Best Waterfalls in Washington
Are you looking for the best waterfalls near Seattle? Well I've got you covered. My name's Kathleen and I'm an adventure photographer (I photograph landscapes & elopements) based in Washington who loves to explore. I'm an avid hiker and adventurer- going waterfall hunting is one of my favorite pastimes! I'm thoroughly convinced that Washington and Oregon has the best waterfalls in the United States. Visit multiple in a day, or one at a time and experience some of the best that the PNW has to offer. Check out my list of the best 20 waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest! Whether you're looking for a short walk, or a nice day hike, there is a trail in here for you.
Pro-tip: The best time to view waterfalls is in the spring. This is right when all the snow is melting and is when waterfalls will be at their peak flowing. Visit any of these falls between March-June to see the biggest flow.
1. Franklin Falls
Length: 2.0 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 400 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Northwest Forest Pass
This waterfall is one of my absolute favorites in Washington. Accessible year round and only about an hour outside of Seattle, this trail is incredible. Hiking alongside the river, you eventually reach this 70 foot waterfall- and you can even access the base directly! Look for it in winter, when for a short period the falls freeze over completely (but don't forget to bring those microspikes!). This is also the perfect trail for those new to hiking or those with children!
2. Comet Falls
Length: 3.8 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1250 ft
Dog-Friendly: No
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: National Park Pass
Hike to this impressive waterfall that drops 301 feet, with numerous other small waterfalls (and two big ones!) and cascades along the way. Located in Mount Rainier National Park, this trail is gorgeous- you can even get right to the base of this waterfall too!
3. Narada Falls
Length: 0.2 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 100 ft
Dog-Friendly: No
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: National Park Pass
Located in Mount Rainier National Park, this waterfall is well worth the stop if you're in the park. On the way to Paradise this is the perfect pit-stop and leg stretcher that leads to a gorgeous waterfall. About 50 feet wide and dropping 168 feet, these falls are truly stunning. This short hike is very popular, just keep in mind that it is often wet and is steep- so have good footwear and watch your step!
4. Twin Falls
Length: 2.6 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Discover Pass
These falls are incredibly close to the Seattle area and are a lovely day trip away from the city. Actually three separate waterfalls, this short but steep trail is very beautiful. But keep in mind, due to the proximity to the city and the fact that it's relatively easy, this trail is a busy one!
5. Myrtle Falls
Length: 0.8 roundtrip
Dog-Friendly: No
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: National Park Pass
A beautiful destination close by to the Paradise visitor's area in Mount Rainier National Park, these falls are definitely worth seeing! You may also choose to keep going on either the Skyline or Golden Gate trails to explore more and get gorgeous, up-front views of Mount Rainier!
6. Marymere Falls
Length: 1.8 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Dog-Friendly: No
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None
Located on the Olympic Peninsula near Lake Crescent, this waterfall is another gem of Washington state. Hike among giant and impressive trees and mossy forest growth, along a creek, and finally leading to multiple viewpoints of this 90 foot waterfall.
7. Wallace Falls State Park
Length: 5.6 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1300 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Discover Pass
One of Washington's most popular attractions, I definitely recommend arriving early here to beat the crowds! This trail is consistently gorgeous and has nine separate and beautiful falls. Not too far from Seattle, this is another wonderful day trip!
8. Palouse Falls
Length: 1.0 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 803 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Discover Pass
The official waterfall of Washington State, these iconic falls are not to be missed. A much different environment than Western Washington, the area is gorgeous (and sunset here is not to be missed!). 198 feet high, this waterfall is surrounded by stunning cliffs. Be aware, there are footpaths that lead to the base of the falls, however it is highly discouraged to take it as it is dangerous and can lead to injury.
9. Bridal Veil Falls
Length: 4.0 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1000 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Northwest Forest Pass
A beautiful waterfall that you can get up close and personal with, these falls stream down a 100 foot rock face. You can also decide to hike to the nearby Lake Serene! Not too far from Seattle, this is another beautiful trail (yet very busy!).
10. Rocky Brook Falls
Length: 0.1 roundtrip
Not truly a hike, but this waterfall is well worth the stop if you happen to be in the Olympic Peninsula area!
11. Murhut Falls
Length: 1.6 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 250 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None
A relatively unknown waterfall, this stunning 130 foot waterfall plunges through the mossy forests. This is another wonderful spot within the Olympic Peninsula.
12. Madison Falls
Length: 0.2 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 46 ft
Dog-Friendly: No
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None
This paved trail ends at a truly beautiful waterfall and is yet another great spot to visit on the Olympic Peninsula.
13. Dry Creek Falls
Length: 4.6 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 860 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Northwest Forest Pass
Located in the Columbia River Gorge, and technically in Oregon, this waterfall is not too far of a trip from Seattle and features an absolutely gorgeous waterfall surrounded by mossy boulders and cliffs. A secluded gem, this 60 foot waterfall makes an amazing destination to visit.
14. White River Falls State Park
Length: 0.5 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 250 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None
Another gem technically located in Oregon, these waterfalls are another gorgeous destination from Seattle. This dramatic two-tiered waterfall is a stunning sight!
15. Spoon Creek Falls
Length: 0.8 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Yet another stunning waterfall located on the Olympic Peninsula, this waterfall is a gorgeous day trip. A lesser known waterfall nearby Wynoochee Lake, you can even wade in the pool beneath the falls! If you still want more waterfalls, travel to the nearby Wynoochee and Maidenhair Falls.
16. Snoqualmie Falls
Length: Main viewpoint is walk up
Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
One of the most popular waterfalls in the state (drawing approximately 1.5 million visitors per year), these falls are incredibly close to Seattle! When you park, it's just a short walk to the upper viewing deck. Additionally, you can park at the lower parking lot and take a short walk to view the falls at their base. These falls drop a dramatic 268 feet and generates electricity for Puget Sound Energy!
17. Horsetail and Ponytail Falls
Length: 2.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 375 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
These are both beautiful waterfalls! You can even walk behind one of them! A short trip from Seattle to Oregon, this hike is well worth the visit.
18. Latourell Falls
Length: 2.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 540 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
This is an absolutely beautiful waterfall to go visit and is a must see if you're taking a day trip to Washington!
19. Falls Creek Falls
Length: 4.0 roundtrip
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: None
Explore this easy trail just outside of Winthrop for views of multiple different waterfalls. A gorgeous hike, this one is perfect for those with families or new to hiking!
20. Cedar River Falls
Length: 3.5 roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Parking Pass/Entry Fee: Northwest Forest Pass
A short and gradual hike to a pretty two-tiered waterfall, these falls are most impressive early in the spring. A pleasant day trip, this hike is sure to please!
Meet Your Washington Adventure Photographer
Hi! My name is Kathleen and I'm an adventure wedding and elopement photographer (and your new friend!). I'm here to help guide you to having the ultimate wedding day experience, and to document every single moment of it. I would love to help you plan your elopement and answer any questions you may have! Learn more about me or my Washington Elopement Packages.
Get in touch with me and let's start planning your dream adventure.