Snoqualmie Falls

Just a short drive of 30 to 40 minutes away from Seattle, this is one of the things to see when you're in Washington. We heard about this place from our concierge at the hotel We stayed at in Seattle. This is a free place to see one of the iconic waterfalls in Washington. There are different points of view to see the falls. There is also a visitor center with a coffee shop and gift shop. If you decide to go to the lower viewing areas as we prepared to hike. Unfortunately, my family and I didn't go because we had our father who was on a mobility scooter. The great thing about this place is that there are signs for ADA and plenty of parking.

08-31-2025 Don't miss out if you are visiting Seattle. It's a must. The most amazing waterfall I have seen! Plenty of free parking, easy path to enjoy the beautiful views, and no entry fee. The route to get to the location is lushes green, full of stunning trees and more when you get there. Enjoy!!!

My friend and I made a quick stop at Snoqualmie Falls on our drive from Leavenworth to Renton and then onward to Seattle and it was the perfect break in the trip. I love a good waterfall and this one exceeded expectations. While we didn't have time for a hike (there are a couple of scenic trails in the area), we did use the clean restrooms, browsed the super cute gift shop which also has a cafe and then took the short, well-maintained walking path to the viewing area. The waterfall is truly breathtaking, with a powerful, misty cascade surrounded by lush greenery. I very much appreciated the informative placards and displays both in the visitor center/gift shop as well as along the path which highlighted the history of the falls and their importance to the region, including the connection to the local Snoqualmie Tribe and the role of the falls in hydropower production. Even with our quick visit, we left feeling refreshed, and with some beautiful photos! If you're anywhere nearby, I would definitely recommend stopping here - whether for a longer hike or just a quick leg stretch like we did. Pro tip: The upper parking lot is free while the lower lot is paid parking :)

Lovely stop! Came on a weekday morning. Was not packed. I was able to grab photos with no crowd and had a peaceful hike to the lower viewingpoint. Trail is fairly easy. It can be quite steep, but the trail is wide and views into the forest are pretty.

+ Majestic, pristine waterfall. An invigorating sight to behold. + They have public restrooms. + A pleasant forest hike toward the lower observation deck with some scrap dam/turbine pieces laid aside for you to look at. Tip: Free & plentiful parking across the street. Why pay? - The observation decks are very crowded on a Saturday evening.

Yes! Yes! Yes! I highly, highly recommend this gem of an experience and natural landmark! I'm so grateful I got to experience this with my daughters! While visiting Washington we had a free day so we decided to have a girl's day! There is a viewing point for the waterfall on the same level as the main parking lot. However, there is a trail that leads down to the lower part of the waterfall that is absolutely worth the trek! I tracked it carrying my baby so it's not a strenuous hike, the views are soooo worth it! I love this place so much and I look forward to visiting again. It recharged my soul and we created some core memories.

really stunning waterfall and surrounding foliage that made it such an easy sight in the eyes. the calm yet powerful sounds of the rushing water was something that I had to take my airpods out for to appreciate the serenity. could see people hike in the side when you look down at the bottom of the waterfall -- something that I was not aware had existed. came here as a pit stop after the Beyond Wonderland rave festival, so had we spent more time here, I would have definitely made the trek to see where the water ends. very cool breeze that was not overpowering to the point where you could not capture a nice photo. so many people and I wish that there was a restaurant nearby that had bakery sweets, warm cozy drinks, and a rest spot where you can sit by the firepit. nonetheless, such a beauty of a location and shocked at the abundance of parking spots

It was a busy Memorial Day weekend so we ended up parking at the overflow parking lot down the street. It was only an easy 10 minute walk to the falls. This is a beautiful falls that you can easily access and it's free! There are two viewing platforms at the top. We didn't have time to walk down to the bottom but I would like to come back and do that another day. The trail is paved and clean.

Who likes waterfalls? I do!! We visited Snoqualmie Falls because it was only about 30 minutes away from where we were staying in Seattle. It was a wonderful side trip because we got to see a lovely waterfall. Parking was not an issue when we were there. It was a short walk to the upper observation area. You can also see another view of the waterfall from a lower observation deck. Snoqualmie Falls is a pretty sight to behold from whichever observation area you choose. I believe that there was a trail that leads to the base of the falls, but we did not have the time to walk there. We did stop by the gift shop, though. Never tire of seeing water falls. In my book, Snoqualmie Falls is deserving of 5 stars. It truly is a awesome falls to see in person.

It's not just the falls that are stunning, this whole area is a lush garden with photo opts everywhere. It wasn't too crowded and we could easily take lots of pictures at the waterfall. There are stairs that take you through paths of lush trees that you feel like you're in a secret garden. There are also some decent bathrooms. And all this beauty is free!

Love this place! The easy trail was steep and sandy but still with amazing views. People were polite but parking was scarce and the machines to pay, only one was working. But it's so pretty! Dog friendly and free to get in. Clean and well maintained. Furry friends are allowed as long as they're on leash. Love it!!!

Amazing in all seasons. There's a free parking lot across the street (so you have to go over a covered footbridge to get to the park) versus a pay-to-park lot that is next to the gift shop and visitor center and very close to the falls and the viewing platforms. There's also a lower falls parking lot that gives you a view of the falls at its base, as well as a view of the hydroelectric dam. The upper main lot and lower falls lot is connected by a gravel trail which isn't too strenuous, although the upper main lot has a lot more amenities. The bottom lot has bathrooms, and a small informational area that was closed when I visited. The trail itself is very well maintained, and there are informational signs to read next to the trails if you want to learn more about the history and woodland management of the area.

A must go to when in Washington. Been here 4 times and will never get tired of visiting and hiking the short trail of this park. There are several viewing decks for the falls. We came here early this January and not a lot of crowds probably because it was showering and extra cold. Never miss an opportunity to visit Snoqualmie Falls when in the Washington state.

Parking: Free parking across the street from the main parking lot. Use the pedestrian bridge to walk across. Or Park in the main lot and pay $7 plus fees for the first 2 hours. $5 each additional hour. Views: From the main lot, short easy walk to the overlook. You see the top of the falls. Next, you can continue on the trail that leads you through the Forrest to the bottom of the falls. This pathway is a bit steep and not recommended for seniors or strollers. It goes down hill first then uphill on the way up. Or From the top overlook at the main lot, get back in your car to drive down to the lower lot. Short walk to the bottom of the falls without going through the Forrest. Restrooms: Clean building in main lot next to gift shop. Or lower lot has Porto potty. We did 2 out of the 3 views. Upper and lower, avoided the river view. We paid for parking so we ended up hiking the trail through the forest and hydroelectric turbines. Since we paid for parking, we stretched our time out with photos and stopping, we finished in 1.5 hours. The falls are beautiful. It gets misty at the view points. The trail is on gravel. It was 40 degree weather but I took off my jacket on the ascent. As far as shoes, we saw a guy hiking in Japanese clogs. Very spiritual place, admire all the life in this Forrest. If you have time, hike. Otherwise park at upper and lower lot.

If you're a fan of Twin Peaks you'll love this and if you're a fan of beautiful nature spots you'll love it even more! Gorgeous waterfall with easy to access lookouts. There is even a little visitor center too.

I love these Falls and have been a visitor since I was a child. Now, I take out of town guests here or come when I need to reconnect with nature and want to do a low-challenge hike. The trail is accessible by 2 parking lots; one at the top of the falls, and one midway down. I typically park up top and do the full walk down and back, ending the visit at the gift shop or the Salish lodge for a drink and a snack (the gift shop has a dog friendly seating area). Unfortunately, parking is no longer free, but you can get valet parking if you have reservations at the lodge. I appreciate that there are multiple rest benches along the way, and you can go all the way down to the water, or choose to hang out at the observation area up top. It continues to be one of my favorite destinations around Seattle.

All I can say is wow, this should be on everyone's must see. It was such a stunning waterfall and with an upper & lower deck, you will get beautiful pictures captured! Parking is free across the street but if you park closer I believe you have to pay a fee!

Beautiful waterfall with paid parking lot on the side of the falls. There is a larger parking lot across the street that is free. In that lot, there's plenty of space for RVs or larger vehicles. There's also restrooms with flushable toilets and a trail down to the lower deck to view the falls.

A must see when visiting Washington State! This waterfall is actually taller than Niagara Falls! It's around 40 minutes away from Seattle and is worth the stop! We were driving from Seattle to Cle Elum and this was one of the stops we made along the way. We parked in the free parking lot which was a short walk to the Salish Lodge and the lookout point. We took a quick bathroom break. There are clean and well maintained bathrooms throughout. The falls were amazing however, it is very crowded. You will have to wait a little while for your turn to take a picture near the railing. There is a hike down and I must say, after doing it, it isn't as easy as I've seen on YouTube videos/reviews. It's pretty steep and the path is covered in gravel. It took us about an hour to go down and back. Overall, the lookout at the top is the best view! The view at the bottom does get you closer to the end of the falls but, farther away than the top view. Although this was a cool experience, it's a one & done kind of thing, at least for me.

Snoqualmie Falls is a breathtaking 268 foot waterfall located in the town of Snoqualmie, Washington. It's 28 miles east of Seattle. Not only is Snoqualmie Falls stunning, but it takes minimal effort visiting to be well rewarded. The Upper Viewing Platform sits right next to the parking lot, within a few steps. That's how easy it is. There are actually two Upper Section Overlook Decks to enjoy the sceneries. But, both perspectives are similar to each other. The primary viewpoint at the Upper deck has good spacing for a lot of visitors to get their pictures in. Once you're finished here, then walk down a staircase and a ramp to the other Upper Lookout Point which may not be as dramatic because it's situated just a little further away from the falls. Next...it's time to take The Trail pathway 1.4 miles roundtrip down to the Lower Observation Boardwalk. It's a casual walk through the heart of the forest which definitely gives off a Pacific Northwest rain forest type of setting. The surroundings are lush and green. The path down has some decline to it but nothing strenuous whatsoever. You'll pass beside an electrical powerplant and onto a boardwalk leading to the Lower Viewpoint. I'd say the Lower Lookout is just average, especially compared to catching the majestic views of Snoqualmie Falls from high above. Reason why is...the pathway down to the base leads you further away from the waterfall. By the time you arrive at the bottom, you're seeing Snoqualmie Falls a bit far in the background. I was watching people take pictures down here and they weren't so memorable. But...if you zoom in with your phone, you can catch up close glances of the falls, which made the appearance better than seeing it with your actual eyes. Overall, the Lower Lookout can be skipped if you're content with the surroundings back at the Upper Overlook. Extra Notes... - Entrance is free. Parking is free too, across the street from the falls. But...if you'd like a spot right in front of the entrance, you can pay a $7 fee for up to two hours. Even those parking spots filled up fast. With parking across the street, you conveniently walk across a footbridge to not disturb traffic and it leads directly to the waterfall. - Snoqualmie Falls can get real crowded, real fast. For those who may feel uncomfortable around large crowds, it can get overwhelming. I happened to visit on a rainy Tuesday morning near the end of August and it was relatively quiet compared to what it must be like stopping by on a weekend or during sunny weather. Btw...the platform boardwalk at the Lower Section is small so actually, it got congested with people to the point it was hard to even move around. The Upper Lookout has more room to accommodate folks. - Park hours are from dusk till dawn. There's a Visitor Center and Gift Shop located next to the falls. Hours are mostly 9am - 6pm, 7pm throughout the year. Included inside is a cafe selling coffee, ice cream and pastries with tables and chairs to take a break from the waterfall bliss. - There's a charming hotel located beside Snoqualmie Falls. It's called the Salish Lodge if you'd like to spend time overnight. - There's an entrance sign that says..."Snoqualmie Falls Park". A lot of people passed it by but I found it to be a photogenic moment. - Lastly, Snoqualmie Falls is (according to what I researched) one of the most popular waterfalls in the state of Washington. It's so accessible and great for a family outing but for outdoor and hiking enthusiasts, this place is probably way too touristy. I had never been here, so it was wonderful getting to experience the incredible 268 foot drop, but I wouldn't return in the future. It's too hectic for my mellow persona. But, thank you for having me and the state of Washington never ceases to amaze with outstanding sights among the great outdoors.

Such a cool spot to visit in Seattle! There was plenty of parking at a nearby lot, we just had to cross a bridge to see the highest point of the waterfall. We then walked down the trails to get different vantage points, and eventually made it all the way down. It can be a little steep, so watch your footing especially if it's wet, but overall it's not too bad. Such an amazing sight to see!

Worth a stop especially if you are a Twin peaks fan. We parked on "top" across hotel and crossed the bridge so top of falls next to hotel. We went to mid level which there is also parking and hiked all the way down to the river area - good and short hike with little kids (saw lots of them). The trails are shaded for the most part.

Great Views and Great Hike! Came early in the morning around 10ish. It's March so it's a but chilly! But once you start walking you'll warm up!

I came here to do a short hike with some friends and was not disappointed! The hike itself was pretty short, but a little steep on the way back. It was good for all ages though. We were able to see the waterfall and it was so pretty. The water was super clear and the river had a whole bunch of people floating, swimming, and kayaking in it. We found a spot to sit and dipped our feet in the water. I would definitely come back. I would say it's more "urban" nature as there were lots of people around.

A friend took me and even after dark with a light sprinkle we were able to get up close to the falls. Just make sure to bring a flashlight. There seemed to be plenty of parking and the trails were well maintained. Without much walking at all there's a great view from the top. With just a little more walking downwards you can get a lot closer though which I would recommend if you have the time and proper walking shoes.

If you're visiting the area or just need a quick escape into nature, Snoqualmie Falls is a must. We drove in on the 4th of July, so it was busy, but still totally worth it. There's both free and paid parking and if you're up for a short walk, the free lot gives you bridge access with cool views of Salish Lodge. The main viewpoint is close and well-maintained, offering a great photo op. There's a trail that goes down to the bottom, but we passed on it this time since we had young kids and a large group. Facilities include restrooms and a small gift shop, which makes it feel more like a proper attraction than just a stop-and-go. One of those classic Washington sights that never gets old. JY review

Upper observation deck is easy trail to view the falls, if you go further to the end of trail you'll find rainbow when the sunset comes. Instead of walking down to the bottom of the falls, you can detour and drive to the lower deck to view the bottom part of the falls.

I came here on a hot summer day with sunshine and clear blue skies. I don't ever hike but this was worth the sweat to see the beautiful waterfall! Parking: There is parking at the top level and the bottom level. My friends and I parked at the top level. There is an area that had free parking but I know they also had areas that charge money. Restrooms: There are restrooms at the top and bottom level. Difficulty level: I don't hike so I can't really compare to other trails but I would have to say that there are some steep trails going down. I definitely was not wearing the right shoes so I had to be careful not to slide down the gravel. When you reach the bottom level to see the waterfall, you don't actually get to be super close to the waterfall. Unfortunately, it's a small area where everyone crowds around to take pictures. There is a trail that goes down to the river, where you won't see the waterfall, but that area is really nice as well. You'd have to get on the rocks to get to the river. I was nervous to do this hike but it wasn't bad at all. It's a short hike with nice sceneries!

Enchanting ! It's a must see if you are visiting or love science. The walk is steep down but worth the walk up, you can take it as slow as would want back up there are lots resting stops.

- lovely and convenient to see a waterfall close by- I haven't been here for years, but I remember it was annoying to find a parking spot. Luckily the parking lot is huge, but it could still be bad on a busy weekend. We waited 10 minutes for people to leave on a busy Sunday. The waterfall is right there in front of your eyes after you cross the bridge from the parking lot. You can walk on the trail to go down to see the falls more closely, but you gotta walk uphills to get back to the parking lot. We didn't do it this time as it started pouring. We were here about 3 pm on Sunday, and it's still packed with families. It's extremely busy on the weekend in summer I guess.

This fall is easy to get to from Seattle and I'd say it's worth the visit. It's beautiful and you can feel the mist while enjoying the view. There are stairs you must walk but it is a very small amount. There's a pathway you can walk instead of the stairs if you prefer. Make sure you check out all the different viewpoints! I know there are at least 3. Enjoy!

Quite busy and difficult to find parking, it was a weekend. For my mom she was able to walk down but not back up. Luckily I was able to walk back up from the bottom of the falls to the car and drive down to the parking lot to get her.

Snoqualmie Falls is a mesmerizing natural gem that seamlessly blends accessibility and awe-inspiring beauty. The falls, surrounded by lush greenery, create a tranquil yet powerful spectacle. Visitors can revel in the experience without the need to hike, thanks to the upper and lower overlooks that offer convenient viewpoints. For those interested in exploration, the presence of free parking and nearby hiking trails adds an extra layer of adventure. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or seeking a leisurely escape, Snoqualmie Falls caters to a diverse range of preferences. Adjacent to the falls, the Salish Lodge and Spa stand as a luxurious retreat, providing an opportunity to extend your stay and indulge in relaxation. The combination of practical amenities, accessible viewpoints, and the option for a lavish retreat makes Snoqualmie Falls an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking for a well-rounded and enjoyable getaway. The photos are from January 2024. The park entrance is free as well.

Great views. Even if the sun is not shining, the view is great. Expect to get wet from the mist coming from the falls. We had a great time as we traveled through the area. Water falls can be fun.

Snoqualmie Falls is beautiful, just a short and scenic drive from Seattle, is always a popular destination. While the area tends to stay busy, it's still worth a visit. There are three parking lots from the top of the falls. You can easily walk to a viewing area from the top of the falls, or drive down the road for a view from the bottom. However, the walkway doesn't get you very close, so you're left seeing the falls from a distance, which was a bit underwhelming. Despite that, it's still a beautiful spot and a convenient day trip from the city.

How well hidden secret approximately 30 minutes outside of Seattle. Fun tourist spot. The Falls themselves are stunning and you can hike all the way from the top down to the bottom for mystical experience. Parking can be very congested especially during the summer months. There is a gift shop and a small Eatery at the top of the falls. In addition to an Exquisite Lodge. Definitely worth the stay at least once.

love it also if you want to get exercise than go on that trail next to the construction thingy it takes 7373837837472873 years

This waterfall is a must-chase! It's a fall that everybody can easily check out and barely have to hike to. The very young, the old and the lazy can easily take in the awesome views of the water at the upper observation deck. And for the ones who don't mind the trek down can get a slightly more private view of the falls from the lower deck. If you're making the drive that's out of the way and dropping money on parking I recommend spending as much time here by doing the hike and taking in the views. Entry is free by the way! My friends and I spent about 2 hours here on a cold and damp Saturday morning in December. Parking was easy to find, however, the spaces are a bit narrow. We hung out on the top/mid deck for about 20-25 minutes before making our way down to view the falls from below. The hike was about a 1.5 miles round trip, which wasn't too bad, a bit steep in some areas. I had no issues hiking in my chelsea boots. Just as long as your shoes have some sort of traction you should be fine. Thankfully, it wasn't too muddy at the time. The tail end of the hike has a wooden walkway/footbridge and near there, there's restrooms and parking (which we didn't know about). The falls were amayzazaing from both views! Luckily, we didn't encounter too many groups and had time to get in photos without anybody photobombing. As we were leaving to hike back up, there was a large group heading to the lower deck. So get there early if you want to avoid people. Once we made it back to the parking area we stopped by the visitor center where they have a small gift shop, cafe and restroom area. There's also a screening area where you can learn about the history of Snoqualmie Falls and what the falls meant to the Snoqualmie people. Overall, it was worth the drive from Renton. Beautiful views and a very healthy waterfall. It's a great scenic place to check out and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Nice little hike cool little pit stop for the family on a weekend trip.downhill is easy uphill gets tricky

On a nice bright morning this breath taking trail is perfect for a stroll. Walking down to the river and the bottom of the falls is worth the view. Walking back up is at an incline. It can get pretty busy on one of Seattles good weather day. Plenty of parking. Accessible restrooms. Outdoor tables for a nice lunch. Kid and Fur friendly

Perfect hike! Beautiful and good for all ages. Big parking lot and restaurant there. Easy to get to and worth the time.

Beautiful waterfall and an amazing place for tourists! There is also a hike that goes from the top of Snoqualmie to the bottom of the falls. Definitely recommend!

Good place to see the power of nature with its massive water falls. So massive that water mists sometimes covered the whole site.

Beautiful 268 ft waterfall. Parked across the street for free and from there it was a very short walk to the overlook.

This is a must see if your are close to the Snoqualmie area and is an amazing sight. The falls have over fifty years of history. The falls has a lodge which has amazing restaurant and a hotel. I would recommend the falls if you are in the area.

Two reasons not five stars: 1) crowded beyond belief. Now, they do their best to deal with that. There are multiple lots for parking (nevertheless, packed to the gills) and they do bring out some folks to direct traffic, thank goodness. But trying to get a view, trying even to walk straight sometimes, because of the mass of humanity - and rightfully so, it's beautiful, a national treasure, a state treasure - it's challenging depending when you go. 2) please add some handrails to the steep trail down to the lower section. For sure, they do a good job identifying this trail as "steep" - yes, it is. It's nicely gravelled though and my concern is that any ole any one is going to give a try, and they do, so more railings would be nice for those who start down and realize they might need some support to not fall on their behinds. A fascinating beautiful spot. Also of note that the hotel is one of the spots that Twin Peaks was filmed.

Love the lower falls, a pretty steep hike if you start from the top and have to go back up, so be warned. We enjoyed the lower falls viewpoint, and access to the river to rockhop.

One of Washington's most impressive natural landmarks, Snoqualmie Falls is a must visit for any outdoorsman or woman. Easily accessible in less than an hour from Seattle, it boasts multiple viewing platforms, plenty of free parking, several nearby hiking trails, and proximity to the fantastic, swanky Salish Lodge and the quaint towns of Snoqualmie and North Bend, both of which are also worth a visit (especially for fans of Twin Peaks). Multiple ADA-accessible paths lead to the aforementioned platforms, the adjacent gift shop, and the Lodge. An absolute must-see for any waterfall enthusiast, nature-lover, and other oxygen-breathing humans.

What a wonderful scenic attraction outside of Seattle! It was easy to get to the deck to see the waterfall, and it doesn't take too long to take a look and take pictures. The biggest downside was paying for parking. It was convenient to park outside of the gift shop. It's basically $7 for 2 hours (you don't even need an hour if you're doing a quick stop) plus $1.62 taxes, for total of $8.62. There's also a restroom and seating at the entrance.