Switchback Falls

Switchback Falls is a small two-step waterfall on an unnamed branch of Big Blowout Creek, between two sharp switchbacks of the Department of Natural Resources Bessemer Road in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie valley near North Bend. From the gated road, walk uphill; it climbs gently for the first mile to where it meets the CCC Trail. Keep following the main road up the hill past all branching trails and spurs. About a mile and three-quarters from the trailhead is an active quarry; stay clear of trucks, equipment and the quarry area. Continue straight past the quarry and up three sharp switchbacks. At 2.6 miles the road crosses the stream directly below the falls. Return the same way. A large debris flow stripped the trees around the falls and destroyed the road in four places where it crosses this stream, so expect rough crossings.