The Pacific Northwest’s signature mist adds an ethereal touch to Seattle’s nearby waterfalls, from the thundering 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls to the secluded Twin Falls trail in North Bend. Each cascade offers a perfect escape from the Emerald City’s urban pace.
Within an hour’s drive from Pike Place, hikers can discover the three-tier wonder of Wallace Falls near Gold Bar or the dramatic 1,328-foot drop of Bridal Veil Falls in Index. Teneriffe Falls rewards those seeking a more challenging trek.
Explore these PNW cascades in our guide below!
Featured Waterfalls in Seattle
- Wallace Falls (Gold Bar)
- Snoqualmie Falls (Snoqualmie)
- Bridal Veil Falls (Index)
- Twin Falls (North Bend)
- Teneriffe Falls (North Bend)
Tourist-Friendly Waterfalls in Seattle
Snoqualmie Falls (Snoqualmie)
What to Expect
268-foot hydroelectric waterfall
Description
Snoqualmie Falls is a 268-foot waterfall located on the Snoqualmie River, offering stunning views from both the top observation deck and the bottom via a 1.4-mile round-trip hike. It is a significant cultural site for the Snoqualmie Tribe and features a hydroelectric power plant. The falls are known for their dramatic spray during high water periods and are a popular spot for photography and hiking. The area includes amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and a nearby lodge with dining options.
Where: Snoqualmie | More Info: Snoqualmie Falls
Wallace Falls (Gold Bar)
What to Expect
Three distinct waterfalls with a total drop of 392 feet
Description
Wallace Falls features a stunning series of three waterfalls along the Wallace River, with a total drop of 392 feet. The Middle Falls, the most impressive, plunges 260 feet into a scenic amphitheater, while the Lower and Upper Falls offer additional cascades and views. The park provides well-maintained trails that lead to multiple viewpoints, allowing visitors to appreciate the falls from various angles. The lush forest surrounding the falls enhances the natural beauty, making it a prime location for photography and nature walks. The area is also rich in wildlife, providing opportunities for birdwatching and exploration.
Where: Gold Bar | More Info: Wallace Falls
Remote Wilderness Waterfalls near Seattle
Bridal Veil Falls (Index)
What to Expect
Tiered waterfall with multiple cascades
Description
Bridal Veil Falls is a stunning 1,291-foot tiered waterfall located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. It is accessed via a 4.2-mile out-and-back trail that offers scenic views of old-growth forests and moss-covered rocks. The falls are particularly notable for their multiple cascades, resembling a bride's veil, and are fed by snowmelt and runoff from surrounding mountains. The trail ends at a dramatic viewpoint where visitors can see the falls up close. Features a mix of gradual and steep sections, including stairways near the falls.
Where: Index | More Info: Bridal Veil Falls
Teneriffe Falls (North Bend)
What to Expect
Three-tiered horsetail waterfall
Description
Teneriffe Falls is a three-tiered waterfall located between Mounts Si and Teneriffe. The upper tier is 226 feet tall and visible from nearby roads. The trail to the falls is moderate, featuring 22 switchbacks through a forested area. The falls are best seen in spring when water volume is highest. The trail offers scenic views and is part of a larger network of trails in the Mount Si area.
Where: North Bend | More Info: Teneriffe Falls
Twin Falls (North Bend)
What to Expect
135-foot waterfall drop
Description
Twin Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Olallie State Park, featuring a 135-foot drop through a narrow rock canyon. The trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike that offers multiple viewpoints of both the upper and lower falls. The hike includes switchbacks through lush forest and offers opportunities to see wildlife like elk. The trailhead is easily accessible from I-90, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. Features a long bridge offering stunning views of the falls.
Where: North Bend | More Info: Twin Falls
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