Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls is a thundering 268-foot curtain of water on the Snoqualmie River, the most visited waterfall in Washington and an icon recognized worldwide from the opening credits of Twin Peaks. The falls are sacred to the Snoqualmie Tribe, who have lived in their presence for thousands of years. At peak flow after heavy rains or spring snowmelt, the entire 100-foot-wide river launches over the brink in a deafening roar, sending plumes of mist hundreds of feet into the air.

The upper observation deck at the historic Salish Lodge offers a bird's-eye view directly into the falls from just feet away — one of the most dramatic viewpoints of any waterfall in the country. A 0.7-mile interpretive trail descends 250 feet through forest to a lower boardwalk platform at the base, where the mist coats everything and the power of the falls is visceral. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the geology, ecology, and cultural significance of the site.

Located just 29 miles east of Seattle off Interstate 90, Snoqualmie Falls is the easiest major waterfall to visit in the state. The upper viewpoint is free and accessible year-round including at night when the falls are illuminated. The lower trail can be muddy in winter. For the best flow, visit November through May.