GRANITE GORGE FALLS |
|
|
RATING - 34.0
VR - 4 (M/Sm) HR - 6.5 SR - 10/20 TYPE OF APPROACH - Bushwhack DIFFICULTY - Medium LOCATION - Newhalem Area TYPE - Tiered HEIGHT - 200' WIDTH - 10' |
 Thornton Creek runs over
a series of small drops just before it runs under Highway 20. The falls are sort of
divided into three main sections, each with several drops. The topmost section
consists of three drops, each in the 25-30' range. The middle section can be seen by
climbing upstream a little from the bridge and includes a 20' plunge followed by several
smaller, sliding drops. The bottom section has 4 small drops and ends in an amazing
blue-green pool. The final drop is probably the most photogenic of the bunch
(right). |
| DIRECTIONS - Drive
east along Highway 20 and turn left onto Thornton Creek Road about 3 miles before reaching
Newhalem. Drive up the road for about 3/4 of a mile to the bridge over Thornton
Creek. The middle section of the falls can be seen by finding a short, little
boot path along the rocks for about 50' to a clear view. The lower section of the
falls can be seen by heading down hill along the west side of the creek. The
hillside is fairly steep but not too difficult to get down. To view the upper
sections continue along the road until the second switchback right by the creek.
Views can be had through the trees and with some (very careful) climbing, clearer views
can be achieved. Be careful. NEARBY WATERFALLS - Big Devil Falls, Cross Valley Falls, Ladder Creek Falls, Newhalem Falls, Swayel Falls, Upper Swayel Falls |
|
|
ADDITIONAL PICTURES (CLICK TO ENLARGE) AND VIDEO
  |
|
HOME WHATCOM COUNTY LINKS BEST IN THE NW WATERFALLS FOR KIDS FLICKR FACEBOOK STORE |
|
