
Snoqualmie Falls
A majestic 270-foot waterfall near Seattle, offering stunning views, hiking, and a touch of 'Twin Peaks' fame.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Snoqualmie Falls
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 270-foot waterfall near Seattle, offering stunning views, hiking, and a touch of 'Twin Peaks' fame.
"The most amazing waterfalls I have seen! Don't miss out if you are visiting Seattle."

🚗 Parking & Entry
Parking is generally plentiful and free, though some reviews mention a $7 fee. :car:
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes for the trail to the base, which can be steep and gravelly. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Falls
Main Observation Deck
Witness the awe-inspiring 270-foot cascade, a truly breathtaking natural spectacle.

Trail to the Base
Lower Trailhead
Embark on a steeper hike for a powerful, up-close experience of the roaring water.

Twin Peaks Connection
Nearby
Explore hiking trails in the area, including those leading up Twin Peaks for panoramic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Entry
Parking is generally plentiful and free, though some reviews mention a $7 fee. :car:
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes for the trail to the base, which can be steep and gravelly. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Rainbow Spotting
Visit on a sunny day after rain for a chance to see a beautiful rainbow over the falls. :rainbow:
🚌 Public Transport Option
Yes, you can reach Snoqualmie Falls by bus! :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Entry
Parking is generally plentiful and free, though some reviews mention a $7 fee. :car:
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes for the trail to the base, which can be steep and gravelly. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Rainbow Spotting
Visit on a sunny day after rain for a chance to see a beautiful rainbow over the falls. :rainbow:
🚌 Public Transport Option
Yes, you can reach Snoqualmie Falls by bus! :bus:
☕ Cafe & Restrooms
There's a cafe at the top and restrooms at both the top and bottom viewing areas. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Snoqualmie Falls for its breathtaking beauty and impressive cascade, often calling it a must-see natural wonder. The easy accessibility from the main viewpoint is a major plus, though some find the trail to the base steep. While parking is generally good, occasional fees and mixed reviews on nearby dining options are noted.
"Fantastic sight seeing point. The waterfall is beautiful. Hydroelectric power plant is adjacent.
walking around the place one can see nice spots. River is clean.
Washroom needs to be cleaned and improved.
Good parking space is available."
Venugopal Bhat
"An incredible bang for the effort! Paved walkway to the upper decks with accessible parking, both free and paid parking. If you want to go closer. You can hike to the bottom or park in the lower parking lot to see the lower falls. They were raging hard when I was there!"
Monique Maxwell
"Snoqualmie Falls is a stunning and easily accessible waterfall, perfect for anyone looking for natural beauty without a long hike. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Seattle, and you can enjoy an incredible view right from the main viewpoint.
The area is very visitor-friendly, with a café, a gift shop, and both free and paid parking options. For those who want to explore more, there are walking paths and a trail that leads down closer to the river. Restrooms are available on-site.
Highly recommended for a quick getaway, family trip."
Danish Danish
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Snoqualmie Falls is approximately a 40-minute drive from downtown Seattle, making it a popular day trip destination. You can also reach it by bus, which is a great option for those without a car.
Yes, Snoqualmie Falls is generally safe to visit year-round. While snow can occur, the main viewing areas are usually accessible, and the roads are maintained.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Snoqualmie Falls. However, public transportation options are available, including bus routes.
While there's a trail to the bottom, driving directly to the base is not typically an option. The main parking is at the top, with a hike down to the lower viewpoint.
Yes, various tour operators offer trips to Snoqualmie Falls, often as part of a larger Seattle or PNW itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entry fee to visit Snoqualmie Falls. Parking is also often free, though some visitors have noted a small parking fee.
Snoqualmie Falls is a natural attraction and is typically open to visitors from dawn until dusk. The park and observation areas are accessible during daylight hours.
No, tickets are not required for Snoqualmie Falls as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, always check for any temporary closures or advisories before your visit, especially during severe weather conditions.
The trail to the bottom of the falls is usually open, but it can be steep and challenging. Restrooms at the lower end have sometimes been closed, with portapotties available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning 270-foot waterfall from the observation deck, hike down to the base for a closer view, and explore the surrounding park with informative placards.
The trail to the bottom is described as pretty steep and a bit of a challenge by some visitors. It's a shaded, gravelly path that can be briefly steep.
Yes, it's quite common to see a rainbow at Snoqualmie Falls, especially on sunny days when the mist from the falls catches the light.
Restrooms are available at both the top and bottom viewing areas. However, the lower restrooms have occasionally been closed, with portapotties provided.
Snoqualmie Falls is a significant natural landmark and a sacred site for the Snoqualmie Tribe. It's also famous for its appearance in the TV show 'Twin Peaks.'
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe at the top of the falls. For more extensive dining, the Salish Lodge & Spa offers a restaurant with views, and Snoqualmie Casino has several dining options, including Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood.
Salish Lodge & Spa offers dining experiences with views of the falls. They have a restaurant and a terrace bar, with options that can cater to various preferences.
Yes, Snoqualmie Casino offers a buffet experience. However, reviews for the buffet can be mixed, with some finding the food 'mid.'
While there aren't designated picnic areas explicitly mentioned, the park setting is conducive to enjoying a packed lunch. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Snoqualmie Casino features several dining venues, including Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood, known for its ambiance and live piano music on weekends, and a buffet.
📸 📸 Photography
The main observation deck offers iconic views. For a different perspective, the trail to the base provides dramatic shots of the water's power. Keep an eye out for rainbows!
Absolutely! Visiting on a sunny day after rain significantly increases your chances of capturing a stunning rainbow over the falls.
Early morning light can be beautiful and less crowded. Midday sun can be harsh, but the mist can create interesting effects. Late afternoon light can also be lovely.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the falls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trail to the base is steeper and might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, it offers a more adventurous experience for older kids. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to a cafe at the top or more extensive choices a short drive away.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Seattle
To make the most of your day trip, aim to go early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Pack comfortable shoes if you plan to hike down to the base of the falls for a different perspective. Consider stopping for lunch at Salish Lodge or exploring dining options in the town of Snoqualmie before heading back to the city.
🎬 Twin Peaks Enthusiasts
Combine your visit to the falls with a stop at the historic Salish Lodge & Spa, which also played a significant role in the show. Explore the surrounding areas that inspired the show's unique aesthetic. While the town of Twin Peaks is fictional, the real-life locations like Snoqualmie Falls offer a tangible connection to the beloved series.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of the Falls
For a more immersive experience, the trail leading to the base of the falls provides a dramatic, up-close encounter with the roaring water. This hike is described as steep and gravelly, requiring sturdy footwear. Visitors often compare the falls to other famous cascades like Skogafoss. The presence of a hydroelectric power plant adjacent to the falls also adds an interesting industrial element to the natural landscape.
Beyond the falls themselves, the area offers opportunities for further exploration. Nearby Twin Peaks provides additional hiking trails with panoramic views, and the scenic drive to Snoqualmie Falls is often highlighted for its natural beauty, with lush trees and potential glimpses of snow-capped mountains.
Twin Peaks and Pop Culture
Fans often visit the falls to recreate iconic moments or simply to soak in the atmosphere that inspired the surreal and mysterious world of Twin Peaks. The Salish Lodge & Spa, located near the falls, also played a significant role in the series, further enhancing the connection for enthusiasts. The area around Snoqualmie Falls, including the nearby Twin Peaks, offers further hiking opportunities that echo the show's atmospheric settings.
Whether you're a dedicated fan of 'Twin Peaks' or simply appreciate stunning natural scenery, the cultural significance of Snoqualmie Falls adds another layer of intrigue to a visit. It's a place where natural beauty meets cinematic history, creating a unique and memorable experience for all who come.
Dining Delights Near the Falls
For those seeking a more casual or varied culinary adventure, the Snoqualmie Casino is a short drive away and boasts several eateries. This includes Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood, which offers a sophisticated ambiance, live piano music on weekends, and a menu of prime cuts and fresh seafood. The casino also features a buffet, though reviews suggest the quality can be inconsistent.
For a quick bite or a more budget-friendly option, a cafe is available at the top of the falls. Visitors can also consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of the park, making sure to leave no trace.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit