
About This Waterfall
The presence of this waterfall is fairly obvious, considering it's proximity to a major highway, so I'm quite surprised it isn't better known. The small, unnamed branch of the South Fork of Clear Creek crosses under the highway by means of a small cascade, before plunging 104 feet into an otherworldly canyon that conjures visions of hellish dimensions. Due to lack of volume, the falls themselves aren't terribly impressive, but being located just a stone's throw away from the highway, the view of the canyon is worth a stop all by itself. Casual passersby will are encouraged to pass this one up due to the short scramble necessary and head to nearby Clear Creek Falls instead, but waterfall collectors will undoubtedly be drawn to this waterfall. During higher flows, the falls may take on a segmented or curtain form (depending on how debris has gathered at its brink).I had previously called this waterfall South Clear Creek Falls, rather than Upper South Fork Falls as suggested in "A Waterfall Lover's Guide to the Pacific Northwest" (successive updates by the author of which have dubbed this fall "Clear Creek Fork Falls"). However, with the "discovery" of at least one significant fall along the true South Fork of Clear Creek, about ½ a mile south of here, neither name works very well for this location. As mentioned above, I've called this waterfall such because the barren canyon looks like some sort of portal to a landscape straight out of the game Doom.
Waterfall Details
Waterfall Form
Plunge
Best Time to Visit
April to June
Total Height
104ft
Number of Drops
1
Run
10ft
Avg Width
10ft
Pitch
90°
Magnitude
30.81
High Flow
20cfs
Getting There
GPS Coordinates
46.648320, -121.375520
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Quick Facts
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Tips
Best photos during golden hour or after rain.
A hike may be required to reach the falls.
Safety Info
Stay on marked trails. Rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery.
Never swim at the top of a waterfall. Strong currents can be deceptive.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.