Coal Creek Falls | Belleville

Coal Creek Falls is a picturesque 28-foot waterfall nestled within the expansive Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, located near Bellevue, Washington. This natural feature is a highlight of the park’s trail system, drawing visitors seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and a glimpse into the region’s rich mining heritage. The waterfall and its surrounding trails provide a relatively easy and accessible hiking experience suitable for families, casual walkers, and nature enthusiasts.

Location and Access

Coal Creek Falls is accessed primarily via the Red Town Trailhead, which is situated at the intersection of Lakemont Boulevard SE and Newcastle-Coal Creek Road. This trailhead provides parking spaces, restroom facilities, and picnic tables, making it a convenient starting point for visitors. Due to its popularity, parking can fill up quickly during weekends, holidays, and peak seasons, so early arrival is recommended. The park itself is part of the larger Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, a protected natural area that spans over 3,000 acres of forested terrain.

Trail Description and Hiking Experience

The hike to Coal Creek Falls is approximately 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 416 feet, making it a moderate and family-friendly trail. The route is primarily an out-and-back format, though it can be combined with other nearby trails for a longer loop.

Starting Point: The journey begins on the Red Town Trail, a wide, well-maintained path suitable for hikers, runners, and equestrians. This section features gentle inclines and dense forest canopy, providing shade and a peaceful atmosphere.

Historical Features: After a short distance, hikers turn onto the Cave Hole Trail, named for the numerous depressions left from past underground coal mining operations. These "cave holes" serve as visible reminders of the area’s industrial past and add a unique historical dimension to the hike. Interpretive signs along this section provide information about the mining history and ecological restoration efforts.

Approach to the Falls: Approximately 0.6 miles from the Cave Hole Trail junction, the trail narrows and descends into a shaded ravine. This section leads to the Coal Creek Falls Trail, where hikers cross a sturdy log bridge spanning Coal Creek just before arriving at the waterfall viewpoint.

The Waterfall

Coal Creek Falls itself is a gentle cascade dropping about 28 feet over moss-covered rocks into a small pool below. The falls are surrounded by lush Pacific Northwest vegetation including ferns, mosses, and towering evergreens, which create a tranquil and shaded microclimate. The sound of cascading water combined with the natural forest setting offers a serene retreat from urban life.

Seasonal Variations

The waterfall’s flow varies significantly with seasonal weather patterns:

Winter and Spring: During the rainy months, especially from January through March, Coal Creek Falls is at its most impressive, with a robust and steady stream of water cascading down. This is the optimal time for viewing the falls in their full glory.

Summer: In drier months, water flow decreases substantially, sometimes reducing the falls to a trickle or causing them to dry up altogether. Despite this, the surrounding forest remains beautiful and is still worth exploring.

Fall: The area around the falls transforms with vibrant autumn colors, providing stunning photographic opportunities and a different kind of scenic beauty.

Ecological and Historical Significance

Coal Creek Falls is set within Cougar Mountain, an area with a deep history of coal mining that began in the 1860s and continued for about a century. Over 11 million tons of coal were extracted from this region, fueling local economies and development. The remnants of this industry, including the cave holes and old logging stumps, remain visible along the trails, serving as open-air historical artifacts.

Today, Cougar Mountain and Coal Creek Falls are part of a conservation effort focused on ecological restoration, protecting native habitats, and promoting sustainable public enjoyment. The forest surrounding the falls is predominantly second-growth, recovering from past logging and mining activities, and is home to diverse wildlife including birds, deer, and small mammals.

Visitor Amenities and Safety

The trail and surrounding park area are well-maintained, with clear signage and marked paths to guide visitors. The terrain near the falls includes some uneven surfaces, roots, and steps, so appropriate footwear is recommended. While the trail is generally safe for families, caution is advised near the creek and waterfall edges, especially with children.

Dogs are permitted on leash, allowing visitors to enjoy the hike with pets. The availability of picnic tables and restrooms near the trailhead enhances visitor comfort and encourages longer stays.

Additional Trail Connections

For those seeking a longer hike or varied terrain, Coal Creek Falls Trail connects to other segments within Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, including the Red Town Trail and various loop trails. This allows hikers to extend their outdoor experience and explore the broader forested landscape, including viewpoints, other creeks, and wildlife habitats.

Summary

Coal Creek Falls is a scenic, accessible waterfall hike located in the heart of Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park near Bellevue. Its combination of natural beauty, gentle terrain, and historical context make it a rewarding destination for a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether visiting for a family outing, nature walk, or a brief escape into the forest, the trail to Coal Creek Falls offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by the lush environment of the Pacific Northwest and a living connection to the area’s mining heritage.