**Seattle’s Stunning Rainbow Waterfall — Wallace Falls Trail** *Wallace Falls via Woody Trail* 5 miles, 1400 ft elevation gain, about a 1-hour drive from Seattle The entire trail follows a flowing creek. The path is well maintained and easy to walk. On a sunny day, you can often see rainbows in the waterfall mist. Lush green forest paired with a clear stream— it feels like a little fairy’s home. Starting from the Woody Trail leads you straight to the falls. **Location:** Wallace Falls Parking Lot (just search on Google Maps) The Woody Trail is perfect for beginners and is a must-do classic route at Wallace Falls. The round trip is about 4.9 miles with ~1410 ft elevation gain. Overall difficulty is moderate— not too physically demanding, but still gives you that satisfying “hiking” feel. **Trail Experience** Aside from a short exposed հատված near the park entrance before reaching the trailhead, the rest of the hike is shaded by forest, making it very comfortable. Along the way, you’ll see: * Gentle flowing creeks * Small suspension bridges * Massive fallen tree roots (giving a true old-growth forest vibe) * And finally, the waterfall views In spring, the water flow is strong and the falls are especially impressive— this is the kind of hike that feels easy but incredibly rewarding **Parking & Pass** A Discover Pass is required. This is a popular hiking spot near Seattle, so the parking lot often fills up quickly (especially on weekends). If it’s full, you can park about 0.5 mile away along the road and walk in—it’s manageable. **Trail Options (Easy → Hard)** If you want to explore more or come back next time, here are some alternatives: * Railroad Grade Trail — 4.8 mi | 534 ft gain | out & back (easiest) * Wallace Falls via Woody Trail (this route) — 4.9 mi | 1410 ft gain | out & back (beginner-friendly; many families with kids) * Wallace Lake via Woody + Grey Ball Trail — 9.3 mi | 2004 ft gain | out & back * Wallace Falls + Wallace Lake Loop — 9.4 mi | 1906 ft gain | loop * Wallace Falls Loop (advanced) — 21.3 mi | 3461 ft gain | loop (more challenging) **Summary** If you’re looking for a hike that is: * Not too tiring * Full of scenic variety * With waterfalls, forest, and changing landscapes This is a perfect choice for a **beginner hike** or a **relaxed weekend outdoor adventure**.
Wallace Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Wallace Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Wallace Falls famous?
Wallace Falls is one of Washington's most popular day hikes, famous for its dramatic 265-foot upper cascade visible from multiple viewing platforms along a well-maintained trail system. The three-tiered waterfall within Wallace Falls State Park draws over 100,000 visitors annually and showcases the power of Wallace River as it plunges down steep granite cliffs.
Can you swim at Wallace Falls?
No. Wallace Falls is a steep, powerful cascade not suitable for swimming due to dangerous conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Wallace Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails throughout Wallace Falls State Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Wallace Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Washington State Discover Pass required for parking ($10 daily or $30 annual). No additional entry fee. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Wallace Falls?
Day-use parking area at the trailhead with space for approximately 100 vehicles. Discover Pass required ($10 daily or $30 annual). Parking lot can fill on summer weekends; arrive early. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Wallace Falls?
About 8.5 km / 5.3 miles return via Woody Trail (most popular route) from the parking area to the upper falls viewpoint. Shorter routes available to lower viewpoints. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Wallace Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. Steady uphill climb with approximately 430 meters / 1,400 feet elevation gain on well-maintained trail with switchbacks and stairs. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Wallace Falls?
Late spring through early fall (May–September) for best trail conditions and flow. Winter and early spring see heaviest flow but trails can be muddy and icy. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Wallace Falls
From the parking lot, choose between the Woody Trail (recommended, more gradual) or the Railroad Grade Trail. Both routes merge and continue uphill through forest with switchbacks. The trail passes viewpoints for the Lower Falls (1 mile), Middle Falls (1.5 miles), and Upper Falls (2.7 miles one-way). The Upper Falls viewpoint offers the most dramatic vista of the 265-foot cascade.
Wallace Falls official website
Attractions near Wallace Falls
- •Gold Bar (town) — small gateway town with restaurants and services, 2 miles west
- •Index Town Wall — popular rock climbing area near the historic town of Index, 10 miles east
- •Bridal Veil Falls — roadside waterfall viewpoint along US Highway 2, 15 miles east
- •Skykomish River — scenic river with fishing and rafting opportunities along Highway 2
- •Lake Wallace — small lake along the trail system within Wallace Falls State Park
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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