Boulder Creek In The Rain

April 13th

During my last visit to Boulder Creek, I met a couple and we talked for a while. The husband told me that Boulder Creek, which flows from Mt. Baker into Baker Lake (and ultimately the Skagit River) can be a raging torrent if there is a sudden snow melt. This was most likely to happen if chinook winds arrive. These are exceptionally warm winds, which raise the temperatures by a large amount. There were no winds blowing this day, but it was quite a bit warmer than it has been for a while, and it was also raining, both of which contribute to melting snow. So, I thought it might be worth the trip, just to look.

Boulder Creek, after some warmth and rain, but not much flow

Well, alas, Boulder Creek was flowing more vigorously than on my last visit, but still not all that exciting. Mt. Baker is hidden behind the clouds, above the trees in the middle of the image.

Boulder Creek, after some warmth and rain, but not much flow

The creek was flowing with some vigour, but none of those trees had been deposited during this flow. Perhaps earlier it would have been more active. Still, there's plenty of snow to melt this year, so perhaps there will be a time.

Moss growing on trees in the shadow of mountains

On the shady end of the bridge over Boulder Creek, the trees are covered in moss - I think this might be spanish moss though I wouldn't want to bet on that.

Boulder Creek, after some warmth and rain, but not much flow

Looking down Boulder Creek towards Lake Baker.

Getting There

I've been riding quite a bit of late, and this day was no exception. The RT is the better bike for a day like this - considerably more protection for the rider from the weather.

RT at Boulder Creek

Ready to return home.