Looking to visit the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls? Here you can find out everything you need to know: what will you see at the falls, how to get there, what interesting activities you can do whilst there, where to stay, eat, what is the best time to visit and very pleasant tours you can go on!
What will I see?
Located just 25 miles outside the city of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls of the United States. It is also one of the major sources of hydro-electric power for the region. You can view the falls from a lookout with a platform which has a 180-degree view of the waterfall.
There is a nature trail to the river which begins a few yards from the observation platform and it is well-signed. Though very short, the trail is scenic as it descends through old trees to the powerhouse and views from below. The trail continues behind the powerhouse (this section is enclosed with fencing) to a boardwalk that leads toward the base of the falls.
How to get there?
By bus
From downtown Seattle, take Sound Transit’s Route 554 bus to the Issaquah Transfer Center, then catch Metro’s Route 209 bus toward North Bend. It drops you off right next to the falls ($1.50-$3.50 each way, free for kids under 5 years). The Metro Route 209 comes every hour or so (no service on Sunday’s), so you can spend time at the falls and then catch the bus into the town of Snoqualmie, or take a sometimes adventurous 20-minute walk on a path that runs along some interesting old railroads.
By car
Snoqualmie Falls is easy to reach by car from Interstate 90 Eastbound. Take exit 25 “Snoqualmie Parkway”, head North through the modern Snoqualmie Ridge housing development. After the downhill off the ridge go left onto 202, you will see signs leading you to Snoqualmie Falls park.
Once you get there, you will find huge free parking lots.
How much does it cost?
Snoqualmie Falls has no entrance fee so you don’t have to worry about booking in advance. The only thing you have to consider paying are the tours on offer, this can be a trekking tour, winery tour or a combined tour to the Leavenworth German Town Tour. Check the activities below and more general information about what you can do in Snoqualmie Falls.
What can I do at Snoqualmie falls?
- Biking and Hiking trails. Explore the area biking and hiking along the pathways, John Wayne Trail and the dog-friendly Mount Si Trail.
- Fall City Floating. Float on a 4-mile lazy raft down the River of Snoqualmie and have fun with your friends or family.
- Ski the summit at Snoqualmie. Located 45 minutes from the Roadhouse Restaurant & Inn, you can ski and snowboard on the slopes of Snoqualmie.
- Remlinger Farms. Suitable for families who want to experience the farm, picnics and seasonal berry picking. Just 10 minutes from the Roadhouse Restaurant & Inn.
- Snoqualmie Casino. Just nested between the lush wildernesses with beautiful views of the mountains. Enjoy plenty of table games or watch the live shows they do during the summer concert series. It’s 3.5 miles from Snoqualmie Falls. Opened 24 hours.
When is the best time to visit?
Snoqualmie Falls attracts 1.5 million visitors a year, usually on summer weekends. To avoid the crowds, better opt for a weekday. The park is always open. The waterfall flows year-round, hitting its peak during the late spring and early summer snowmelt.
Note that the Snoqualmie Falls can be dramatic when the weather is bad. The roar from the waterfall and the strong waters can create a mist that can get you totally soaked when on the observation deck.
Where to stay nearby the Snoqualmie falls?
At the top of Snoqualmie Falls, there is a luxury mountain lodge hotel — the Salish Lodge. Renowned to be 4-star service and Northwestern style, the hotel has a dining room looking out onto the falls. Consider taking a break at Salish Lodge for a drink or snack after you visit the falls.
There are more options of hotels and motels approximately 10 miles from the Snoqualmie Falls if you’re looking for something more affordable.
Check out the recommended hotels near the Snoqualmie Falls.
Where to eat?
At the falls, you can buy some basic snacks, water and other things. The Salish Lodge hotel offers upscale dining options which are worth considering if you’d like to enjoy a meal. There are two restaurant/town areas nearby (around a 1-mile drive) where you can choose from a selection of food from sandwiches to Mexican food or even steak dinner. The historic town of Snoqualmie offers a number of great food choices including a local Snoqualmie Brewery that makes burgers and sandwiches, Got Rice Chinese and Gianfranco Italian Restaurant.
If you prefer having something to eat outdoors, the goods news is there are many areas in the Snoqualmie Falls with tables to enjoy a picnic in the middle of nature!
Can I book some tours online?
Snoqualmie Falls are a popular day trip destination from Seattle due to its proximity; many visitors combine their visit to the falls with a city sightseeing tour of Seattle, winery areas and other nature spots.
You may check here our full catalog of Snoqualmie Falls tours from Seattle.
Here are a few options:
- Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour 100$ – 89€
Combine your Snoqualmie Falls tour with one of the best winery tours from Seattle. The pickup and drop off is from Seattle and airport hotels. In approximately 6 hours you will see everything, including the Chateau Ste Michelle, one of Washington’s oldest wineries.
- Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle City Tour 75$ – 67€
If you’re staying at Snoqualmie Falls, combine your ticket with a visit to the Snoqualmie Falls. You’ll get the best of both of worlds, from the vibrant city of Seattle to enjoy the beauty and power of the Snoqualmie Falls. In overall, the tour lasts 4 hours approximately.
- Private tour: Snoqualmie Falls and Woodinville Wineries Day Trip from Seattle 163$ – 145€
Go wine tasting just outside of Seattle to the best wineries of the region on a private full-day tour. On the way to the wineries, they take you to Chateau Ste Michelle Winery and Snoqualmie Falls. This tour lasts around 6 hours approximately, just 30 minutes from Seattle and you can enjoy this day trip with your own private group and guide.
I hope this guide helps you with getting to know more about the Snoqualmie Falls. If you have any question please do not hesitate to comment below.
Enjoy the Snoqualmie Falls!