Five Beginner Friendly Waterfall Hikes on Seattle’s Eastside

Posted byMWPosted inSee + DoTags:,
Snoqualmie Falls Water fall in Snoqualmie, WA

An iconic part of Pacific Northwest scenery, the waterfalls found on Seattle’s Eastside have to be one of nature’s best gifts. If you’re looking for a way to find some peace and calm, head out on one of these hikes, located less than an hour from about anywhere on the Eastside!

Cherry Creek Falls in Duvall, WA

1. Cherry Creek Falls (Duvall)

Distance & Elevation: 5 Miles Round Trip, 450 ft. Elevation Gain

Description: By far the longest of the waterfall hikes on our list, the hike to Cherry Creek Falls is still a moderate, beginner friendly endeavor, that leads you through the site of an early 1900’s logging camp, to the base of the gorgeous 25 foot falls.

Know Before You Go: The hike does require a creek crossing, so boots or water friendly shoes are recommended. There are no public restrooms, so “go before you go.” Lastly, please respect the nearby local private properties when parking and starting the hike.

For More Information: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/cherry-creek-falls

Snoqualmie Falls in Snoqualmie, WA

2. Snoqualmie Falls (Snoqualmie)

Distance & Elevation: 1.4 Miles Round Trip, 250 ft. Elevation Gain

Description: Arriving at the falls, you’ll have several opportunities to immediately view the massive Snoqualmie Falls waterfall from the ADA accessible viewing areas surrounding the Salish Lodge and Spa, which sits at the very top of the Falls. A three-quarterish mile long interpretive trail will lead you down to a lower view point, for fuller views of the massive 268 ft drop of the Snoqualmie River. It’s no wonder this breathtaking natural wonder is a top attraction in the Seattle region.

Know Before You Go: Though not a strenuous distance or elevation, the hike starts from the elevated parking lot with a descent down to base of the Falls, meaning you’ll have to hike UP on the way back home. This hike is also the busiest on our list, so avoiding peak hours is recommended.

For More Information: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/snoqualmie-falls

Franklin Falls in North Bend, WA

3. Franklin Falls (North Bend)

Distance & Elevation: 2 Miles Round Trip, 400 ft. Elevation Gain

Description: The hike to Franklin Falls leads you to the third tier in a trio of falls (the first two are not visible), that falls 70 ft. from the ledge above. One of our favorite easier hikes for both adults and kids, we love that you can walk all the way to the waterfall’s pool for an up close experience.

Know Before You Go: The spray from the waterfall can freeze during lower temperatures, making the final rocky steps down to the base of the falls quite slippery. Even without going to the base you can still get a nice view.

For More Information: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/franklin-falls

Weeks Falls in North Bend, WA

4. Weeks Falls (North Bend)

Distance & Elevation: 1.6 Miles Round Trip, Elevation Gain Negligible

Description: The hike to Weeks Falls makes a great outdoor adventure, even for the youngest of hikers. It is also the least traveled on our list, and could be considered more of a short wander through the woods than a full on hike. A short interpretive trail leads to a small concrete overlook of the 30 ft. falls, and several side trails lead down to the river for various view points.

Know Before You Go: (Important!) The driving directions we found online did not seem to be accurate (they took us to Twin Falls instead). We would recommend using the following directions to navigate to the destination – From I-90 East take Exit 38 and follow the signs to Olallie State Park. Park in the main State Park lot when you first enter, or the second lot on the left. Follow the short trail that parallels the river to reach the falls lookout.

For More Information: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/weeks-falls

Twin Falls in North Bend, WA

5. Twin Falls (North Bend)

Distance & Elevation: 2.6 Miles Round Trip, 500 ft. Elevation Gain

Description: Several peekaboo views and a main viewing platform offer multiple viewpoints of the serene set of “Twin Falls” on this out and back hike. With a little more varied terrain, this hike offers more of a workout, without being too strenuous. The hike can be extended past the main falls, and continued on to the John Wayne Trail for a longer outing.

Know Before You Go: Another of the more popular hikes on our list, we do recommend going early to avoid crowds.

For More Information: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/twin-falls-state-park