Falls Trails is about a one mile loop that passes the
"Twin" Falls; Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls. Mostly level or moderate
grade, it has one extremely rocky section that is difficult to walk, let alone ride. Those
hard soled biking shoes that are so great for riding slip and slide all over smooth rocks.
To reach the trailhead, take the first road to the right after you
pass the park entrance. It's well marked since the trail highlights the parks namesake
waterfalls. After turning right off the main road, go left at the fork, and follow the
pavement back to a parking area. The trail continues past the gate and splits off into a
loop. I'll describe the ride as ridden from the parking area and taking the RIGHT fork at
the loop intersection.
Marsh Fork Falls is right past the parking area, so the first thing
to do is ride over and check out the falls. Afterward, clip in and continue on, taking the
RIGHT fork where the trail splits into the loop. The trail is wide, and rocky, but fun.
After a short distance, the trail will split again. Take the LEFT fork. If you come to a
water crossing you've taken the wrong trail. I took the right fork and it was an hour and
my feet were soaking wet before I got back.
After a couple hundred yards of good trail, the rocky section
begins. This section must be close to ¼ mile long, and it is difficult to stay upright
in. Either bite the bullet and hammer through the whole thing as hard as you can, or
dismount and commit yourself to a leisurely stroll through the rocks. The second
waterfall, Black Fork Falls, is at the end of this rocky section. There are foot trails
down to the falls.
From here, ride up a short easy grade to the intersection with the Nature Trail and Hemlock Trail. Hemlock
heads off to the right, and the Nature Trail is up to the left.
Make a tight left turn, pass the sign for the Nature Trail on
your right, and head up an easy grade. A short ½ mile and you're back to the loop
intersection. Follow the paved trail back to the parking area and you're finished!
I'd like to hear your feedback on these trail reviews.
Please e-mail me at bill@wmhoey.com with your
comments.