Upper Coleman Falls

RATING - 34.0

VR - 4.0 (Sm/M) HR - 5.5 SR - 12/20

TYPE OF APPROACH - Bushwhack

DIFFICULTY - Very Difficult

LOCATION - Swift Creek Trail

TYPE - Cascades

HEIGHT - 129'

WIDTH - 15'

DIRECTIONS - No directions provided. Significant off-trail travel required.

Located about 1/2 a mile upstream from Coleman Falls is this surprisingly significant upper falls. I knew of the existence of this waterfall prior to my trip into the area, but suspected it to be fairly small. When I got there I was surprised to find this very nice waterfall dropping through an amazing piece of billowy bedrock. The visible portion of the falls stands 129' in height, but I'm almost certain that the creek continues as a legitimate waterfall for the entire 213' of the cliff. The view of the upper section requires climbing around some very steep, although grippy and relatively safe, rock and then standing near the edge of a 100'+ tall. It's a cool area even without the waterfall, but the falls put it over the top. It's really difficult to get to this area, but if you happen to be crazy enough to visit Coleman Falls up close, take the scenic route back to the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail right past this awesome waterfall.