My first visit to Far Country Falls, and it was not what I expected. In fact, at first glance it just looked like a moss-covered rocky ravine. But it's really a beautiful spot, quiet and secluded, with many rivulets filtering down between the rocks. I found it hard to photograph, too, so I recommend you go and check it out in person.

All the way from the Red Town trailhead to the falls, trails were lined with bleeding heart, frequently comingled with candy flower (miner's lettuce?). I wonder if these species are symbiotic (I'm pretty ignorant on the subject of wildflowers—trying to learn more).

I got to Red Town via Coal Creek, but don't have anything to add to other recent reports on that trail.

Cougar Mountain's Springtime splendor is progressing. Now, the bleeding hearts, skunk cabbage and trillium are in their prime along with armies of unseen chorusing frogs. But, the osoberry flowers are dried and the bright greens of its leaves are subdued. Far Country Falls is lush with ferns and highlighted with sunshine 🌞. Despite recent rainfall, no mud or puddles; although the moisture has brightened the moss-laden trunks and branches. Then to top it off, bright orchard tree blossoms near the car park. A truly lovely hike today.

Many thanks for the extensive recent bank stabilization work.

Red Town trailhead is currently inaccessible due to the road (Newcastle Golf Club Road and Lakemont Boulevard SE) being closed. I parked on 155th Ave SE on the main street and walked down a private driveway to get to a trailhead (coordinates 47.53251N, 122.13135W). From there, I turned right at the first junction to head toward Far Country Falls. I had my Gaia App recording where I was, otherwise I probably would've gotten lost. The signs don't do a great job guiding to the Falls from where I started. Once I got there, I had plenty of time and decided to head up the Deceiver Trail to Doughty Falls & Viewpoint. The trail was in great condition all the way, the waterfalls have pretty low water flow right now but were still gorgeous!

I noticed quite a few areas with English laurel and holly that are still manageable to be removed. Both are invasive species, and seeing them in this environment is unnerving--I don't want them to spread more. It would be awesome to get in there with a crew to remove as much as we can! I'd be happy to join. I also picked up some plastic trash, but thankfully not too much considering how many people use these trails. 

Perfect weather today for this splendid day hike!

Cougar Mt, Gobu cliffs trail, Wilderness Peak, Shy Bear trail, Quarry trail, Coal Creek Falls, Far Country Falls, Indian trail, Far Country trail, Far Country viewpoint, Deceiver trail, Doughty Falls, Long View Peak, Whittaker trail

Had the trails to myself for the majority of this hike; only a couple at the beginning, empty until Coal Creek Falls. On the western trails, groups every fifteen minutes, maybe 30 total.

The junction signs are accurate as to direction, though I don't necessarily trust their distances.

9.50mi 950m