Top 10 Waterfalls in Washington State

Washington is home to over 3,000 cataloged waterfalls — more than any other U.S. state. From the tallest waterfall in the continental United States to the most iconic and accessible cascades near Seattle, Washington’s waterfalls are a breathtaking testament to nature’s power and beauty.

#1 Snoqualmie Falls — 269 ft (82 m)

Snoqualmie Falls is the most visited waterfall in Washington State and arguably its most famous. This thunderous 269-foot curtain of water has been featured in countless films and television shows, most notably as the Great Northern Hotel in Twin Peaks. The falls are easily accessible via a paved pathway from the parking lot to the main viewing platform, where head-on views of the cascading water are absolutely breathtaking.

Adjacent to the falls sits the historic Salish Lodge & Spa, offering overnight stays with spectacular waterfall views. The overlook area is open year-round, and the falls are particularly impressive during spring runoff.

#2 Palouse Falls — 198 ft (60 m)

Palouse Falls, Washington’s official state waterfall, is a dramatic 198-foot plunge into a churning bowl-shaped canyon carved by Ice Age floods over 13,000 years ago. The falls are located in the striking high-desert landscape of southeastern Washington, far removed from the state’s more typical forested scenery.

The Palouse River cascades over dark columnar basalt cliffs before plunging into the gorge. The falls are particularly spectacular in spring and early summer when water volume is highest, but the dramatic basalt canyon and unique desert landscape make this a year-round destination. The 94-acre state park features viewing platforms, trails, and picnic areas.

#3 Wallace Falls — 260 ft (79 m)

Wallace Falls is one of the most popular and photogenic waterfalls in the Puget Sound region. This impressive triple-drop cascade plunges 260 feet in a thunderous display through a lush old-growth forest setting. The falls are located in Wallace Falls State Park, approximately 60 miles north of Seattle.

The hike to the base of the falls follows a well-maintained trail through dense evergreen forest, crossing several streams before emerging at a viewing platform directly below the cascading water. The upper falls are also visible from the main road, offering a convenient stop for casual visitors.

#4 Narada Falls — 185 ft (56 m)

Narada Falls is a stunning 185-foot double-cascade set against the backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Rainier. Located along the White River Road in Mount Rainier National Park, this accessible waterfall is one of the most photographed in the state.

The falls can be viewed from a roadside pullout with a short, paved trail leading to a platform directly across from the cascade. The surrounding landscape features wildflower meadows in spring and summer, and the powerful water flow during snowmelt season creates a spectacular display.

#5 Sol Duc Falls — 148 ft (45 m)

Sol Duc Falls is a majestic triple-tiered cascade nestled deep within the temperate rainforest of Olympic National Park. This beautiful 148-foot falls tumbles through vibrant green moss and ferns, creating an almost mystical atmosphere in the old-growth forest setting.

The hike to the falls is one of the most popular in Olympic National Park — just 0.8 miles round-trip on a relatively easy trail. The final viewing platform puts you directly beneath the thundering cascade, surrounded by towering cedars and Douglas firs. The nearby Sol Duc Hot Springs provides a perfect post-hike relaxation option.

#6 Panther Creek Falls — 130 ft (40 m)

Panther Creek Falls is a stunning 130-foot waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge area of Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This powerful cascade plunges through a forested gorge and is one of the most beautiful and frequently visited waterfalls on Washington’s side of the Columbia Gorge.

The hike to Panther Creek Falls winds through a lush forest of Douglas fir and western red cedar, crossing the creek multiple times before reaching the base of the falls. The trail offers several opportunities to view the cascade from different angles. The falls are especially impressive during the spring runoff when water volume is at its peak.

#7 Spokane Falls — 68 ft (21 m)

Spokane Falls is a unique urban waterfall that literally shaped the development of the city of Spokane. This 68-foot cascade on the Spokane River is one of the few major waterfalls located within a large metropolitan area. The falls were a crucial power source for the city’s early industrial development and remain a central feature of downtown Spokane.

The falls are easily accessible via multiple viewing platforms, bridges, and the surrounding Riverside State Park. The nearby Looff Carousel, Spokane River Park, and the historic downtown district make this a wonderful combination of natural wonder and urban exploration. The falls are illuminated at night, creating a stunning evening spectacle.

#8 Twin Falls — 110 ft (34 m)

This distinctive double-cascade drops 110 feet through a dramatic rock formation surrounded by lush forest and alpine meadows. A short drive and a short hike makes this one very popular. Great year round hike.

#9 Wahclella Falls — 272 ft (83 m)

Wahclella Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. This beautiful 272-foot cascade is famous for the natural basalt arch that frames the falling water, making it one of the most photographed waterfalls in the entire region.

Located along the Historic Columbia River Highway, the short trail to Wahclella Falls winds through a lush forest setting before opening to a spectacular view of the falls. The falls are part of the broader Columbia Gorge waterfall corridor, which includes several other spectacular cascades.

Quick Reference

Planning Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Peak water flow from snowmelt — most spectacular views
• Summer (July–September): Best hiking conditions, longest daylight
• Fall (October–November): Fewer crowds, autumn colors
• Winter: Some falls partially frozen; check trail conditions

Notable Mentions

Other remarkable Washington waterfalls worth visiting include:

• Bridal Veil Falls — I-90 corridor, Gifford Pinchot National Forest
• Myrtle Falls — Mount Rainier National Park
• Falls Creek Falls — Gifford Pinchot National Forest (335 ft)
• Marymere Falls — Olympic National Park (near Lake Crescent)
• Ramona Falls — Mount Rainier National Park

Honorable Mentions

Waterfalls too remote or inaccessible for casual foot access:

• Colonial Creek Falls (2,568 ft) — Tallest waterfall in the continental U.S., but only viewable from a distance via the Ross Dam Trail or Colonial Creek Campground; not reachable on foot at its base.

Research compiled from multiple sources including Northwest Waterfall Survey, Washington State Parks, National Park Service, and regional travel guides. Last updated July 2026.