LOWER CASCADE FALLS |
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RATING -
30.0
VR - 4 (M/Sm) HR - 5.5 SR - 8/20 TYPE OF APPROACH - Bushwhack DIFFICULTY - Fairly Difficult LOCATION - Olga Area, Orcas Island TYPE - Tiered HEIGHT - 125' WIDTH - 15' |
 Most
visitors to Orcas Island are familiar with the 5 small waterfalls along Cascade Creek in
Moran State Park. What most people don't know is that a similar series of falls
occurs further downstream near the town of Olga. This section of the creek features
4 small falls, each with a unique character. While exploring the area, I found a
very nice trail above the gorge that provides good views of two of the four falls, but I
have no idea where the trail begins or ends (I'll have to find out next time). The
falls works like this: The first tier is a series of cascades that are around 30'
tall. The next falls drops about 15' over a 15' wide ledge, turns 90 degrees to its
right, and drops another 15' in a constricted chute. The third falls is a slide of
around 40' tall that drops right next to the vertical face of the gorge. Finally,
the fourth drop is a double tiered punchbowl that then splits in two and drops one more
time. |
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DIRECTIONS - Take the ferry to Orcas Island. Upon disembarking, turn left and drive along the road for around 25 minutes until you enter Moran State Park. After passing Cascade Lake, take the right fork in the road towards the town of Olga. A mile or so after leaving the state park, you will see a big water tower on the right side of the road. Shortly after, the road will cross over Cascade Creek. The falls are off to the lefthand side of the road. Park at a nearby bike turnout and get down to the creek however you can. NEARBY WATERFALLS - Cascade Falls, Cavern Falls, Lower Cascade Falls, Hidden Falls, Rustic Falls |
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