A free outdoor light show that's been called "a paradise of color in the wilderness" has been turned back on at City Light's hydroelectric project in the town of Newhalem.

City Light superintendent Jorge Carrasco on Tuesday flipped the switch that relaunched the historic light show at Ladder Creek Falls in Whatcom County.

The show, which begins at dusk and runs continuously until midnight, will be offered every day of the year, at no charge to visitors.

"It is a thrill to bring back this spectacular light show at Ladder Creek Falls," said Carrasco in a release. "Over the years, the beautiful lights have created special memories for thousands of visitors."

Newhalem is about a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle. While the North Cascades Highway closes every winter, Newhalem is before the closure and the light show won't be affected for those driving from the west side of the state, said City Light spokesman Scott Thomsen

In the 1920s and 1930s, City Light's first superintendent, J.D. Ross, installed gardens and colored lights at the falls to create what he called "a paradise of color in the wilderness." But over the years the lights fell into disrepair, and by 2004 the lighting system was completely dark.

In 2008, City Light began working to restart the show, hiring firms to design and install new LED lights, a seating area and benches at a cost of $1.6 million. The lights, which use 90 percent less electricity than the old lights did, can be programmed for any color for any length of time.

The outdoor show lasts about 15 minutes, but Thomsen said visitors can watch it from different angles and see a completely different show each time.

Ladder Creek Falls is a brief walk on a well-marked trail from City Light's Gorge Powerhouse, Thomsen said. He said City Light hopes to offer special holiday programming with the lights.

Susan Gilmore: 206-464-2054 or sgilmore@seattletimes.com