Snoqualmie Falls
Iconic 270-foot waterfall near Seattle, offering stunning views, accessible paths, and a historic lodge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Snoqualmie Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 270-foot waterfall near Seattle, offering stunning views, accessible paths, and a historic lodge.
"A breathtaking natural wonder just a short drive from Seattle!"
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking at Snoqualmie Falls typically has a fee, around $6. :moneybag:
🥾 Trail to the River
The hike down to the river is about 1.5 miles and can be challenging for some. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Falls
Main viewing areas
Witness the breathtaking 270-foot cascade of Snoqualmie Falls, a truly iconic Washington State landmark.
Salish Lodge Overlook
Adjacent to Salish Lodge
Enjoy unparalleled views of the falls from the terrace of the historic Salish Lodge, famous from Twin Peaks.
Forest Trail to River
Trail connecting middle and lower decks
Hike through lush forests to reach the riverbank for a unique, up-close perspective of the powerful falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking at Snoqualmie Falls typically has a fee, around $6. :moneybag:
🥾 Trail to the River
The hike down to the river is about 1.5 miles and can be challenging for some. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Incredible photo opportunities abound, especially during autumn. :camerawithflash:
☕ Nearby Amenities
Enjoy a meal or coffee at the Salish Lodge or grab a souvenir from the gift shop. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking at Snoqualmie Falls typically has a fee, around $6. :moneybag:
🥾 Trail to the River
The hike down to the river is about 1.5 miles and can be challenging for some. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Incredible photo opportunities abound, especially during autumn. :camerawithflash:
☕ Nearby Amenities
Enjoy a meal or coffee at the Salish Lodge or grab a souvenir from the gift shop. :coffee:
🌳 Nurse Trees
Look out for unique 'nurse trees' growing on top of fallen logs. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Snoqualmie Falls for its breathtaking beauty and accessibility, making it a must-see natural wonder near Seattle. While parking can be a challenge and the hike down to the river requires some effort, the stunning views and historical significance of the site are widely appreciated. It's a popular spot for photography and a great family-friendly outing.
"It's always a beautiful time here at the falls. It's a great walk for an elderly love one as well. If you have an assistive device, there are ramps that make navigation smooth. My favorite time to come up here is in autumn right before the rainy season. You'll get to see the transition of the foliage. It is absolutely gorgeous, a nice brisk walk and there are some picnic areas here to stop and get a snap from the gift shop or bring your own sandwiches and snacks and enjoy the views! Awesome photo opportunities! Came up here years ago to have anniversary photos taken, this was before it became too saturated with non- local tourist! Parking does get full, but there is plenty of accessible parking available!"
Hi My Name Is (Queen Icy)
"Before there was internet access this was a little known gem.
Its a bustling tourist area now with a little restaurant and the store. There is a great hotel overlooking the falls and multiple viewing areas.
Its clean and beautiful and worth the drive.
You can still climb down for a swim in a few areas. Shh...."
Dee Roberts
"This is a beautiful place to visit. It has an easy trail going down the falls and saw some people kayaking and swimming on the river as well. Kid friendly as well, and a picturesque view from one of the lodge and restaurant."
Mace Piratecitizen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Snoqualmie Falls is conveniently located about 30-40 minutes (28 miles) east of Seattle, making it an easy day trip. :car: You can drive there via I-90 E.
Public transportation options are limited. While some tours might offer transport, driving is the most common way to reach Snoqualmie Falls.
Visiting in winter is generally safe even without snow tires, as the main roads are usually well-maintained. However, always check road conditions before you go.
While you can't hike directly to the falls from Seattle, there are hiking trails at Snoqualmie Falls, including a forest trail to the river.
Yes, various tours operate to Snoqualmie Falls, often combined with other attractions. Check with local tour operators for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to visit Snoqualmie Falls itself, but parking typically incurs a fee, usually around $6. :moneybag:
Snoqualmie Falls is a natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The visitor center and gift shop have specific hours.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Snoqualmie Falls. Parking fees are usually paid on-site.
Yes, the upper viewing areas are accessible with ramps, making it a pleasant experience for elderly visitors.
While some reviews mention swimming in the river, it's generally not recommended due to strong currents and safety concerns. Stick to designated viewing areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Snoqualmie Falls offers three main viewpoints: the upper deck, the middle deck, and the lower deck accessible via a forest trail. Each provides a unique perspective.
Yes, there's a forest trail connecting the middle deck to the lower deck, allowing for a hike down to the riverbank.
Absolutely! It's a great spot for families, with easy access to viewing areas and the surrounding park.
The falls are historically significant, home to one of the first hydroelectric power plants in the region, which supplied electricity to Seattle.
Snoqualmie Falls is a photographer's dream, offering stunning shots year-round, especially with autumn colors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the historic Salish Lodge offers dining with views of the falls. There's also a gift shop with snacks.
Picnic areas are available, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view. Bring your own food or grab something from the gift shop.
Besides the Salish Lodge, the nearby town of Snoqualmie offers various dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
🎫 🏨 Accommodations
The iconic Salish Lodge & Spa is located directly overlooking the falls, offering a luxurious stay.
Besides the Salish Lodge, you can find various hotels and accommodations in the nearby towns of Snoqualmie and North Bend.
Yes, options like Airbnbs and cabins can be found in the surrounding areas for a more private stay.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families who enjoy a bit of adventure, the forest trail down to the river offers a chance for a short hike.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Consider visiting in autumn for the added beauty of fall foliage, which creates a vibrant contrast with the cascading water.
The forest trail offers unique angles and a chance to capture the mist and power of the falls up close. 🚗 Day-Trippers from Seattle
+1 It's the perfect escape to experience Washington's natural beauty without a long journey. You can easily spend a few hours here, taking in the views, exploring the trails, and enjoying the fresh air. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby town of Snoqualmie for lunch or explore other attractions in the Snoqualmie Valley.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power and Majesty of Snoqualmie Falls
Beyond its natural beauty, Snoqualmie Falls holds historical significance. It was the site of one of the first hydroelectric power plants in the region, established by engineer Charles Baker. This plant, utilizing the force of the water, provided electricity to Seattle and continues to generate power for the Puget Sound area today. This blend of natural wonder and industrial history adds a unique layer to the visitor experience.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, a forest trail connects the middle viewing deck to the lower deck, allowing visitors to hike through the woods and reach the riverbank. This path offers a different perspective and a chance to feel the mist and power of the falls up close.
Experiencing Snoqualmie Falls: Views and Trails
For the more adventurous, a well-maintained trail leads from the middle deck down to the river. This hike, approximately 1.5 miles roundtrip, allows you to get closer to the base of the falls and experience its raw power.
Beyond the immediate falls area, the surrounding park offers opportunities for relaxation and photography. The Salish Lodge, perched above the falls, provides an iconic backdrop and is a popular spot for photos, especially for fans of the TV show Twin Peaks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit