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Kulshan Creek is the first large creek which is necessary to ford, as one progresses up the Heliotrope Ridge Trail. As the trail climbs along the creek, one can't help but peer at the stream, as it cascades steeply downhill, in several places over small waterfalls. Just before the trail bends away from the creek, it throws a nice surprise out, this beautiful 150 foot cascade. This is, unfortunately, the only major waterfall along the creek that is easily accessible (and I suspect there are many more). The falls occur shortly below timberline, where the creek cascades down a stepped ravine. It appears as though the falls were altered a bit as a result of the floods of October 2003. Much of the loose rock which previously lay in between tiers of the falls has been washed downstream, and the water flows in different channels, in some places, than it did before the floods. I hadn't seen the falls in person prior to August 2004, but based on the pictures I'd seen beforehand, I'd say the falls are much more scenic now.
- Kulshan Falls is the Proposed name of this waterfall.
Located on Heliotrope Ridge on the north side of Mount Baker. Heading east from Maple Falls, along Highway 542, just 7/10 of a mile to Glacier Creek Road, and turn right. Follow Glacier Creek Road for 8 miles (stay right at all major roads after crossing Glacier Creek) to the Heliotrope Ridge trailhead, marked by restrooms, and likely several cars. Park, and follow the moderate, but well graded trail for 1.8 miles, about 4/10 of a mile past the ford of Kulshan Creek, to where the falls are visible from the trail. Best views require climbing a short distance off the trail.
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