Washington is a beautiful state filled with amazing trails, and some of the best ones lead to stunning waterfalls! If you enjoy hiking and love seeing waterfalls, this list will guide you to some of the most exciting spots. Grab your hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and let’s explore these six awesome waterfall hikes!
1. Skyline Trail Loop
The Skyline Trail Loop is a fantastic adventure in Mount Rainier National Park. It’s famous for the towering Mount Rainier views and, in the summer, meadows filled with wildflowers! Along the way, you’ll spot waterfalls like Myrtle Falls, which tumbles over a cliff with Rainier in the background. The hike can be challenging, but the views are worth it. Keep an eye out for marmots and other wildlife!
- Distance: 5.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation gain: 1700 feet
2. Panorama Point
Panorama Point is part of the Skyline Trail, but it’s such a cool spot it deserves a mention! This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and nearby waterfalls. After you’ve enjoyed the sights, head back to explore more waterfalls along the trail. This area has tons of beautiful views, and it’s a great place to enjoy nature.
- Distance: 5.5 miles (loop with Skyline Trail)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,700
3. Marymere Falls
This hike to Marymere Falls is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a shorter adventure. Located near Lake Crescent, this 1.7-mile trail takes you through a lush forest before you reach the magical 90-foot waterfall. There are even fun bridges to cross along the way! It’s an easy trail that is great for families.
- Distance: 0.9 mile
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
4. Bridal Veil Falls and Lake Serene
Ready for a challenge? The Bridal Veil Falls and Lake Serene Trail is a harder hike but full of rewards! First, you’ll reach the incredible Bridal Veil Falls, which looks just like its name – a veil of water flowing over rocks. If you’re up for it, keep hiking to Lake Serene, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by mountains. This hike is longer and steep in parts, but the waterfall and lake views make it a great adventure.
- Distance: 8.2 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
5. Snow Lake Trail
The Snow Lake Trail is one of Washington’s most popular hikes. While the main feature is Snow Lake itself, there are also waterfalls along the trail, especially during snowmelt in the spring. The trail takes you through forests and up to the lake, where the clear water and the mountains tower in the distance. This hike is moderately difficult but very rewarding.
- Distance: 7.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1800 feet
6. Mount Storm King
Mount Storm King is a challenging hike that’s best for experienced hikers, but the views are absolutely worth it. Located near Marymere Falls, this trail takes you up steep paths and even some ropes to help you climb. The waterfall views are incredible, and from the top, you can see Lake Crescent and the surrounding mountains. This hike is a true adventure!
- Distance: 4 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- Elevation Gain: 2065 feet
