Snoqualmie Falls

The 0.7-mile interpretive trail from the upper falls viewpoints to the lower falls viewpoint is family- and pet-friendly, good for beginners, teaches the basics of the flora and fauna near Snoqualmie Pass, informs about local Native American culture, and ends with impressive views of a Washington icon.

From the railed Falls Viewpoint, head down the walkway and make a right turn, and then a left, leading you behind the gift shop and visitor center. You will come to a kiosk with a map. The broad, gravel trail is just across the access road from the kiosk. As you descend approximately 250 feet over 0.4 miles, take a look at interpretive plaques introducing the native wildlife and provide their Snoqualmie names. Ferns, salmonberry, vine maple, alder, bigleaf maple, western hemlock, Douglas fir, and western redcedar are the major flora here, and they put on a flashy display of color in the fall. This section is a steep, providing a short challenge on the way back up. It is an excellent introduction to the region for novice hikers.

At the bottom of the hill, the trail passes by a lower parking lot and then follows a boardwalk along the river. Take in the sound of the waters crashing as you walk the final flat 0.3 miles to a viewpoint of the river curtaining down in a cloud of spray. Read the signs that chronicle the falls’ historical and cultural significance.

The Snoqualmie Tribe consider the falls to be humanity’s place of origin. The indigenous peoples of this region came, and continue to come, to this sacred place for restoration and reflection.The Snoqualmie Tribe continues to be an active steward of this place and asks you to be mindful when visiting.  Since 1898 the Snoqualmie River’s 268-foot drop has been used to generate electricity, now the site is now managed by Puget Sound Energy.  In the early 90s, Snoqualmie Falls became a cult icon when it featured prominently in the credit sequence to David Lynch's television series "Twin Peaks". The success of the show turned the falls into a local landmark that draws 1.5 million visitors per year.

Though you may be tempted to get closer to the famed falls, please don’t climb over the gate or railings to the river below, as the surfaces are often slippery, and river levels may change unpredictably.

WTA Pro Tip: After your hike, continue east on SR-202 for 1 mile for a visit to historic Snoqualmie, with its boutique shops, small restaurants, and train museum.