Big Creek Falls

Take a leisurely hike on an old logging road to a beautiful waterfall.

From the Middle Fork Road, drive to the end and park at the Snoqualmie Lake Trailhead, 12 miles from the beginning of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road. Start from the small parking area and admire the wide Taylor River as you cross a paved bridge. Pass a couple of dispersed camping sites and come to a junction with the Quartz Creek trail branching off to the left at about 0.5 miles. Take the right fork, staying on a relatively flat, rocky trail that heads through quiet forest. Moss-laden birches, western redcedars, and western hemlocks tower over you.

Along the trail, Taylor River rushes past you, and craggy Garfield Peak plays hide-and-seek through the trees. Near a creek crossing, the forest opens up, offering hikers a glimpse of a spire of Treen Peak.

After three miles, come to a large bridge spanning roaring Marten Creek. A bootpath veers off to the left just before the bridge – a mile’s hike up this primitive, overgrown trail takes you to Marten Lake. Take photos at the bridge and then press on, crossing roughly ten drainages before the turn-off for Otter Falls.

With spring’s high waters, some of these crossings can be tricky. Hiking poles are very helpful in high water. Keep in mind that rocks can be loose or slippery with moss – don’t attempt any crossing that you feel uncomfortable tackling.

Pass the turnoff for Otter Falls and just around the corner, find yourself at Big Creek Falls, visible from the second bridge on your hike, a large concrete affair, another remnant from the days of logging in this area.