Over the years we'd often peer into
Ashdown Gorge while driving on HWY 14 and wondered exactly where was Flanigan Arch; then we read about it and knew we needed to plan a hike. First of all, I want to say this is a great hike for just about anyone. Yes, it requires getting wet and walking on rocks, lots of rocks . . . so be prepared with good sturdy water shoes and some trekking poles. The next day you
might feel some effects from the rocks, just remember how refreshing the water was and how the beauty of Ashdown Gorge made you feel. As Kent would say, 'Feel the pain, love the pain!' and smile!
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| We parked the car . . . made our way down to Coal Creek . . . followed a path that bypassed this concrete spillway . . . and began our trek into the impressive Ashdown Gorge. |
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| It didn't take long to 'wet our feet,' or shall I say get our feet wet! |
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| We knew Flanigan Arch was about a mile into the hike. Many people said it was easy to miss and so we began to keep our eyes peeled. Then we came across this clever sign! |
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| There it is 550 ft above us! One of the highlights of the hike |
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| Kent and Andrew were dwarfed by this canyon wall |
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| I smelled this Nootka Rose before I came upon it; it was quite fragrant |
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| At times, the creek was fast flowing . . . but never got more than knee-deep |
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At about two and half miles into the hike Tom's Head appears . . . it is
here that you want to head north (turn left) and follow Rattlesnake Creek
for a half mile to Lake Creek Falls and Rattlesnake Creek Falls. |
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| This is Little Rattlesnake Creek Falls . . . the water was so clear |
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| Looks like a feather from a Northern Flicker |
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| Great place to be on a hot summer day |
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At the junction of Lake Creek and Rattlesnake Creek set your packs down
and take a break . . . you're almost there!
Each fall is just a short jaunt up these side canyons. |
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| Lake Creek Falls |
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| Here we are! |
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| Andrew, Allison and Kent |
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| Now it's time to go find Rattlesnake Creek Falls |
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| Not a good place to be if it was raining . . . beware of flash floods |
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| Rattlesnake Creek Falls, no snakes . . . just a beautiful waterfall |
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| The rushing creek was so refreshing |
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| The creek was our trail |
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| Don't suppose Kent was trying to keep his feet dry! |
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| Colorful Crimson Columbine |
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This is a seven mile out and back hike . . .
it allows you to enjoy the scenery twice! |
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Just follow the canyon and creek as they twist and turn . . .
it's amazing how slow time passes as you marvel at the beauty of Rattlesnake Canyon |
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| This high alcove was very impressive! |
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| Different shapes, colors and textures |
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I haven't seen the "Game of Thrones," but that's what I would call this pointy peak.
For us it meant our hike was coming to an end . . . an amazing experience it was! |
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Be forewarned . . . flip-flops are not proper footwear for this hike!
Trekking poles are highly recommended, as well as sturdy water shoes!
Plan on spending about six hours to complete the hike.
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Click
here for an interactive guide map showing our route and other possible hikes. Click
here for printable maps of the different routes. Both the guide map and printable maps are courtesy of the
Dye Clan.
