Boulder Creek Wilderness

Small waterfalls and rapids connect the series of quiet pools that make up Boulder Creek, a tributary of the North Umpqua River. Ponderosa pines flourish on Pine Bench, near the lower end of the Wilderness, and are thought to be the largest such stand this far northwest of the crest of the Cascade Mountains. The rocky monoliths and outcroppings attract — and challenge — technical rock climbers, especially in the southern portion's Umpqua Rocks Special Interest Geologic Area. Elevations range from 1,600 feet to 5,600 feet. The Spring Fire in 1996 and the Rattle Fire in 2008 burned most of this Wilderness area. Expect rapid brush growth and persistent blowdown on the 10 miles of maintained trails in the years to come.