If you are taking a trip to Seattle, budget in 2 hours to drive east and see Snoqualmie Falls. It is heralded as the most majestic & largest drop in North America, second only to Niagara Falls. It’s free, it’s easy, and it’s gorgeous. For travelers, the site has another feature–a 4-star rated hotel that sits on the edge of the cliff. The yoga room actually overhangs over the river leading up to the fall, and the spa is a Japanese/northwest theme. This small-ish resort is sought after for weddings and other special events.
So, since I’m a big believe pictures are better than words on this type of blog, I’ll give you the details.
Parking: Free. lot up top by the lodge (unless you valet) and a bridge connects to the falls. You can also park in a lower parking lot if you want to swim in the river. I highly recommend this if you have food or anything else you need to bring in.
Trail quality: superior. crushed gravel and wide. Some steep areas, but kids of most ages can make it up and down no problem.
Time: about 15 minutes down with children, about 20-25 minutes up depending on your level of fitness.
Travel time: about 30 minutes (no traffic) from Seattle -downtown about 40 min (no traffic).
Food: a small deli/ice cream and gift shop is also located on the site, so you have options if you don’t want to go into the lodge.