Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie, Washington
Details
Distance
1.4 miles
Elevation Gain
509 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Michael Gabbert
This is a short hike, more of a walk, to this amazing waterfall of about 270 feet. To see the falls at their best, head there after a recent rain storm.
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Washington. The waterfall is almost 270 feet tall and ranges in width all the way up to 150 feet when the water is really running.
On sunny, warm days, it can be a little overrun with tourists. Figure out where you want to get your photo from and be patient. Folks tend to be pretty friendly and stay out of the way once it's your turn. Don't be surprised if you're asked to help out with taking a group photo or 2.
The hike to the falls is pretty relaxed, but can save you a little time. There is a shelter for the upper part falls, but you can also head to the base of the falls. There is parking at the base of the waterfall, so a lot of tourists will take that route, but you should just hike down. To get to the base, take the nature trail down to the river, which is located near the observation platform and has a sign leading you in the right direction. The trail adds a little scenery to the falls as you head down the path through old trees down to the base.
During drier months, at your own risk, you can head to the end of the boardwalk and hop on a few rocks to get a closer look at the falls. Make sure to pay close attention to how fast and high the water is running.
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Reviews
The volume of water pumping over Snoqualmie Falls is simply spectacular. I visited on a rainy day and the lower falls were closed, but the upper falls view was great!
4.0
We were here last Saturday the 18th of August and wanted to take pictures of the falls from the boardwalk but it was closed due to under repair. We decided to hike down anyways for just a workout. The hike was short and there were so many gigantic trees along the way. We saw enough for some photos but it would have been much nicer if we could have a full view of the whole thing. We will be back once the boardwalk is finished. Still beautiful and worth the trip.
4.0
Awesome waterfall, but access was disappointingly restricted by a boardwalk and gate that does not let you go closer to the waterfall or on the shore for a better angle to shoot!
3.0
The falls themselves are incredible, but add the fact that they are only an hour drive from downtown Seattle and that its a relatively easy hike makes it that much better. I can't believe something this amazing is so close! Quick tip: there is a lower parking lot very close to the lower boardwalk however I recommend doing the entire hike (really its a walk) as it lets you immerse yourself into the Snoqualmie area!
5.0
The Snoqualmie Falls were beautiful, breathtaking, and mesmerizing! It's very easy to find and free. The half mile trail close by enhances the experience of an actual adventure 👍👍
5.0
Get past the paved tourist spots and you'll enjoy a beautiful view! Took my two-year-old son here in June, and it was lovely. Easy hike down to the river, but very rocky to get to the base of the waterfall. The water is crystal clear and refreshing in the summer. Definitely recommend for beginning adventurers! The history of the waterfall is interesting, and there is a gift shop with the best huckleberry tea and honey I've ever had. Worth the trip!
4.0
This is a popular tourist destination, but do not be discouraged by all the people on the paved road at the viewpoints up above. Few actually make the trek down below. The hike is easy going down, just make sure you save enough energy to make it back up after exploring and climbing around the rocks down below the waterfall. It is always misty down there so be prepared to get wet. And go earlier in the summer when water levels are higher especially with the dry summer we have had although still spectacular Snoqualmie Falls is smaller this time of year.
5.0
They have the bottom of the falls blocked off but if you're nimble enough it's no trouble getting over the fence and down the stone steps.
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Ride to the Snoqualmie Railroad Trestle
Rattlesnake Mountain Traverse Run
Hike Rattlesnake Mountain
Spend a Night at TreeHouse Point
Hike Little Si
Mt. Si
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