Snoqualmie Falls

The basics

A popular day-trip destination east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls are easy to visit along with stops at Seattle-area wineries or other nearby nature spots. It's also possible to combine a Seattle city sightseeing tour with a stop at Snoqualmie Falls on a half-day tour.

Once there, the upper falls overlooks offer easily accessible views of the falls, as well as picnic tables and benches. To see the waterfall from the bottom, descend a steep, 0.7-mile (1.1-kilometer) trail through a temperate rain forest, with interpretive signage describing local flora and fauna and detailing the falls' historic and cultural contributions.

Things to know before you go

• Visiting the falls is free, whether you stop by just for the photo op or clamber down to the base.

• Hikers should be prepared with warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as the Snoqualmie Falls trail is often wet.

• A visit to Snoqualmie is perfect for families and groups with a range of interests and ability levels, with some wheelchair-accessible spots.

• Visit during spring to see the falls at their crashing best.

• The park area features a visitor center, gift shop, coffee stand, and bathrooms.

How to get there

From Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls sits about a 30-minute drive east just outside the town of Snoqualmie in the Pacific Northwest. To get there, take I-90 east to exit 27. The photo-worthy waterfall is easily accessible from the site's two parking lots, one of which is paid and the other free.

When to get there

Snoqualmie Falls draws some 1.5 million visitors a year, with most visiting on summer weekends. To avoid the crowds, opt for a rainy day or a weekday. The park is open from dawn to dusk daily. The waterfall flows year-round, hitting its peak during the late spring and early summer snowmelt.

Other attractions in Snoqualmie

Nearby Salish Lodge's award-winning spa and hotel offer stunning views with some room balconies overlooking the waterfall, in addition to fine dining opportunities. Snoqualmie's Northwest Railway Museum is another nearby hot spot—it's the perfect diversion for railroad fans and is housed in a restored 1890 railroad depot.

What is the best time of year to visit Snoqualmie Falls?

You can visit Snoqualmie Falls year-round. The waterfall is most impressive in the spring when melting mountain snows turn the river into a torrent. By early to mid-October, bright autumn foliage adds a colorful backdrop to the 270-foot (82-meter) falls—though rain is more likely when visiting this time of year.

Should I book Snoqualmie Falls tours in advance?

It's a good idea to book Snoqualmie Falls tickets for a tour in advance. The most popular outings do sometimes sell out. Some tours also include activities such as Seattle sightseeing, hiking excursions, and vineyard wine tastings with a tour guide, so early booking is the best way to secure a spot on your tour of choice.

How long does it take to see Snoqualmie Falls?

Most visitors spend at least 30 minutes at Snoqualmie Falls. The Upper Observation Deck has excellent views of the towering falls and is a short walk from the parking lot. You'll need more time to walk the .3-mile (.5-kilometer) boardwalk to the Lower Observation Deck, which passes through an old-growth forest.

Can you see Snoqualmie Falls without hiking?

Yes, you can see Snoqualmie Falls without hiking. The best way to see the falls without hiking is by visiting the Upper Observation Deck, which has excellent views of the waterfall. That viewing platform is 200 feet (61 meters) from the parking lot on a paved trail that's wheelchair accessible.

How hard is the hike to Snoqualmie Falls?

There are two ways to reach Snoqualmie Falls. The paved, 200-foot (61-meter) wheel-chair accessible path to the Upper Observation Deck is the easiest option. A slightly longer walk follows a .3-mile (.5-kilometer) boardwalk to the Lower Observation Deck. The boardwalk is primarily flat, family-friendly, and passes through the scenic riverside forest.

What do you wear to Snoqualmie Falls?

Wear comfortable walking shoes on your trip to Snoqualmie Falls, and pack an extra layer or two in case it's cool in the woods. Bringing a raincoat or poncho is also a good idea, as the waterfall's mighty spray can sometimes reach the observation decks.

Ways to explore

It's free to visit and park at the falls. You'll take a winding path that follows the river to the base of the falls and feel mist on your face as you walk. The air smells of moss and loam, and the green river moves quickly. Snoqualmie Falls is often included on guided tours of the area’s towns, wineries, and mountains. While there are longer hiking trails in the region, the walk to the falls is short (about 1.4 miles or 2.25 kilometers). The trail to the lower viewing platform is steep, and the return can be challenging.

Accessibility

The upper observation deck is accessible to people using wheelchairs and is near the parking lots.

Age limits

Younger children might find the hike back up challenging.

What to pack

Snacks, water, credit card, raincoat

What to wear

Good hiking shoes, comfortable clothing for the outdoors

Not allowed

Barbecues, littering, off-leash dogs

Amenities

Bathrooms, parking lots, picnic tables, gift shop

Address

About 40 minutes from Seattle by car, Snoqualmie Falls is an ideal day trip. Driving or going with a guided tour is preferred to public transit.

Driving

From Seattle, take I-5 South/I-90 East and merge onto I-90 East. Exit onto WA-18 West toward Snoqualmie Parkway, then turn left onto WA-18 East. Continue onto Snoqualmie Parkway and turn left onto Railroad Avenue.

Public transportation

It's a 2-hour trip via public transit from Seattle—catch the 554 bus towards Issaquah from Second Avenue and Cherry Street; transfer at Issaquah Transit Center to the 208 bus towards North Bend Snoqualmie Ridge. Disembark at Railroad Avenue SE and Snoqualmie Parkway; walk north on WA-202 E for about 10 minutes; turn left after crossing the bridge.

Best times to visit

The parking lot and the trail fill up quickly, so arrive at the start or end of the day. The viewing area is open from dawn till dusk.

Best days to visit

Avoid weekends, as it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Best months to visit

The start of June, when it's warmish, but the water is still high, is ideal. Otherwise, visit in September or early October to see the leaves change colors.

Special events

The nearby town of Snoqualmie is lively. In July, Thursday evenings bring live music and outdoor movie screenings to Jeanne Hansen Park—a perfect way to relax after an afternoon hike.