If you really want to see the falls in all their glory, schedule the hike for a rainy day, just after a major rainfall, or like now, when snow-melt is making its way via streams into the Snoqualmie River. When the runoff swells the falls, it’s an impressive sight.
This hike, however, can be made year-round. Parking during peak tourist season can be difficult. After all, this is one of the state’s most popular scenic attractions. Over 1.5 million visitors make their way to the falls each year.
The main parking lot is small. However, a larger overflow lot is directly across the street from the Salish Lodge.
The Salish Lodge, balancing on the cliff’s edge, is a five-star hotel and spa. It’s a mecca for newlyweds.
The Trek: The Snoqualmie River plunges 270 feet before continuing on its way through a steep gorge. Start out by walking up to the observation deck. From that vantage point, one can stare straight into the waterfall. It’s up close and personal. If there is a stiff breeze, expect to get a good dose of mist.
Depart the overlook and follow the trail and fence line. The cliffs are shear and the view is breathtaking. While venturing down this trail, look for the Snoqualmie Falls Trail sign.
Veer right. This is the trail to the waterfall’s base. It’s downhill the entire way. Steep and rocky, the path is wide and well trodden, as one would expect after thousands of boots and shoes have traipsed its length.
Head down through a forest of trees. The roar of the falls is never out of earshot. The Snoqualmie River eventually lies directly in front of you. Proceed left toward the power plant.
Follow the trail around the power plant. A portion is encased in chain link fence. The cage-like effect allows hikers to get a look inside the plant at the turbines that harness the power of the falls and provide about 16,000 homes with power.
Continuing on, the trail becomes a boardwalk. For its entirety, the backdrop is the falls. The boardwalk terminates with the falls in full view.
This observation point is spectacular. The sheer force and amount of water rushing over the edge is incredible.
The bowl at the base has been scoured out of rock. The falls’ sides are a mass of moss-covered cliffs constantly inundated with spray.
To venture closer, hike down the boardwalk and look for another trail relatively close to the powerhouse.
This trail follows the river’s rocky and boulder-strewn shore directly to the falls.
Get as close to the water as you dare. The view from the edge of the massive pool is impressive.
Distance: 1 mile
Destination: Falls plunge pool
and back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: Minimal
Getting there: I-405 south, then east on I-90. Continue to the interchange for Highway 18. Exit right, then make a left on Southeast Snoqualmie Parkway. Follow the parkway until it T’s with Railroad Avenue Southeast. Look on your left for the antique railroad cars waiting to be restored. Then follow the signs to Snoqualmie Falls.
Snoqualmie Falls
Vince Richardson
Snoqualmie Falls are at their best after a rain or when snow is melting.
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