Wallace Falls

Wallace Falls State Park, Washington

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Trip Date: Wednesday, November 11th, 2020
Last Updated: Monday, June 28th, 2021
By Ricky Holzer

Hike Information

Rating ★★★★☆(4/5)
Overall Difficulty Moderate
Navigation Difficulty     Easy
Distance 5.6 miles roundtrip
Time 3 hours
Terrain Strenuous climbing, 1500 feet of elevation gain
Best Seasons All
Family Friendly No
Dog Friendly Yes
Accessible No

Highlights

Hike Summary

Seattle is known for its rain, but the weather doesn't have to prevent you from hiking. There is an abundance of waterfall hikes in the Pacific Northwest, and in my opinion, those hikes are better in the rain. Not only does the rain somewhat reduce the amount of people on trail, it also means temperatures are cool, the bugs disappear, and the scenery is perfectly moody -- mist and fog make waterfalls even more magical. But no matter the weather, there is a reason Wallace Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Washington.

The trail starts like most hikes in this region, cutting through a dense forest with a bit of uphill. Some powerlines yield some views of the surrounding area, as pictured below.

Fall colors and snowy slopes revealed in a break in the trees

Fall colors and snowy slopes revealed in a break in the trees

After about a mile and a half, you'll reach the viewpoint for the Lower Falls. There isn't much to see here (at least in comparison to the tall falls to come), but it's a good break spot before you have to do more uphill hiking to the next viewpoint.
Lower Wallace Falls with a glimpse of Middle Falls in the background

Lower Wallace Falls with a glimpse of Middle Falls in the background

Once you've conquered a series of switchbacks up about 500 feet of elevation gain, you'll be rewarded with the best views on the hike at the Middle Falls overlook. On one side, you can watch the three-tiered Middle Falls drop over 360 feet over jagged, mossy rocks, as shown in the first picture below. On the other side, you have views of the Skykomish River Valley, as shown in the second picture below. If you do visit on an exceptionally clear day, you can see the Olympic Mountains from here (instead of the mist and clouds I saw).
Middle Wallace Falls shrouded in mist and surrounded by moss

Middle Wallace Falls shrouded in mist and surrounded by moss

A view of Skykomish River Valley from the overlook near Middle Falls

A view of Skykomish River Valley from the overlook near Middle Falls

Continue on the final stretch of uphill, and you'll reach the end of the trail at the Upper Falls. This waterfall drops over 240 feet, so high that you can't see the entirety of the falls through the trees, as pictured below. Rest up while you have this view, and retrace your steps to finish the hike.
Upper Wallace Falls is your reward after an uphill climb

Upper Wallace Falls is your reward after an uphill climb

Enjoy this wonderful waterfall hike! For more reviews and last minute updates on conditions, check out the Washington Trails Association page about Wallace Falls. Connect with me using the social media links below and share your adventures!



Important Information

Dogs are allowed on leash. Despite the trail's popularity, the trip to Upper and Middle Wallace Falls involves a sustained uphill climb that isn't family friendly; however, the trip to Lower Falls is much easier if you're willing to turn around there. You can visit Wallace Falls in any season. Expect the park to be busy no matter when you go -- leave early or arrive late to ensure you snag a parking spot.

Directions

From Seattle, take Interstate 90 east to Interstate 405 north. Take the exit for Washington Highway 522 heading east. At the junction with U.S. Highway 2, stay right to continue heading east. In Gold Bar, turn left onto 1st Street, then turn right onto 1st Avenue/May Creek Road. At the Y-intersection, turn left onto Ley Road, then take the next right to enter the park, continuing to the parking lot at the end of the road.

Google Maps Directions

Parking, Fees, and Facilities

Parking is limited, so arrive early for your best chance at grabbing a spot! All vehicles must display a Discover Pass, which is available for purchase at the park or online for $11.50/day or $35/year. A Discover Pass allows you to visit any Washington State Park property, so I highly recommend buying an annual pass if you visit state parks more than 3 times per year. There are restrooms and a ranger station near the lot.

Nearby Hikes

Poo Poo Point has an amazing view of Mt. Ranier
Poo Poo Point via Chirico Trail
West Tiger Mountain Natural Resources Conservation Area, Washington
★★★★☆(4/5)
Puget Sound from the Loop Trail
Discovery Park Loop Trail
Discovery Park, Washington
★★★☆☆(3/5)

External Links