Washington State is a paradise for waterfall chasers. From roaring cascades hidden in the heart of the Cascades to misty falls tucked away in moss-covered forests, this corner of the Pacific Northwest delivers one jaw-dropping scene after another. I’ve explored Washington in every season, and no matter the time of year, its waterfalls never fail to impress. Some are quick stops just off the highway, while others require a hike through emerald-green trails that feel straight out of a fairytale.
In this guide, I’m sharing 12 of the best waterfalls in Washington State. Honestly, these are places where you’ll find epic scenery, incredible photo ops, and that signature Northwest magic that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
12 Awesome Washington State Waterfalls
Washington is packed with waterfalls, each one offering a different kind of adventure. Some are just steps from the road…perfect for a quick nature break…while others reward you with stunning views after a hike through mossy forests or alpine trails. Whether you’re chasing the mist of a roaring cascade or looking for a quiet spot to soak up the scenery, there’s a waterfall here for you.
From the rugged beauty of the Olympic Peninsula to the hidden gems of the Cascade Range, these are 12 of the best waterfalls in Washington State. Each one is worth adding to your itinerary!
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1. Palouse Falls
Palouse Falls is honestly one of the most dramatic waterfalls you’ll find anywhere in Washington – the thing drops 200 feet into this massive carved-out bowl that looks like something from another planet. I was blown away when I first saw it because the drive there takes you through the flat wheat fields of eastern Washington, and then suddenly you’re staring at this geological masterpiece that was carved out by ice age floods over 13,000 years ago.
The park has three different viewpoints that give you totally different perspectives of the falls. The lower deck is just a short walk from the parking lot, but definitely check out the Fryxell Overlook too – it’s where you get those postcard-perfect shots that show both the falls and the entire canyon. The best time to visit is April through July when the water flow is at its peak and it’s not blazing hot yet.
You’ll need a Discover Pass ($10 for the day or $30 annually), and fair warning – this place gets packed on weekends. The lot fills up fast and they don’t allow RVs or trailers during busy times because there’s literally nowhere to turn around. The last 2.5 miles to the park is on gravel road, but it’s well-maintained. Just make sure you have gas because the nearest station is 15 miles away in Starbuck. Also, there’s zero cell service out here, so download your maps beforehand and let someone know your plans.
Pro tip: Golden hour lighting here is absolutely incredible for photos, and the park is open from 6:30 AM to dusk, so you can definitely catch sunrise or sunset shots if you time it right.
2. Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is basically Washington’s most famous waterfall, and for good reason – this 268-foot cascade is more than twice as high as Niagara Falls and it’s only 30 minutes from Seattle. I’ve been here probably a dozen times over the years, and it never gets old. The upper observation deck gives you that classic view everyone posts on Instagram, but here’s what most people miss: there’s a lower observation deck that’s way less crowded and gives you a completely different perspective.
The hike down to the lower deck is about 0.7 miles and drops 250 feet through gorgeous old-growth forest. It’s steep but totally doable for most people, and the boardwalk at the bottom puts you right next to the river where you can feel the mist. Just know that hiking back up is the real workout – I’ve seen plenty of people huffing and puffing on the way back.
Parking is free if you use the lot across the street from the Salish Lodge (just walk across the pedestrian bridge), but there’s also paid parking closer to the falls if you don’t want to walk as far. The falls are lit up at night, which is pretty cool, and you can visit any time of day year-round. If you’re feeling fancy, the Salish Lodge has killer brunch, but honestly their pancake mix in the gift shop is just as good and way cheaper.
The area gets crazy busy on weekends, especially in summer, so either get there early or go on a weekday. Also, if it’s been raining recently, the falls are absolutely thunderous and you’ll definitely get misted at the viewing areas.
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3. Wallace Falls
Wallace Falls State Park is hands down one of the best waterfall hikes in Washington because you actually get three waterfalls for the price of one admission. The Woody Trail takes you to Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls, and you can turn around at any point depending on how much you want to push yourself. I always tell people the Middle Falls viewpoint is the sweet spot – it’s only 2.4 miles roundtrip and gives you the most dramatic views of both the 265-foot waterfall and the Skykomish River Valley beyond.
The trail starts out pretty mellow as you walk alongside the Wallace River, but it gets significantly steeper between Middle and Upper Falls. That last half-mile to Upper Falls is basically all switchbacks and will definitely get your heart pumping. The good news is the trail is well-maintained gravel the whole way, so it’s not technical at all.
Here’s the deal with parking: this place is absolutely slammed on weekends and the lot fills up by 11 AM, sometimes earlier in summer. They actually have a live parking camera on their website, which is genius. You’ll need a Discover Pass ($10 day use), and seriously consider getting the annual pass for $30 if you’re planning to hit multiple state parks.
The park is about an hour from Seattle via Highway 2, and there are clean bathrooms at the trailhead plus a few more along the trail. If you’re looking to extend your day, Big Eddy Park is just five miles east and has great river access for swimming and kayaking. The town of Index is also nearby if you want to grab food or check out some serious rock climbing routes.
4. Twin Falls
Twin Falls is one of those hikes that totally delivers on the “bang for your buck” factor – it’s only 3.6 miles roundtrip but you actually get three different waterfalls, not just two like the name suggests. I love this trail because it follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River the whole way, so you’re constantly hearing the sound of rushing water, and there are tons of spots to get down to the river if you want to dip your feet in or let your dog cool off.
The trail starts super mellow as you walk along the river through this gorgeous old-growth forest that feels straight out of a fairy tale. About a mile in, things get more interesting when you hit the first set of stairs down to the lower falls viewpoint – fair warning, that’s 104 steps down and the same back up, but the view is totally worth it. The bridge crossing is probably my favorite spot because you get this bird’s-eye view of the upper falls plunging down in multiple tiers.
Getting there is dead simple since it’s right off I-90 at Exit 34, making it perfect for a road trip pit stop or a quick escape from Seattle (it’s only 40 minutes). The parking lot holds about 20 cars but fills up crazy early on weekends – I’m talking 8:30 AM on summer days. You’ll need a Discover Pass ($10 for the day), and there are bathrooms at the trailhead.
The waterfall flow varies dramatically with the seasons because it’s partially used for hydroelectric power. Spring and winter after big rains are when it’s absolutely thundering, while late summer it’s more of a gentle cascade. Also, this trail is accessible pretty much year-round since it’s only at 620 feet elevation, making it perfect for those winter hikes when everything else is buried in snow.
5. Marymere Falls
Marymere Falls is honestly the perfect introduction to Olympic National Park if you’ve never been – it’s only 1.8 miles roundtrip with just enough elevation gain to make you feel like you accomplished something, but not so much that you’re dying on the way back. I love this trail because it takes you through this incredible old-growth forest where the trees are absolutely massive and everything is covered in that quintessential Pacific Northwest moss.
The waterfall itself drops 90 feet and has this really serene, ethereal quality, especially when the light filters through the canopy. The trail starts at the Storm King Ranger Station on Lake Crescent and begins super flat – you even walk through a little tunnel under Highway 101, which always makes me feel like I’m entering a secret world. The last bit gets steeper with some well-built wooden stairs, but nothing too crazy.
Here’s what’s cool about this area: you can easily combine it with other activities. Lake Crescent is right there and it’s stunning – like, unbelievably blue and crystal clear. I always tell people to pack a lunch and eat it by the lake after the hike. If you’re feeling ambitious, the Mount Storm King trail shares the same trailhead, though that’s a much more serious undertaking with rope sections and serious exposure.
You’ll need to pay the Olympic National Park entrance fee (about $30 for a vehicle for 7 days, or $55 for the annual pass), and parking can get tight during summer weekends. The Lake Crescent Lodge is also right in the area if you want to make it a longer stay and explore more of the Olympic Peninsula. Just remember that dogs aren’t allowed on trails in the national park, so leave the pup at home for this one.
6. Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls near Index is one of those waterfalls that feels way more remote and wild than it actually is – the thing cascades 1,300 feet down multiple tiers and really does look like a massive bridal veil draped over the cliff face. I’ve hiked this trail probably five or six times now, and it never gets old because the waterfall changes dramatically with the seasons.
The trail is about 4 miles roundtrip and shares the trailhead with Lake Serene, which means you can totally do both in one epic day if you’re feeling strong. The first part of the hike is pretty mellow as you walk through dense forest, but it definitely gets steeper as you approach the falls. What I love about this trail is that you get glimpses of the waterfall through the trees long before you reach the main viewpoint, which just builds the anticipation.
Getting there requires a bit of planning because the parking situation can be absolutely nuts, especially on summer weekends. You’ll want to get there early – I’m talking 7 AM or earlier if you’re going on a Saturday. The trailhead is right off Highway 2 near Index, and you’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass ($5 for the day or $30 annually). There are pit toilets at the trailhead but no running water, so bring everything you need.
The best time to see the falls is definitely spring when all the snowmelt is feeding into it – the volume is just incredible. Summer is great too, though the flow diminishes a bit. If you do the combo hike to Lake Serene, it adds another 3 miles and 1,000 feet of elevation, but that alpine lake is absolutely worth it if you have the time and energy.
7. Falls Creek Falls
Falls Creek Falls near Carson is seriously one of the most underrated waterfalls in Washington – this thing drops 335 feet in three distinct tiers and honestly rivals some of the more famous falls in the Columbia River Gorge but with way fewer crowds. I was completely blown away the first time I hiked here because the waterfall just keeps revealing itself as you get closer, and by the time you reach the base, you’re standing in this incredible amphitheater with water thundering down from three different levels.
The trail is 3.4 miles roundtrip and follows Falls Creek the whole way, which means you’re constantly hearing the sound of rushing water. There’s this amazing suspension bridge about halfway that spans a rocky gorge and gives you these spectacular views of the whitewater below. The best part is when you reach the base of the falls – if you visit during high water season (late spring/early summer), you’re going to get absolutely soaked from the spray, but it’s so worth it.
Here’s the thing about getting there: you have to drive about 15 miles north of Carson on Wind River Road, and the last couple miles are on a pretty rough gravel road with some serious potholes. I’ve done it in a regular car, but high clearance definitely helps. The road is gated from December 1st to March 31st, which adds an extra 4 miles to your hike if you go in winter.
You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass ($5 daily or $30 annually), and there are pit toilets at the trailhead but no water. The area has zero cell service, so download your maps beforehand. If you’re making a day of it, Panther Creek Falls is only about 30 minutes away and offers a completely different waterfall experience, plus you can grab a beer at Backwoods Brewery in Carson afterward.
8. Spray Falls
Spray Falls in Mount Rainier National Park is hands down one of the most spectacular waterfalls you’ll find anywhere, but getting there is definitely a commitment – it’s 6.6 miles roundtrip with some real elevation gain. I love this hike because it takes you through Spray Park, which is this incredible alpine meadow area that’s absolutely carpeted with wildflowers in late July and early August. The falls themselves live up to their name, creating this massive cloud of spray that you can see and feel from way farther away than you’d expect.
The trail starts at Mowich Lake, which is already pretty high up at about 4,900 feet, so you’re basically starting in the alpine zone right away. The first part of the hike is relatively mellow, but it gets steeper as you approach the falls. What makes this hike special is the variety – you’re walking through old-growth forest, crossing streams, hiking through meadows filled with lupine and Indian paintbrush, and then suddenly you’re face-to-face with Mount Rainier towering above you.
Getting to the Mowich Lake trailhead is an adventure in itself because you have to drive about 17 miles on gravel forest roads. The road is usually fine for regular cars, but it can be rough and dusty. The lake area itself is gorgeous and worth spending some time at even if you don’t do the falls hike. There are primitive campsites if you want to make it an overnight trip.
The best time to visit is definitely mid to late summer when the wildflowers are at their peak and the weather is most stable. Early season, the area can still have snow, and late season the flowers are done. You’ll need to pay the Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee, and honestly, I’d recommend making this part of a longer Mount Rainier trip since it takes some effort to get up there.
9. Panther Creek Falls
Panther Creek Falls is one of those Instagram-famous waterfalls that actually lives up to the hype – the water cascades down these moss-covered rocks in multiple streams, creating this almost fairy-tale scene that’s perfect for photos. I’ve been here probably ten times over the years, and it never gets old because the light filtering through the forest canopy creates this magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The hike is super short and sweet – only about 1 mile roundtrip – but there’s a bit of a scramble at the end to get to the best viewpoints. The trail follows Panther Creek most of the way, and you’ll hear the waterfall long before you see it. When you finally reach it, you’ll understand why this spot has become so popular on social media. The falls drop about 100 feet over this gorgeous basalt cliff face that’s completely covered in moss and ferns.
Getting there is pretty straightforward since it’s right off Wind River Road north of Carson. The parking area is small and can fill up on weekends, especially in summer, so get there early if you can. The trail can be a bit slippery, especially after rain, so wear shoes with good grip. There’s no entrance fee, which is nice, and dogs are allowed.
I always tell people to combine this with Falls Creek Falls since they’re only about 30 minutes apart and offer completely different waterfall experiences. Carson also has some good spots to grab food or drinks, including Backwoods Brewing Company which has really solid beer and burgers. The whole area is about an hour and a half from Portland or Vancouver, making it a perfect day trip destination.
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10. Deception Falls
Deception Falls is one of those perfect roadside waterfalls that makes for an easy leg-stretcher if you’re driving the Cascade Loop on Highway 2. The falls themselves are pretty impressive – the Tye River crashes through this narrow rocky gorge creating multiple cascades and pools – but what I love most about this spot is how accessible it is. You can literally park right next to the highway and be at the falls in about 2 minutes.
There are actually several viewing points connected by short trails and bridges, so you can see the falls from multiple angles. The main viewpoint has this cool suspension bridge that puts you right over the action, and if you’re brave enough to get close, the spray feels amazing on a hot day. I’ve stopped here countless times over the years while heading to or from Stevens Pass, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
The area can get pretty busy during peak summer travel times and fall foliage season, but because it’s so quick and easy, people don’t tend to linger too long. There are picnic tables if you want to eat lunch, and pit toilets available. The best part is there’s no entrance fee – it’s just a quick, free nature break on your drive.
If you’re doing the full Cascade Loop, this makes a perfect stopping point to break up the drive. Leavenworth is only about 30 minutes further east if you want to make a day of it, and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness has tons of other hiking opportunities if you’re looking for something more substantial. Just be aware that winter conditions can make the viewing areas icy and potentially dangerous.
11. Myrtle Falls
Myrtle Falls in Mount Rainier National Park is basically the poster child for Pacific Northwest waterfalls – with Mount Rainier as the backdrop, this spot produces some of the most iconic photos you’ll ever take. The waterfall itself is relatively small, but the setting is absolutely unreal, especially when the mountain is out and you get those perfect reflection shots that make people think you’re some kind of photography wizard.
The best part about Myrtle Falls is how accessible it is. From the Paradise Visitor Center, it’s only about a 1-mile roundtrip walk on paved trails, making it perfect for families or anyone who wants that epic mountain scenery without the epic hike. I always recommend timing your visit for early morning or late afternoon when the light is best and the crowds are thinner.
Paradise is definitely the tourist hub of Mount Rainier, so expect crowds, especially on summer weekends. The good news is that there are tons of other trails in the area if you want to escape the masses. The Skyline Loop Trail starts from the same area and takes you up into the alpine meadows where the wildflower displays in late July and early August are absolutely mind-blowing.
You’ll need to pay the Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee, and parking at Paradise can be absolutely insane during peak season. I’m talking full lots by 9 AM on summer weekends. If you can visit on a weekday or get there super early, you’ll have a much better experience. The visitor center has food, restrooms, and tons of information about the park, making it a great base for exploring the area.
12. Boulder River Waterfall
Boulder River Waterfall up near Darrington is one of those hidden gems that feels way more remote and wild than it actually is. The trail follows the Boulder River through this incredible old-growth forest where some of the trees are absolutely massive – I’m talking 8-foot diameter cedars and firs that have been standing for centuries. The waterfall itself might not be the tallest on this list, but the setting is pure Pacific Northwest magic.
The trail is about 5 miles roundtrip and stays relatively flat the whole way, which makes it perfect for families or anyone who wants a longer forest walk without a lot of elevation gain. What I love about this hike is how peaceful it is – you’re following the river the entire time, there are tons of spots to sit and enjoy lunch, and you’ll probably see more wildlife than people, especially if you go on a weekday.
Darrington is a cool little mountain town that’s worth exploring if you’re making the drive up there. It’s got that authentic logging town vibe with some good local spots to grab food or coffee. The drive from Seattle takes about 90 minutes, and you’ll go through some gorgeous Skagit Valley scenery along the way.
The trailhead has decent parking and pit toilets, but no water, so bring everything you need. Because it’s not as well-known as some of the other waterfalls on this list, you can often have the place mostly to yourself, especially in fall or winter when the tourism crowds thin out. Just be aware that the access road can get pretty rough during winter, so check conditions before heading out.
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FAQs about Washington’s Most Impressive Waterfalls
Looking to learn more about Washington States coolest waterfalls? Here are some popular questions I’ve gotten over the years.
What is the best time of year to see waterfalls in Washington?
From my experience, spring is the best time to see Washington’s waterfalls at their fullest. Snowmelt feeds the rivers, and the flows are spectacular. That said, I’ve also hiked to waterfalls in late summer and loved it because the trails were drier and easier. Winter can be beautiful too, but I’ve learned to always check trail conditions before heading out.
Are Washington waterfalls family-friendly?
Many are. I’ve taken friends and family to roadside falls like Snoqualmie Falls that don’t require any hiking at all. But some of the more remote ones, like those deep in the Cascades, involve longer treks that might not be suitable for kids or casual hikers. I usually decide based on how much time we have and who I’m traveling with.
Do I need hiking experience to see these waterfalls?
Not necessarily. Some are just a short walk from the parking lot, while others require a couple hours of hiking. Personally, I enjoy a mix of both. On days I want an easy stop, I’ll head to Twin Falls or Snoqualmie. When I want more of an adventure, I’ll go for something like Wallace Falls, where the hike is part of the experience.
Are the trails to waterfalls in Washington safe in winter?
I’ve hiked in winter, and while it can be magical with snow and ice around the falls, it can also be slippery. I always pack microspikes and check weather reports ahead of time. Some trails close or become unsafe in heavy snow, so planning is key.
Do I need a pass or permit to visit waterfalls in Washington?
For several of the waterfalls I’ve visited, yes. Many trailheads in Washington require a Discover Pass or a Northwest Forest Pass. I keep both in my car because I never want to get a ticket. Before heading out, I check online or at the trailhead signs to see what’s needed.
