Racehorse Falls is located along Racehorse Creek and features multiple tiers of cascading water, creating a mesmerizing sight as the water tumbles over rugged rocks into a pristine pool below. The area is surrounded by lush forests, moss-covered boulders, and serene natural beauty that invites visitors to explore, relax, and take in the tranquil ambiance.
Hidden within the lush forests of the North Cascades foothills, Racehorse Falls is a year-round location with spring and fall being the best time to visit, lower water levels in the summer allow more creek bed exploring while snow and ice transform the falls into a magical, frozen landscape in the winter.
The Hike:
Racehorse Falls Trail is a 1.1 km (0.7 mile) in-and-out trail that takes about 10 minutes each way. It’s considered a moderately challenging hike but it also provides some great forest views with all the trees and rocks covered in moss. The hike will guide you from the top of the falls and down to the base where you will find some nice creek areas to relax.
Stats:
The falls drop a total of 139 ft (42.3 meters) over four distinct steps, the first two drops plunge into a deep pool of water, the third accelerates down a ramp-like cascading fall and the final drop plumits into a pitched bedrock. The average width of the falls is 20 ft (6 meters) and the average water volume is about 100 cubic feet per second. The total run of the falls is about 300 ft (91.4 meters)
Getting There:
Racehorse Falls is situated approximately 30 miles northeast of Bellingham, Washington. Take Mount Baker Highway east to Mosquito Lake Road, turn right onto Mosquito Lake Road and drive for about 3 miles until you reach the small pull-off area near a trailhead sign.