during the cooler months when striking blue pools form below its cascades.
Blueberry Falls – Quick Look
GPS Coordinates: N48 44.453 W121 41.138
Elevation: 1077 feet
Type: Tiered
Height: 50 feet
Width: 15 feet
Approach: Bushwhack
Difficulty: Very Difficult
Nearby Waterfalls: Boulder Camp Falls, Lava Divide Falls, Lower Morowitz Falls, Rainbow Falls, Upper Morowitz Falls
Other Waterfalls In This Series
Little Mashell Falls • Wells Creek Falls • Devil’s Peak Falls • Edith Gorge Falls • Clayton Beach Falls • Racehorse Falls • Cougar Creek Falls • Coal Creek Falls • Lake Creek Falls • Colonial Creek Falls • Cavern Falls • Skyline Falls
The Waterfall Itself
Blueberry Falls drops a total of 53 feet in two distinct steps, measuring 22 and 31 feet respectively. The lower tier is particularly scenic as it plunges over a rounded lip into a pothole-scoured section of the canyon. The waterfall is fed by one of the largest glaciers on Mount Baker, causing it to swell to potentially impressive levels during the spring and summer months when temperatures climb.
How To Get There
To reach Blueberry Falls, drive east on HWY 20 and turn left onto Baker Lake Road. After about 14 miles, you’ll cross over Boulder Creek. Turn left onto FR 1130 just after the creek, and take the right at the first fork. In around 3 miles, the road goes over Park Creek. The falls are located roughly 1/4 of a mile downstream from the bridge. It’s recommended to park at the corner about 800 feet before the bridge and head into the woods from there.
Accessing the waterfall requires a moderately steep scramble to the canyon rim, followed by a sketchy descent into the canyon itself, which should not be attempted without the use of a rope. Due to this limitation, the falls are not very visible from the surrounding thick forest.
Other Hikes and Attractions Nearby
While exploring the area around Blueberry Falls, consider visiting other nearby waterfalls, such as Boulder Camp Falls, Lava Divide Falls, Lower Morowitz Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Upper Morowitz Falls. These additional attractions offer more opportunities to take in the stunning natural beauty of Washington’s wilderness.
Conclusion
Blueberry Falls, named after the abundant wild blueberries growing around the canyon, is a picturesque hidden gem that offers a truly rewarding experience for those willing to take on the challenge of reaching it.
Although the hike can be difficult and requires caution, the breathtaking beauty of the falls and surrounding wilderness make it well worth the effort. Embark on this adventure to discover the captivating allure of Blueberry Falls and the enchanting landscape of Washington’s Baker Lake Area.
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