Seattle, the Emerald City, is not only known for its picturesque skyline and lush green scenery but also boasts an array of stunning waterfalls nearby. These cascading beauties are the perfect escape for nature lovers, hikers, or anyone seeking a tranquil getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. With many of these waterfalls easily accessible within a short drive from Seattle, they serve as an excellent opportunity for both a leisurely day trip or an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
One of the most iconic waterfalls near Seattle is the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls, with its powerful 268-foot drop that attracts millions of visitors every year. Similarly, Wallace Falls offers a humbling experience tucked within the small town of Gold Bar, approximately an hour’s drive from the city center. Another hidden gem is Cherry Creek Falls, a picturesque beauty nestled near the town of Duvall, which can be reached via a scenic hike that features fascinating sights such as a yellow car stuck in a tree.
Whether it’s witnessing the majestic power of Snoqualmie Falls or trekking through the forests to discover the lesser-known beauties like Cherry Creek Falls, there’s a waterfall near Seattle for every type of adventurer. These natural wonders provide both the serenity and excitement that showcase the Pacific Northwest’s unrivaled charm and make the region a must-visit destination for waterfall enthusiasts.
Top Waterfalls Near Seattle
Seattle, Washington, is known for its abundance of natural beauty, and its nearby waterfalls are a prime example. This is a guide to five of the most mesmerizing waterfalls near Seattle: Snoqualmie Falls, Wallace Falls, Twin Falls, Teneriffe Falls, and Franklin Falls. Exploring these gems of the Pacific Northwest is an absolute must for outdoor enthusiasts.
Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Washington. Located just 30 miles east of Seattle, its 270-foot plunge is a breathtaking sight. The fall offers an easy 1.5-mile round trip hike that includes an observation deck and a lower boardwalk. The Snoqualmie River powers the adjacent hydroelectric plant, illustrating the balance between natural beauty and sustainable energy use.
Wallace Falls
Wallace Falls State Park, located approximately 45 miles northeast of Seattle, offers an invigorating 5.5-mile round trip hike that leads to multiple waterfall viewpoints. Wallace Falls is a series of breathtaking cascades, with the tallest being around 265 feet. The park has several hiking trails catering to different skill levels, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Twin Falls
Twin Falls is a short, 40-minute drive from Seattle and promises a moderate 2.5-mile hike. With an elevation gain of 640 feet, the trail features the cascading waters of the South Fork Snoqualmie River. In addition to the falls, the hike offers lush forest trails and picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Teneriffe Falls
Teneriffe Falls, also known as Kamikaze Falls, offers a more challenging option for experienced hikers. Located near North Bend, this 5.4-mile round trip hike boasts a stunning 1,580 feet elevation gain. Teneriffe Falls plunges 259 feet in a stunning fan-shaped display. The trail is well-maintained, but it may require some scrambling in certain sections.
Franklin Falls
Situated just an hour’s drive east of Seattle, Franklin Falls is a perfect day trip for families with young children. This 2-mile round trip hike boasts an elevation gain of only 400 feet and leads through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The destination is a breathtaking 70-foot waterfall, framed by mossy rocks and lush greenery. While the trail is shorter than others, it still offers a glimpse into the diverse flora and fauna of Washington’s wilderness.
By exploring these magnificent waterfalls near Seattle, adventurers can experience the diverse natural beauty of Washington. From the easily accessible Snoqualmie Falls to the more challenging Teneriffe Falls, there is a waterfall adventure suitable for every hiker.
Hiking Trails and Experiences
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park offers numerous hiking trails for hikers of all skill levels. One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Skyline Trail, which starts from Paradise, the park’s well-known visitor center. This area is famous for its stunning wildflower meadows, where hikers can enjoy the vibrant colors of various flowers while taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.
Skyline Trail
The Skyline Trail is a moderate 5.5-mile loop, with an elevation gain of about 1,700 feet. The trail is well-maintained and is accessible from late spring to early fall. As hikers advance through the trail, they will come across several picturesque vistas, including glaciers, lush meadows, and panoramas of Mount Rainier. Hikers should be prepared for potentially changing weather conditions, as the trail takes you through various altitudes.
Key Points:
- Length: 5.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
- Season: Late spring to early fall
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems and offers many hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Some of the most popular waterfall hikes near Seattle are located within this park. Wallace Falls State Park, for instance, is a great destination for a day hike, featuring multiple cascading waterfalls and lush forests.
Wallace Falls State Park
Wallace Falls State Park is a well-loved hiking spot near Seattle, offering a variety of trails with varying levels of difficulty. The main trail is the 5.6-mile Wallace Falls Trail, which leads to the main attraction – a series of majestic waterfalls cascading over rocky cliffs. The park’s trail system caters to hikers of all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging routes.
Key Points:
- Length: 5.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
- Season: Year-round, but best from March to November
Family-Friendly Waterfalls
Coal Creek Falls
Coal Creek Falls is a fantastic option for a family-friendly waterfall hike near Seattle. This kid-and-dog-friendly trail leads to a 28-foot cascade over a mossy cliff, surrounded by lush vegetation, trees, ferns, and flowers. It is located just 20 minutes outside the city in Cougar Mountain Regional Park.
The hike to the falls is a short 2-mile round trip, making it an excellent option for families with children.
Cherry Creek Falls
Cherry Creek Falls is another great choice for families looking for an easy waterfall hike in the Seattle area. Found in the Cherry Creek Valley, the trail to the waterfall is 5 miles round trip and showcases beautiful wildflowers and vegetation along the way. The falls themselves feature a 25-foot drop, making it an impressive sight for all ages.
The trail is well-maintained, and the moderate elevation gain makes it suitable for families with children.
Deception Falls
Deception Falls is a popular and easily accessible waterfall near Seattle that offers a fun and picturesque outing for families. This short, 0.5-mile loop trail is perfect for young children, as it includes interpretive signs and gentle elevation gains. The falls themselves are stunning, with roaring water cascading down moss-covered rocks.
In summary, Coal Creek Falls, Cherry Creek Falls, and Deception Falls are all family-friendly waterfall hikes near Seattle that offer beautiful sights and manageable trails for children. So, pack a picnic and head out to explore these refreshing and impressive natural wonders with your family.
Photogenic Waterfalls
Christine Falls
Christine Falls is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for photographers seeking captivating images of the PNW. Conveniently located along the road in Mount Rainier National Park, the falls provide a stunning backdrop without requiring a strenuous hike.
The 69-foot waterfall gracefully cascades beneath an arched bridge, creating an enchanting scene perfect for photos.
Comet Falls
One of the most impressive waterfalls in the Mount Rainier area, Comet Falls is the epitome of natural beauty. The waterfall plunges over 300 feet into a glacier-carved canyon, providing an awe-inspiring sight for photographers. The hike to Comet Falls is moderately challenging, with a 3.6-mile round-trip journey and an elevation gain of 1,300 feet.
However, the reward is a breathtaking view of the waterfall, making it well worth the effort for dedicated photographers and nature enthusiasts.
- Distance from Seattle: 108 miles
- Driving Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
- Hike Length: 3.6 miles round trip
Myrtle Falls
For photographers seeking to capture the essence of the PNW’s mountainous beauty, Myrtle Falls is an ideal destination. Situated in Mount Rainier National Park, the waterfall offers panoramic views of the mountain range as a mesmerizing backdrop. Myrtle Falls is easily accessible through a short, paved 0.4-mile round-trip trail, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The 72-foot waterfall cascades gracefully amid verdant surroundings, providing an excellent opportunity to capture stunning images.
In this section, three photogenic waterfalls have been highlighted: Christine Falls, Comet Falls, and Myrtle Falls. Each location offers unique and enchanting views, making them prime destinations for photographers and nature lovers. Whether visiting for a quick snapshot or an immersive photographic experience, these waterfalls showcase the unparalleled beauty of the PNW.
Essentials for Your Hike
When planning a waterfall hike near Seattle, it’s important to be prepared for the ever-changing weather and terrain. Here are some essentials to consider packing for a safe and enjoyable adventure:
- Hat: A hat will protect your face from the sun and help keep you cool on warmer days. It can also shield your head and ears from the rain in case of unexpected showers.
- Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin before setting out on your hike.
- Rain Jacket: With Seattle’s unpredictable weather, it’s crucial to pack a waterproof, breathable rain jacket. This will keep you dry and comfortable in case of sudden rainfall.
- Backpack: A sturdy and comfortable backpack is crucial for carrying all your essentials, including water, snacks, and extra layers. Aim for a pack that distributes weight evenly across your shoulders and sits securely on your hips.
- Discover Pass: Some parks and trails near Seattle may require a Discover Pass for access. This pass is used to help maintain and support the state’s wilderness areas. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass, depending on the frequency of your hiking adventures.
In addition to the above-listed essentials, it’s critical to wear appropriate footwear with good traction, like hiking boots or trail runners. Don’t forget to pack at least 1 liter of water per person, trail maps, and a fully charged mobile phone in case you need to get in touch with emergency services or navigate unfamiliar terrain.
Further Afield
Whatcom Falls
Whatcom Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Bellingham, just under 90 miles north of Seattle. Nestled within Whatcom Falls Park, this 48-feet cascading waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The park offers well-maintained trails for easy access to the falls, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds. A popular spot for both locals and tourists, Whatcom Falls can be enjoyed as a day trip from Seattle.
Palouse Falls
Situated in Palouse Falls State Park, about 270 miles east of Seattle, Palouse Falls is a stunning 198-feet waterfall. Accessible via a moderate 1.2-mile round-trip hike, this waterfall is a testament to the power of the Ice Age floods.
The state park offers various viewing points for the falls, as well as picnic areas and camping facilities. While the drive to Palouse Falls may be long, it makes for an adventurous and worthwhile day trip.
| Drive Time from Seattle | Hiking Distance | Waterfall Height |
|---|---|---|
| Approximately 4.5 hours | 1.2 miles (RT) | 198 feet |
Marymere Falls
Located on the Olympic Peninsula, around 100 miles west of Seattle, Marymere Falls is a beautiful 90-feet waterfall nestled within the Olympic National Park. The scenic 1.8-mile round-trip hike takes you through moss-laden forests and over a bridge, providing a serene atmosphere as you approach the falls. Besides the waterfall, the Olympic National Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages, making it an ideal day trip destination from Seattle.
- Distance from Seattle: 100 miles
- Hiking Length: 1.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
With these three incredible waterfalls further afield from Seattle, you will find diverse landscapes and breathtaking views that make each day trip worthwhile.
