As we near the last few weeks of spring, and gear up for the summer, there is no better time to get a taste of the wild and wonderful PNW! One natural feature that we’re lucky to have here in Washington and close to Seattle is an abundance of waterfalls. If you haven’t hit up these beauties before, there’s no time like the present! Here are amazing waterfalls you can explore near Seattle this season.
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Snoqualmie Falls
It’s an oldie but a goodie. This waterfall is classic and well known to most Seattlites considering that it is one of the closest major waterfalls to Seattle. Whether you know it from being an avid Twin Peaks fan or from the resort at the lodge it’s well worth a visit. And if you go, we highly recommend hiking down to the base.
Where: 37451 SE Fish Hatchery Rd
Bridal Veil Falls
As you may have guessed by the name, this scenic waterfall is reminiscent of a bride’s veil. The waterfall cascades down a 100 ft cliff so we can almost guarantee that you’ll be pretty dang blown away. Plus the 4-mile hike is quite nice as well.
Where: Mt Index River Rd
Rocky Brook Falls
We can’t even call this one a hike because it’s a 200-yard walk to the beautiful horsetail falls that is Rocky Brook. But it truly is well worth a visit.
Where:2405 Dosewallips Rd, Brinnon
Myrtle Falls
If you want the most bang for your travel, heading to Mount Rainier is a great spot to see waterfalls. The park is full of them and Myrtle Falls is easily accessible while still being extremely beautiful. So this one is a must if you’re already planning on heading to the park.
Where: Mount Rainier National Park
Spokane Falls
It’s not often that you’re able to see a massive waterfall in the middle of an urban center. Spokane Falls offers you just that and some awesome ways to view it. You can check out the SkyRide which takes you across the lower falls or the pedestrian bridges that give you a glimpse of the upper falls.
Where: Spokane, Washington
Lewis River Falls
If you want a moderately challenging hike with waterfalls view, head to Lewis River Falls. The hiking area will give you everything and more you could want in a waterfall adventure. You can also bring your pup as long as you keep it on a leash.
Where: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Palouse Falls State Park
This one is probably one of the more unique waterfalls our state has to offer. Because unlike the others, it’s not located in one of our pristine forests. Instead, Palouse Falls is on the Eastern side of the state. And while it’s a trek to get there, it’s absolutely worth it.
Where: Palouse Falls Rd
Falls Creek Falls
Real creative name, we know. But hey, it is a beautiful waterfall worth visiting! It’s actually one of southern Washington’s highest waterfalls at 335 feet and throughout your hike, you’ll climb 750 feet in elevation. Check it out!
Where: Central Gorge, Washington
Wallace Falls
This one is always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for something relatively easy with a reward at the end, then be sure to check out Wallace Falls. You can also see views of the valley and the Olympic Mountains. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Where: Wallace Falls State Park
Twin Falls
As the name suggests, this waterfall splits off in a unique way making it appear to be two waterfalls. And while this is a popular waterfall it’s for a good reason. You can access the river for fishing, kayaking or hike the trail for the waterfalls views.
Where: Olallie State Park
Whatcom Falls
If you’re driving up north then you absolutely have to check out Whatcom Falls. This waterfall is easily accessible but worth taking the extra time to actually see. You can enjoy not only the falls but also a historic stone bridge, built in the late 1930s by a WPA crew.
Where: Bellingham, Washington
Be sure to respect the signs at these hikes, and stay safe!
