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Irene Creek Falls are one of the visual highlights for kayakers on the Cascade River. Unfortunately, they aren't a highlight for many else. While pretty from the road, having to view the falls at a distance of close to ¼ mile, and largely obscured by trees and the twisting gorge, the falls are difficult to really appreciate from a distance. Irene Creek drops into the valley of the Cascade River from a very thin hanging valley. Looking at the narrow canyon from across the valley, it's evident that the falls are several hundred feet tall, but the only visible portion of the falls is the final 75-100 feet. The best views require bushwhacking down to the banks of the Cascade River from the road - something that most probably aren't willing to do. Should the falls be seen from the river, the rating would likely deserve to be raised.
- Irene Creek Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
Driving east along US 20, enter the town of Marblemount. At a bend in the highway (in the middle of town), keep straight across the visible bridge spanning the Skagit River. Proceed just under 4 1/2 miles from US 20 to Mystery Falls. Continue another 1.3 to 1.4 miles to wherever you feel the best views are had of the falls. The top portion of the falls can be seen well for a longer stretch or road, but trees in front of the falls block the base from most vantages. If you can get to the river, then the photos will obviously be better.
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