At Wallace Falls State Park in Gold Bar, lush forest, two lakes and the three-tiered Wallace Falls are the defining features of the landscape.

Forest, Lakes and Trails at Wallace Falls State Park

Wallace Falls State Park in Gold Bar encompasses lush forest, two lakes and the three-tiered Wallace Falls. The park has 12 miles of maintained trails along the Wallace River to Wallace Falls, as well as Wallace Lake and Jay Lake. The river, falls and two lakes are specific landmarks in the park landscape.

One specific hike leads to the upper viewpoint at Wallace Falls. The route description gives its length as 2.8 miles and describes the hike as suitable for most skill levels. The 12 miles refer to the park’s maintained trails overall, while the 2.8 miles apply to this individual hike. This makes it possible to consider the trail network and a particular hike at different planning scales.

Fishing and Whitewater Rafting on the Skykomish River

The Big Eddy Boat Launch in Gold Bar provides access to fishing on the Skykomish River. Check conditions at the site before heading out. Gold Bar is also a destination for whitewater rafting on the Skykomish River. River conditions vary by season, so factor them into your activity planning.

Scenery and Routes in the Surrounding Area

Gold Bar is part of the Upper Skykomish River Valley. The area has tall trees, waterfalls and granite cliffs, and river, climbing and hiking guides share their knowledge of the region. Reiter Foothills is also near Gold Bar, in subalpine terrain two miles northeast of the town.

Nearby is also Reiter Foothills State Forest, with 4x4, ATV, motorcycle and trials bike routes. The trails at Wallace Falls State Park are for hiking, while motorized options are available in the State Forest—a specific distinction when choosing an activity.

The motorized area of Reiter Foothills can be reached from Gold Bar via U.S. Highway 2, Reiter Road and Deer Flats Road. Road conditions and closures may change; check them before driving.

Local History and Culture

Gold Bar has a history shaped by mining and logging. According to local tradition, the name Gold Bar is linked to traces of gold that prospector Boyce is said to have discovered in the Skykomish River.

Gold panning, local crafts, live music and food are among the offerings at the Gold Dust Days Heritage Festival. The Gold Bar Depot Museum & Historical Society focuses on history programs. Alongside local history, festivals and museum exhibits are cultural aspects of Gold Bar.

Discover more destinations: Edmonds, Lake Stevens, Mountlake Terrace, Snohomish, Stanwood, Granite Falls, Index, Maltby

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