Washington is filled to the brim with natural wonders of every size and shape, but there's no denying that our gorgeous, cascading waterfalls are just one of the highlights of our state. Fortunately, we have plenty of them! In fact, there are around 2,000-3,000 waterfalls in Washington. Now obviously, a good portion of these will require a hefty hike to reach -- but not the picture-perfect Snoqualmie Falls, one of our state's most spectacular natural wonders. Best yet, reaching the Snoqualmie viewing area requires no real effort at all and is accessible for nearly everyone.
Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington's most popular attractions, drawing over 1.5 million visitors per year.
But don't worry about battling crowds -- there's a huge viewing area and plenty of small paths you can take for the best views.
The waterfall was formed thousands of years ago by ancient glaciers, and has been treasured for centuries by Native Americans.
The Snoqualmie Tribe established a camp at the base of the nearby Mount Si and villages in what is now Fall City. The word "snoqualmie" is actually an interpretation of the Salish word meaning "moon." Uniquely, the waterfall itself features prominently in tribal Creation stories and is an incredibly sacred site, even today.
By the time the first white settlers arrived in 1850, the waterfall was already a tourist destination.
In fact, pioneer women used to get a thrill out of edging as close to the falls as they could while friends held on to their dresses to keep them from falling.
These days, people (hopefully) don't dangle over the edge to see the falls! And with the easy to reach viewing platform, such dangerous feats aren't necessary.
In fact, the viewing platform is just a few steps from the parking lot. As you can see, the viewing platform offers some stellar views. No hike needed.
Even if you can't get a parking spot right next to the falls, you can simply park across the street and cross using the pedestrian bridge.
Snoqualmie Falls is 269 feet tall, which is pretty impressive. To put its size in perspective, Niagara Falls is only around 188 feet tall.
But as magnificent as it is to see the falls from the top, seeing the base will make you realize how massive Snoqualmie Falls really is.
Human for perspective!
If you feel like braving the mist to get up close and check out the base of the waterfall, a short and easy trail will take you there.
The trail is around 1.4 miles and shows off a completely new side of the waterfall.
No matter the weather and no matter the season...
...Snoqualmie Falls is truly one of Washington's most spectacular sights from every single angle.
This iconic waterfall in Washington might just be one of the most photographed spots in the state. But we can say with certainty that Snoqualmie Falls is even more beautiful in person! And if you get hungry, you can always enjoy views of it from The Dining Room at the Salish Lodge & Spa.
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