If you’re into waterfalls—and let’s be real, who isn’t—this road trip is gonna blow your mind.
We’re talking roaring cascades, hidden gems and dreamy forest trails.
Some are easy walk-ups, others need a bit of hiking, but every single one is totally worth it (and yes, there’s mist, moss, and magic involved).
Fill up the tank and get ready for an epic adventure through the coolest waterfalls Washington has to offer—you won’t believe what’s waiting just around the bend.
1. Marymere Falls
Marymere Falls is a 90-foot waterfall tucked into the mossy forests near Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park.
You’ll reach it after an easy 1.8-mile roundtrip hike that crosses a couple of charming wooden bridges and winds through old-growth trees so big you’ll feel like an ant.
The waterfall itself crashes down a steep rock face into a quiet pool, and if it’s rained recently, it’s extra powerful and misty—so bring a jacket!
This spot is a total fave for families and anyone who wants a magical forest moment without a huge trek.
2. Sol Duc Falls
Next up is Sol Duc Falls, and wow, this one brings the drama.
It’s actually three (sometimes four!) streams of water blasting over a cliff into a deep, narrow canyon, and the sound is absolutely thunderous in the best way.
The 1.6-mile roundtrip hike is dreamy, with a fairytale-style footbridge, fern-covered trees, and that cozy rainforest vibe you only get in Olympic National Park.
There’s even a hot springs resort nearby if you wanna soak your legs after the hike—talk about a perfect combo.
Just a heads-up: access to the falls is limited during winter, as the road leading to it is usually closed. It typically reopens from April/May through October—so be sure to check current conditions online before planning your visit.
3. Wallace Falls
Now if you’re up for a bit more of a workout, Wallace Falls is calling your name.
This 5.6-mile roundtrip trail climbs through dense forest and gives you sneak peeks of the falls along the way—so the payoff just keeps getting better.
The main event is a roaring 265-foot waterfall that drops in three epic tiers, with the middle one being the absolute showstopper.
There are benches at all the best viewpoints too, so you can catch your breath and snap some pics without missing a second of the action.
4. Snoqualmie Falls
Next, it’s time for something a little more iconic—say hello to Snoqualmie Falls.
This 268-foot powerhouse is just off the highway and super easy to visit, with a big viewing deck that gives you a jaw-dropping front-row seat.
It’s famous from the show Twin Peaks, so if you’re a fan, this one’s a must-see (plus, there’s a lodge right next to it where you can grab lunch with a view).
No hiking required here, but if you want to stretch your legs, there’s a short trail to the river at the bottom that’s totally worth it.
5. Franklin Falls
Ready to get up close and maybe even a little wet?
Franklin Falls is your jam, with a super fun 2-mile roundtrip hike that ends at a 70-foot waterfall crashing down into a rocky canyon.
You can walk right up to the base of the falls, which makes it a total favorite for photos—and yep, you’ll probably feel the spray.
It’s just off I-90 near Snoqualmie Pass, so it’s an easy stop that feels like a mini adventure tucked into the mountains.
6. Comet Falls
If you’re craving something wild and a little more challenging, Comet Falls is where things get real.
The trail is about 3.8 miles roundtrip with a solid uphill climb, but trust me—it’s worth every step once you see that 301-foot waterfall drop straight down like a silver ribbon from the cliffs.
You’ll pass smaller waterfalls along the way, cross log bridges, and hike through rocky sections that make it feel like a true mountain trek.
This one’s tucked inside Mount Rainier National Park, and if the mountain’s out, the views on the drive alone are worth the trip.
7. Silver Falls (Mount Rainier)
Now for something totally different but just as awesome—Silver Falls, hidden in the Ohanapecosh area of Mount Rainier National Park.
This 3-mile loop trail is a moderately easy walk through a magical forest, and the waterfall itself is a foamy, twisting rush of water crashing through a rocky gorge.
What makes it special is the color—the water here is this bright, glacier-fed blue that seriously pops against the deep green trees.
It’s the perfect combo of peaceful and powerful, and the trail is usually less crowded than others—so if you time it right, you might just get it all to yourself.
8. Panther Creek Falls
From there, head down to Panther Creek Falls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
This one’s more of a hidden gem, and the viewing platform is just a short walk from the parking area—easy peasy, no hiking boots required.
The falls burst out of the mossy cliffside in layers, with water streaming and spilling in all directions like a fancy fountain.
It feels like something out of a fantasy movie, and because it’s a bit off the beaten path, you might not run into large crowds.
9. Palouse Falls
And finally, let’s talk about the grand finale—Palouse Falls, the official state waterfall of Washington and a total showstopper.
It drops a whopping 200 feet into a deep basalt canyon that looks like something straight out of a desert dream, complete with golden cliffs and wide-open skies.
You can drive right up to the main viewpoint, and there are also designated viewing areas that let you take in the falls from different angles.
It’s out in eastern Washington, so it’s a bit of a drive—but trust me, this one’s got big, dramatic energy that makes the whole trip totally worth it.
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