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Roaring Creek drains from a subterranean outlet of Lost Lake and empties into the western shore of Lake Keechelus near its dam. Shortly before entering the lake the creek hurtles over an airy 50-foot waterfall into a verdant grotto, at times plunging in a single narrow column but with higher discharge will split into two segments and form a striking fan-shaped pairing. The falls lie within a private development but are accessible by the public from downstream via the John Wayne Trail and a short bushwhack. When accessing the base of the falls, be aware of the property markers and flags which the adjacent landowners have placed along the shore of the creek. Please be courteous and do not cross the property lines.
Previously we had posted directions to access this waterfall via the roads in the housing development above the falls, but its become increasingly clear that the property owners in the area do not care for visitors, so please do not use this method of access any longer. Greg Plumb's "Waterfall Lovers Guide" books also list this as the access point, please disregard his directions and instead utilize the John Wayne Trail - the former Milwaukee Railroad right of way - for accessing this waterfall.
- Roaring Creek Falls is the Historical name of this waterfall.
Roaring Creek Falls appears to be the legitimate (if generic) historical name for this waterfall. We have seen postcards dating from the early 1900's labeling the falls as such, likely stemming from the construction and operation of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Louis and St. Paul Railroad across Snoqualmie Pass. At one time the falls were more than likely visible from the railroad tracks but that is no longer the case.
Drive east of Snoqualmie Pass for about 11 miles to the signed exit for Stampede Pass. Exit and turn right (west) and follow the paved road until it ends in about a mile. Turn right following signs for Lost Lake and drive another mile and a half and park where the John Wayne Trail crosses the road (if you cross Meadow Creek, you've gone 500 feet too far). From this point either walk or bike west (towards Snoqualmie Pass) on the John Wayne Trail for a mile and a half to the Roaring Creek bridge. The falls are located about 400 feet upstream and are audible but not visible from the bridge. Bushwhack along the south bank of the creek to reach the base of the falls. Again, please be aware of the property boundary markers which have been placed at the base of the falls. The land between the John Wayne Trail and the falls appears to belong to the State, but the falls itself is on private land, so ensure you remain on the public right of way.
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