12 Kid-Friendly Waterfall Hikes for Seattle-Area Families

Kids will love: Viewing this absolutely massive and powerful waterfall from both above (at the upper observation deck) and below (at the lower observation deck). 

Highlights: The top of Snoqualmie Falls is only 100 yards from the parking lot — head here to the Upper and Lower Observation Decks first. On nice weekends and summer days, you might be jostling elbows to get a perfect view of this mist-throwing marvel, Washingtons most popular waterfall and a top tourist destination. Many of those tourists are avid fans of the ’90s cult TV show “Twin Peaks,” which prominently featured the Snoqualmie River, the falls and adjacent Salish Lodge. Watch in awe at the enormous volume of the falls as the Snoqualmie River plunges a sheer 268 feet into a massive amphitheater of rock. 

For the hike to the base of the falls, take the wide interpretive trail (a mix of gravel, boardwalk and wooden steps) down .7 miles to the base of the lower falls. Take time to read signs along the way that explain the natural history of the area, hydroelectric projects, and how the falls are sacred to the Snoqualmie Tribe. There is a parking lot at the base of the falls if you don’t wish to hike down for this view, but space is limited.

Distance: 1.4 miles round-trip, 280 feet elevation gain

Info: The falls are owned by the the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, along with the Salish Lodge and Spa. 

Directions: Drive I-90 east to Exit 25, then head north on Snoqualmie Pkwy for 3.6 miles. Turn left onto Railroad Ave and after half mile, look for the (free) visitor parking on your right. 

Next stop: Sol Duc Falls