- The larger and upper of the two major waterfalls on Big Tree Creek is a scenic fine-lined plunge which leaps a clean 66 feet over an undercut basalt ledge, dropping into a surprisingly significant canyon set amid otherwise unassuming timber land. During periods of heavier flow, the falls spread out across a significantly broader expanse of the cliff, potentially tripling in breadth, but still retaining a well defined classic “plunge” form. Contrary to its name, there does not seem to be a “twin” to the plunge currently - the one time second segment has long since been plugged up. Perhaps a flood will unplug it some day.
northwest waterfall survey of
- Washington Pass (wa100.dnr.wa.gov)
Washington Pass—accessible only about half of the year—is a stretch of the North Cascades Highway boasting steep mountains, year-round glaciers, and a gorgeous alpine forest. This section of State Route 20 climbs to elevations over 5,500 feet and is covered by up to 40 feet of snow between late Fall and early Summer. A short side road near a hairpin turn leads to the Washington Pass Overlook, where visitors can enjoy a short paved trail leading to a spectacular viewpoint. Looming above the overlook are the slopes of a breathtaking array of alpine peaks and pinnacles, including the rounded dome of Liberty Bell and the twin peaks of the North and South Early Winter Spires. This landscape is immensely popular with rock climbers, who scramble up the sheer slopes to reach high vantage points with views of Kangaroo Ridge to the east and the glacier-carved Methow River valley to the north.