Washington State’s diverse landscape creates the perfect conditions for some of the
most dramatic waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. From easily accessible roadside
cascades to hidden gems that require challenging hikes, these waterfalls showcase
the raw beauty of the Evergreen State throughout all seasons.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a memorable weekend adventure, these waterfalls offer something for every skill level and provide stunning
photo opportunities year-round.
Snoqualmie Falls
This 268-foot waterfall thunders down just 30 minutes east of Seattle, making it one
of the most visited natural attractions in Washington. The upper observation deck is
wheelchair accessible, while a short trail leads to a lower viewpoint that gives you a
different perspective of the falls.
The surrounding lodge and restaurant make it perfect for combining your waterfall visit with a memorable meal or overnight stay.
Palouse Falls
Carved by ice age floods, this 198-foot waterfall plunges dramatically into a circular canyon in eastern Washington’s high desert landscape. The main viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the falls and surrounding canyon, while a challenging trail leads to
different perspectives of this state waterfall.
The remote location provides excellent stargazing opportunities for those who camp at the state park.
Wallace Falls
The trail to Wallace Falls features three distinct waterfalls along a moderate 5.6-mile round-trip hike through old-growth forest. Each tier offers its own viewing platform, with the 265-foot Middle Falls often considered the most spectacular.
The well- maintained trail includes interpretive signs about local flora and fauna, making it educational as well as scenic.
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Twin Falls
Located in Olallie State Park, Twin Falls offers an accessible 2.6-mile round-trip hike
along the South Fork Snoqualmie River. The trail features both upper and lower
viewpoints of the 150-foot falls, with a sturdy bridge spanning the gorge between
them. The gentle grade makes this trail perfect for families with young children or
those seeking an easier hiking experience.
Marymere Falls
This 90-foot waterfall is accessed via a magical forest walk through ancient trees in Olympic National Park. The trail crosses Barnes Creek and Falls Creek on rustic log
bridges before climbing a series of stairs to the viewpoint.
The old-growth forest setting, with its massive ferns and moss-covered trees, creates an enchanting approach to the falls.
Franklin Falls
A popular year-round destination, Franklin Falls offers a relatively easy 2-mile round-trip hike that’s especially stunning when frozen in winter. The trail follows the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River, providing numerous photo opportunities along the way.
The 135-foot waterfall creates a misty microclimate that supports unique plant life around the viewing area.
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Panther Creek Falls
This unique waterfall in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest spreads out like a fan, with multiple streams cascading over moss-covered rock faces. The short but steep trail leads to an elevated viewing platform that provides a perfect vantage point of the falls.
The best flows occur during spring snowmelt, though the falls remain
impressive throughout the year.
Bridal Veil Falls
Located near Lake Serene, this 1,328-foot waterfall requires a challenging 4-mile round-trip hike with significant elevation gain. The trail winds through dense forest before reaching a series of viewpoints that showcase the falls’ impressive height.
The waterfall’s name comes from its delicate, veil-like appearance as it cascades
down the rock face.
Rocky Brook Falls
This powerful 229-foot waterfall near Brinnon offers one of the shortest walks to a
major waterfall in Washington. The falls plunge straight down a rocky cliff face, creating an impressive display of water power year-round.
The easy access and dramatic scenery make it a perfect stop while exploring the Olympic Peninsula.
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Myrtle Falls
Set against the backdrop of Mount Rainier, this picturesque 72-foot waterfall is accessed via a paved trail from Paradise. The short 0.4-mile round-trip walk offers
some of the most iconic photography opportunities in Mount Rainier National Park.
The combination of the waterfall, wildflower meadows, and the mountain creates
stunning compositions during the summer months.
Comet Falls
One of Mount Rainier’s most impressive waterfalls, Comet Falls drops 320 feet through a series of tiers in the park’s southwest region. The challenging 3.8-mile round-trip hike gains significant elevation but rewards visitors with multiple waterfall views along the way.
The falls are named for their resemblance to a comet’s tail when strong winds blow the water sideways.
Lewis River Falls
A series of three major waterfalls along the Lewis River offers multiple hiking options
in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The trail connects Lower, Middle, and Upper
Falls, each with its distinct character and viewing areas.
The crystal-clear turquoise pools below the falls provide perfect spots for summer picnics.
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Sol Duc Falls
This unique waterfall in Olympic National Park splits into three or four distinct
channels as it drops 48 feet into a narrow canyon. The easy 1.6-mile round-trip hike
through old-growth forest is accessible to most visitors and particularly beautiful in
spring.
The rustic bridge crossing the canyon offers perfect viewing angles of the falls from multiple perspectives.
Spray Falls
Located in Mount Rainier’s less-visited northwest corner, this 354-foot waterfall requires a moderate 6-mile round-trip hike along the Spray Park Trail. The falls plunge dramatically off a cliff face, creating a misty spray that supports unique plant
life in the surrounding area.
The trail offers stunning wildflower displays during the late summer months.
Murhut Falls
This 130-foot two-tiered waterfall on the Olympic Peninsula offers a short but sweet
1.6-mile round-trip hike through second-growth forest. The well-maintained trail leads
to a viewing platform that provides excellent views of both tiers of the falls.
The relatively unknown status of these falls means you’ll often have them all to yourself,
even on summer weekends.
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Chasing Waterfalls in Washington
Washington’s waterfalls offer year-round hiking opportunities, with each season
providing its unique perspective on these natural wonders. Remember to check trail conditions before heading out, bring appropriate gear, including waterproof boots, and follow ‘Leave No Trace’ principles to help preserve these spectacular sites for future generations.
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