Boulder River waterfall by Bama Rose.

A good hike any time of year, the trail is perfect for beating summer heat, enjoying winter rain, savoring autumn color, or being wooed by waterfalls that are swollen with spring rain. One thing about this trail remains constant: the trees. Whatever the season, you'll travel through a forest that has defied time. Boulder River's moss-draped giants represent one of the last remaining large, low-country old-growth forests in the Cascades. Protected within the nearly 49,000-acre Boulder River Wilderness, these ancient trees are as impressive as the wild river they embrace.

Start in an old cut on a logging railroad grade. Don't despair, though, virgin forest appears soon enough. Crashing Boulder Falls can be heard through the dense forest and becomes fully visible just ahead. At about 1 mile pass the wilderness boundary, and soon afterward encounter a spectacular yet unnamed twin waterfall tumbling down the canyon walls into the river. This is a good turnaround spot for young children and hikers who just want a quick wilderness dose.

For those intent on carrying on, the trail continues up the moisture-laden emerald valley. While the river's incessant gurgling and belching is continuously heard along the way, the raucous waterway is often hidden from sight. Farther upstream the trail pulls a little ways from the river, climbing a couple hundred feet above it. At 4 miles the trail heads back down to the wild waterway, terminating at a damp riverside flat (elev. 1450 ft). Grab the granola and let the river serenade you with its timeless ballads.