After researching the many different waterfalls near Seattle, I found myself at Snoqualmie Falls. Shortly after my first visit, I found myself learning how to whitewater kayak just below the falls. This area has become a place near and dear to my heart, and my love of Washington State. Just a 45 minute drive from Seattle, this is one of the best places to visit when you’re unsure of what to do on a day off. In this blog I will talk about all of the reasons I love visiting Snoqualmie Falls!
Snoqualmie Falls Overview
Snoqualmie Falls is great example of what makes the PNW such a special place to live or visit. This iconic water fall is 268 feet tall! One of the great things about Snoqualmie Falls is how easy it is to access. This makes visiting a great experience for people of all ages. Depending on the season, you’ll see people swimming or kayak near the bottom of the falls. There are trails that wind from the river below the falls up to the lodge at the top of Snoqualmie Falls. This makes Snoqualmie Falls the perfect area to spend an afternoon exploring outside!
Getting to Snoqualmie Falls is easy. If you’re heading there from Seattle, you’re going to take I-90 to Fall City. From there, you will head east and follow the signs up to the top or the bottom parking lot at the falls.
For Google Maps directions to the top parking lot click here.
For Google Maps directions to the bottom parking lot click here.
History of Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls, located in the scenic Snoqualmie Valley of Washington State, holds a rich and storied history that spans millennia. Formed by the Snoqualmie River cascading over a precipice of nearly 270 feet, the falls have long been revered by the indigenous Snoqualmie Tribe, who consider them a sacred site. For centuries, the Snoqualmie people have gathered at the falls for ceremonies, rituals, and spiritual reflection, viewing them as a source of power and connection to the natural world.
European settlers arrived in the Snoqualmie Valley in the mid-19th century, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The falls soon became a popular destination for tourists and sightseers, drawn by their majestic beauty and awe-inspiring power. In 1899, the Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Plant was built near the base of the falls, harnessing their energy to generate electricity for the burgeoning city of Seattle. This marked a significant turning point in the history of the falls, as they transitioned from a natural wonder to an industrial powerhouse, fueling the growth and development of the region.
Over the years, Snoqualmie Falls has consistently captivated visitors from around the world. As a result, it has attracted artists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts eager to witness its breathtaking beauty. Furthermore, the falls have been featured in numerous works of art, literature, and film, thereby cementing their status as an iconic symbol of the Pacific Northwest. Today, Snoqualmie Falls continues to be a popular tourist destination. Consequently, it offers visitors the opportunity to admire its natural splendor, learn about its cultural significance, and marvel at the ingenuity of human engineering that has harnessed its power for over a century.
Snoqualmie Falls Lodge
Sitting on the cliffs overlooking Snoqualmie Falls is the historic Snoqualmie Falls Lodge. Built in 1916, the lodge was originally constructed as a destination for travelers seeking respite amidst the natural beauty of the Snoqualmie Valley. Nestled amidst towering evergreens and framed by sweeping views of the falls below, the lodge quickly became a beloved haven for visitors from near and far.
The Snoqualmie Falls Lodge offers a range of amenities and activities for guests. The lodge’s dining room serves Pacific Northwest cuisine inspired by locally-sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, the lodge’s spa provides a sanctuary for rejuvenation and self-care, offering a variety of treatments and therapies designed to soothe the body, mind, and soul.
For those eager to explore the surrounding area, the Snoqualmie Falls Lodge serves as the perfect basecamp for outdoor adventures. Guests can embark on scenic hikes through Snoqualmie Falls Park, paddle along the Snoqualmie River, or tee off at one of the nearby golf courses. And of course, no visit to the lodge would be complete without taking in the awe-inspiring beauty of Snoqualmie Falls itself, whether from the vantage point of the lodge’s observation deck or on a leisurely stroll along the trails that wind down to the base of the falls.
Snoqualmie Falls Hiking Trail
One of the best ways to experience Snoqualmie Falls is by taking a short hike to the viewing platforms. To reach the falls, a trail guides visitors down from the parking area. This trail, suitable for hikers of most skill levels and ages, spans 1.4 miles round trip and features a 240-foot elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll find many benches to take breaks, as well as bathrooms with water fountains located in both parking lots. Additionally, for a detailed description of the Snoqualmie Falls hiking trail, you can click here for the Washington Trail Association’s overview.
The trail is well marked, and hard to get lost on. I have noticed many people will start their hike in the top lot without realizing the elevation gain on this trail. If you start at the top, you’ll be leaving all of the uphill for the very end. So, keep this in mind before you begin. There have been a few time when I’ve been in the bottom lot getting ready to kayak and I am asked to help drive elderly people or children back up to the top lot. Make sure you know what you’re getting into, and if a hike is not within your accessibility range just start at the lower lot.
Other Activities Near Snoqualmie Falls
Whitewater kayaking: This is an amazing spot for whitewater kayaking! The whitewater run starts at the beach access near the falls, and takes out just 1-2 miles north at the Plums Landing Takeout. This area should not be kayaked alone or without proper whitewater knowledge. It’s important to understand basic river safety and have a group of people with you who understand rivers before heading out on this section. If you’re interested in learning how to whitewater kayak, consider taking a beginners course through the Washington Kayak Club.
Snoqualmie River Float:
Below the class two section on whitewater there is a class 1-2 section that can be easily floated in tubes. There are a few things to keep in mind before heading out on this river float.
- Be aware of the temperature outside. Many people float this river in the summer on warm days, but the water is still cold. You don’t want to end up in the middle of this float and have cold, rainy weather blow in. Be sure you’re going out on a hot day or dress for the cold.
- Wear a life jacket. Each year multiple people get into serious accidents resulting in injury and death on this stretch of river. Many of these incidents can be avoided by simply wearing a life jacket.
- Avoid logs in the river. Logs or fallen trees in the river are a serious hazard. If you see a log in the water, swim away from this and avoid having you or your tube run into it.
The Snoqualmie River Float can be done through a local company if you prefer rather than going out on your own. Visit Fall City Floating to find out more information on pricing and availability.
Nearby Hiking Trails:
This area of Washington state brims with hiking trails. Near Seattle and Snoqualmie Falls, you’ll find many different hikes; however, I’ve listed a few of my favorites below.
- Franklin Falls: Easy difficulty. 2 miles round trip. 400 feet of elevation gain.
- Denny Creek: Easy to moderate difficulty. 6 miles round trip. 1345 feet elevation gain.
- Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail: Easy to moderate difficulty. 12 miles round trip. 1650 feet of elevation gain.
Why Winter is the Perfect Time to Visit
While Snoqualmie Falls is a year-round attraction, winter holds a special charm. With the rainy season in full swing, water levels at the falls are typically higher. This creates a more dramatic sight. The surrounding landscape comes alive with vibrant shades of green, contrasting beautifully with the frothy white waters of the falls.
Plan Your Visit
Be sure to check the current trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to pack appropriate gear. This includes sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing, especially during the wetter months. I also reccomend going on a weekday evening. Being only 45 minutes from Seattle, it’s nice to visit after work. This also helps you avoid the weekend traffic!
For more information on visiting Snoqualmie Falls, including directions and trail maps, visit the official website of the Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theater & Family Park.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Snoqualmie Falls is a great area to visit if you’re traveling to Seattle. It offers you a PNW escape with ought too much difficulty. Logistics for getting to the falls are fairly easy, and the trails make it accessible for most people. So, no matter who you’re traveling with, plan on stopping at Snoqualmie Falls!
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