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Upper Copper Falls is the first of the three smaller waterfalls along Copper Creek as it crashes downhill from Copper and Malachite Lakes towards the Foss River. Of the three falls in this immediate area, this is likely the one seen by most people, as it is visible through the trees from the West Fork Foss Lakes trail. I doubt, however, that many people get close enough to the falls to properly photograph it. Below the initial 40 foot falls, there is a small 4 foot drop which, when viewed at the same time with the main part of the falls, makes quite a pretty scene. I can't say for sure, but I imagine that at least one of the segments of the main fall dries out during the late summer.
- Upper Copper Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
Driving east along US 2 from the Skykomish Ranger Station, proceed only about 1/2 mile to the signed Foss River Road NE. Turn and drive roughly 6.5 miles, following the signs for West Fork Foss trail # 1062. After about 4.5 miles, Road 68 which you came in on goes straight across the river, be sure to turn left at the junction (don't cross the river) and proceed to the road's end and trailhead. The trail starts out over an old streambed and crosses the Foss after about .5 mile. The bridge is made out of a log jam, and the route across isn't the most obvious. Shoestring Falls is visible across the valley. In 1.5 miles from the trailhead, come to Trout Lake. Follow the signs for Copper Lake. After about 2 miles, meet up with Copper Creek. From here, you can either follow beaten paths upstream for about 200 feet to the base of the falls, or stay on the main trail for one switchback, and drop down to the falls from above.
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