Nooksack Falls is less than a mile from the Baker Highway is one of the most visited falls in the state of Washington being frequented by travelers all year round. During the summer months visitors can drive along Wells Creek Road and park their vehicles just before reaching the bridge. During the winter months only snow skiers and people in snow shoes can make the short trip. For a safe and beautiful view of Nooksack Falls there is a fenced area that begins at the road. The waterfall plunges almost 100 feet in three different segments and at its widest measures almost 30 feet across. It has been said that many people fell to their death from Nooksack Falls as a result of carelessly getting too close to the edge.
The Nooksack Falls area is known for being picturesque with lush foliage and trees. It is a favorite spot for people to stop and watch birds and take nature photographs. Aerial views of Nooksack Falls have shown up on many postcards as professional and amateur photographers have taken the opportunity to capture some breathtaking pictures. There are several types of wildlife mammals, birds and fish that can be found in the Nooksack Falls area.
During the late 1800's the Nooksack Falls region served as a hot bed of several minerals. The most significant discovery was the Lone Jack Claim of 1897 that yielded thousands of dollars of gold. The mine was closed in 1924 and ended up yielding a total of a half a million dollars in gold. As a result of the Lone Jack claim the area became known as the Mount Baker Mining District.
Nooksack Falls is along the North Fork of the Nooksack River. The Nooksack River is comprised of the Middle Fork, North Fork and South Fork. The North Fork is considered the main part of the river. The Nooksack River is approximately 75 miles long. All of the forks originate in the Mount Baker wilderness.
The North Fork flows generally to the west passing to the north of Mount Baker. The North Fork parallels State Route 542 also known as Mount Baker Highway. Nooksack Falls is formed as the North Fork of the Nooksack flows through a narrow valley. The kiosk in the parking lot nearby contains information about the falls and the hydroelectric project that was once there.
The water from the Nooksack Falls once supplied hydroelectricity in the early 20th century. The plant operated for over 80 years before being shut down in 1997.
After descending over the falls the North Fork waters flow west where it receives waters from Wells Creek, Glacier Creek and Canyon Creek. Due to the high rainfall amounts and deep snow packs of the area the river is subject to frequent flooding.
Nooksack Falls was featured in the 1978 war drama film starring famous actor Robert De Niro about a trio of Russian steel worker friends and their service in the Vietnam War. The falls were featured in a hunting scene of the movie.
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