Looking for an adventure near Seattle? Check out our guide to the best in the area, including family-friendly trails, scenic routes, and . Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail for everyone.
Best Waterfall Hikes Near Seattle
Seattle is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and stunning natural attractions, including numerous waterfalls. Hiking to a waterfall is not only a great way to exercise, but it also allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Here are three of the best near Seattle:
Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Seattle area, and for good reason. Located just 30 minutes east of the city, this 268-foot waterfall is a breathtaking sight to behold. The hike to the falls is relatively easy, and there are several viewing platforms along the way that offer stunning views of the waterfall. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also take a trail down to the base of the falls for an even closer look.
Wallace Falls
Wallace Falls State Park, located about an hour northeast of Seattle, is home to a series of nine waterfalls that cascade down the Wallace River. The hike to the falls is a moderate 5.6-mile round trip, but the views along the way are well worth the effort. The trail takes you through lush forests, over rushing creeks, and past several viewpoints where you can see the falls in all their glory.
Franklin Falls
Franklin Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the Snoqualmie Pass area, just over an hour east of Seattle. The hike to the falls is a short and easy 2-mile round trip, making it perfect for families with young children or those who want a quick nature fix. The falls themselves are 70-feet tall and are surrounded by towering trees and mossy rocks, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
No matter which of these you choose, be sure to take the time to enjoy the beauty of nature around you. Bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views along the way.
- Hiking to a waterfall is a great way to connect with nature and get some exercise.
- Snoqualmie Falls is a popular and breathtaking waterfall just 30 minutes east of Seattle.
- Wallace Falls State Park is home to a series of nine waterfalls and a moderate 5.6-mile round trip hike.
- Franklin Falls is a hidden gem with a short and easy 2-mile round trip hike.
Most Scenic Waterfalls Near Seattle
If you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, then exploring the scenic waterfalls near Seattle should be on your bucket list. From the majestic Palouse Falls to the enchanting Bridal Veil Falls and the stunning Comet Falls, these waterfalls offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Palouse Falls
Palouse Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in the eastern part of Washington state, about three hours from Seattle. The waterfall is 198 feet high and is surrounded by stunning canyon walls, making it a photographer’s paradise. The waterfall is also a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.
One of the unique aspects of Palouse Falls is its geology. It’s formed by the Palouse River, which flows through the Columbia River Basalt Group, a series of lava flows that occurred over 16 million years ago. The waterfall is also part of a state park and offers amenities such as a campground, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Bridal Veil Falls
Located in the stunning Columbia River Gorge, Bridal Veil Falls is a picturesque waterfall that cascades over a cliff face, surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfall is about 45 minutes from Seattle and is accessible via a short hike through a forested trail.
Bridal Veil Falls is named after its appearance, which resembles a bride’s veil. The waterfall is a popular spot for photography, hiking, and picnicking, and it’s also part of a state park that offers amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
Comet Falls
Comet Falls is a majestic waterfall located on the south side of Mount Rainier, about two hours from Seattle. The waterfall is 462 feet high and is surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
One of the unique aspects of Comet Falls is its accessibility. The waterfall is located near a parking lot, and the trail to the waterfall is well maintained, making it an easy hike for visitors of all ages. The waterfall is also part of a national park and offers amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
*Please note that the information provided in this section is for reference only and may be subject to change. Please check with the respective parks for the latest information and updates.
Family-Friendly Waterfalls Near Seattle
Are you looking for a family-friendly adventure near Seattle? Look no further than these three stunning waterfalls: Twin Falls, Deception Falls, and Rainbow Falls.
Twin Falls
Located in the Olallie State Park, Twin Falls is a popular destination for families seeking a picturesque hike. The trail is well-maintained and offers a moderate difficulty level, perfect for children and adults alike. The falls themselves are a breathtaking sight, with water cascading down a 135-foot drop into a crystal-clear pool below.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the many picnic tables located near the falls. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the cool waters for a refreshing break from the hike. Just be sure to supervise young children closely, as the water can be swift and dangerous.
Deception Falls
Located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Deception Falls is a must-see for families visiting the Seattle area. The trail is short and easy, making it accessible for even the youngest hikers. And the falls themselves are simply stunning, with water cascading down a rocky slope into a tranquil pool below.
The area surrounding the falls is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and elk. Keep your eyes peeled and you might just spot one of these majestic creatures as you explore the trail.
Rainbow Falls
Last but certainly not least, Rainbow Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the Snoqualmie Pass area. The trail is short and easy, making it perfect for families with young children. And the falls themselves are simply magical, with water cascading down a rocky slope and creating a rainbow of colors in the mist.
Pack a camera and capture some memories as you explore the area around the falls. And don’t forget to stop and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Waterfall Safety Tips
Waterfall hikes can be an exciting and adventurous outdoor activity for all ages. However, it is important to prioritize safety while enjoying these natural wonders. Here are some essential waterfall safety tips to keep in mind before embarking on your next hiking adventure.
Wear Proper Footwear
Wearing the right footwear is crucial for a safe and comfortable waterfall hike. Opt for sturdy and supportive hiking boots or shoes with good traction. Avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops or any other open-toed shoes as they offer little protection against rocks, roots and slippery surfaces. Additionally, make sure your footwear is waterproof as you may get your feet wet while crossing streams or getting close to the waterfall.
Stay on Designated Paths
While hiking to a waterfall, it is important to stay on designated paths and trails. These paths are usually marked out and maintained by park authorities to ensure your safety. Straying from these paths can be dangerous and lead to accidents. Rocks and terrain can be unstable and slippery, especially near the waterfall. Also, staying on designated paths helps preserve the natural environment and prevent erosion and damage to plant life.
Watch Children Closely
Waterfall hikes can be a fun activity for the whole family, but it is important to keep children under close supervision. Children may not be aware of the dangers and risks involved in hiking to a waterfall. They may run ahead or wander off the designated path, putting themselves in danger. An adult should always accompany children on a hike and be mindful of their whereabouts throughout the trip. Moreover, it is important to teach children about waterfall safety beforehand, such as staying on the designated path and not climbing on rocks or trees.
Secret Waterfalls Near Seattle
Seattle is known for its beautiful scenery, and what better way to experience it than by discovering some of the hidden gems in the area? The secret waterfalls near Seattle are a must-see for any nature lover, and here are three of the best ones to add to your bucket list.
Surprise Falls
As the name suggests, Surprise Falls is a hidden gem that is tucked away in the North Cascades. This waterfall is a bit of a hike to get to, but it’s well worth the effort. The trail to Surprise Falls is about 3.5 miles round trip and includes a steep climb, but the views along the way are breathtaking.
When you reach the waterfall, you’ll be awestruck by its beauty. The water cascades down a series of rocks and into a crystal-clear pool below. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or just to sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
If you’re planning a visit to Surprise Falls, make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, but the payoff is well worth the effort.
Boulder River Falls
Boulder River Falls is another hidden gem that is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This waterfall is a bit easier to get to than Surprise Falls, with a trail that is just under 3 miles round trip.
The trail to Boulder River Falls takes you through a dense forest, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the river along the way. When you reach the waterfall, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the cascading water. The pool at the base of the waterfall is perfect for a quick swim on a hot day.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded spot to relax, Boulder River Falls is the perfect destination. Just make sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture the beauty of this hidden gem.
Otter Falls
Otter Falls is located in the Olympic National Forest and is a bit of a hike to get to. The trail to the waterfall is just over 4 miles round trip and includes a few steep sections, but the views along the way are worth the effort.
When you reach Otter Falls, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the cascading water. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and the pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a quick dip.
If you’re planning a visit to Otter Falls, make sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, but the experience of seeing this hidden gem is well worth the effort.
In conclusion, the secret waterfalls near Seattle are a must-see for any nature lover. Surprise Falls, Boulder River Falls, and Otter Falls are just a few of the hidden gems in the area that are worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax or an adventure-filled hike, these waterfalls have something for everyone. So grab your hiking boots and get ready to discover the beauty of the secret waterfalls near Seattle.
