Our Spontaneous Day Trip to Snoqualmie Falls

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Over the weekend, my family and I made a last-minute, spontaneous decision to visit Snoqualmie Falls, and it was so worth it! This 286-foot waterfall is surrounded by a two-acre park, with an observation deck, gift shop, and the Salish Lodge. The drive there was short and sweet, and it was very easy to find. From SeaTac, it typically takes about 45 minutes via I-405 N and I-90 E. We lucked out in getting VIP parking, right in front of the Upper Park Area.

The Upper Park has multiple viewpoints and observation areas, so you will certainly be able to get a great view of the waterfall. After viewing it from up above, we walked over to the start of the trail and headed down to the Lower Park Area (LPA). We decided it was best that only Daddy and our eldest hike down the trail, while Mommy and our youngest drove the car down. (Parent Pro Tip: If you are traveling with little ones, I highly recommend bringing a baby carrier and not a stroller!) The hike back up the half-mile trail is fairly steep, so you will definitely get a workout traveling back up the trail (hence my little one and I driving down to the LPA to meet Daddy and our eldest).

I am extremely glad that there was parking available at the LPA. Depending on who you're traveling with, it may work better to park at the bottom of the falls and work your way up, then back down.

After we met up again, we traveled through the narrow boardwalk, where there were two observation areas – one overlooking the river bend and the other directly in front of the falls. It was extremely crowded at the end; people crowded the viewpoint, and others were climbing over the railings to hike closer to the waterfall.

Given the crowd, we decided to turn back around and find an easier trail, leading down to the river and rocks. We made it back up towards the parking lot and found just the view we were looking for, and boy, did we luck out! As we hiked out to the rocks, we were able to get an amazing view of the river bend. The water was a bit rough, so we had to make sure our boys were in our arms at all times.

As we traveled further down the river, we came to a sandy inlet, where the water was particularly tranquil. It was still and clear enough that kids were able to play in the water. So of course, they jumped right in! We let them play for about 30 minutes and decided it was time to head back and go home. It was a great way to end our mini road trip!

Notes before your trip:

• If you plan on visiting Snoqualmie Falls, you may want to go on a weekday or a weekend morning. We went on a Saturday around 1:00 pm, so it was exceptionally full. Although it was a wonderful visit, I would have loved to get more photos without other people in the background.
• There are a few picnic areas if you want to bring in your own food, or you can dine at the Salish Lodge.
• For a great souvenir, be sure to visit the gift store and pick up a box of Snoqualmie Falls Pancake or Waffle Mix to remember your journey for many breakfasts to come.
• The free parking and free viewing areas are open from dawn to dusk and are wheelchair accessible.
• Leashed pets are allowed.
• Lights illuminate the waterfall in the evening.

Downtown Snoqualmie

The historic town of Snoqualmie is a charming destination in its own right. Drive just a few minutes from the falls, and you'll find a lively main street with cafes, restaurants, ice cream parlors, and gift shops. It's not hard to find somewhere to take a load off and eat while you walk down the street. Right in the middle of downtown, you'll find the Northwest Railway Museum, a favorite among history buffs and train enthusiasts of all ages. You can check out vintage trains and take a scenic ride to the top of the falls.

Famous Sites from Twin Peaks

Another big reason Snoqualmie Falls is a major tourist destination? The falls and the lodge overlooking it famously featured in the intro of the eerie 1990s television series Twin Peaks. After checking this site off their bucket list, fans can drive about 10 minutes to nearby Twede's Cafe, site of the famous Double R Diner.

Want more Twin Peaks lore? Drive back east to Seattle Southside and visit the Highline Heritage Museum, which features a permanent replica of the town of Twin Peaks painstakingly recreated by local artist Bruce Bickford. Then keep the Lynchian vibes going at The Pancake Chef, an iconic midcentury diner that's very reminiscent of The Double R Diner.

YouTuber Christine Lozada recently made a trip to the Falls and documented her journey. Take a look and see how beautiful the falls are!

Visiting the Pacific Northwest from out of town? The best place to stay is in Seattle Southside! Situated just south of downtown Seattle, this region is home to dozens of hotels catering to travelers of all kinds. It's the perfect home base if you want to explore Seattle's iconic sites, such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, and nearby destinations such as Snoqualmie Falls and Mt. Rainier National Park.

Browse our hotel directory to find the perfect accommodations, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly family spot or a luxury resort.