Snoqualmie Falls Trail

Starting near King County, Washington, the Snoqualmie Falls Trail is a delightful loop trail that spans approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it accessible for most hikers while still offering a bit of a challenge.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards Snoqualmie Falls Park, located at 6501 Railroad Ave SE, Snoqualmie, WA 98065. There is ample parking available. For those using public transport, King County Metro Transit offers bus services that stop near the park. Check the latest schedules on their website to plan your trip.### Trail Overview The trail begins near the parking area at Snoqualmie Falls Park. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by the sound of the roaring Snoqualmie Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in Washington State. The falls drop a stunning 82 meters (268 feet) and are a must-see landmark right at the beginning of your journey.### Nature and Wildlife As you proceed along the trail, you'll traverse through lush Pacific Northwest forest, characterized by towering Douglas firs, western red cedars, and a variety of ferns and mosses. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and a variety of bird species such as bald eagles and ospreys. The trail is particularly beautiful in the spring and fall when the foliage is vibrant.### Significant Landmarks About 0.5 km (0.3 miles) into the hike, you'll come across the observation deck, offering a panoramic view of Snoqualmie Falls. This is a perfect spot for photos and to take in the sheer power and beauty of the falls. Continuing on, the trail will lead you down a series of switchbacks, descending approximately 100 meters (328 feet) to the base of the falls. Here, you can experience the mist and the thunderous sound of the water up close.### Historical Significance The Snoqualmie Falls area holds significant cultural importance to the Snoqualmie Tribe, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The falls are considered a sacred site, and the tribe believes that the mist from the falls carries prayers to the Great Spirit. Interpretive signs along the trail provide more information about the tribe's history and their connection to the land.### Navigation For navigation, it's recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on the correct path. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.### Final Stretch As you loop back towards the trailhead, the ascent can be a bit strenuous, but the well-maintained path and the surrounding natural beauty make it worthwhile. The entire loop should take around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the sights.This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and a bit of a workout, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.