Some beautiful late summer weather meant it was a great day for a trip to Snoqualmie Falls (map). Only about 30 minutes from downtown Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls makes for a great family destination to get out of town, if only for a few hours.

We began our adventure at the top of the falls. There are a number of shaded tables and beautiful lawns, so it makes for an ideal picnic. There was plenty of parking on the other side of the highway, even on this busy day. It was a bit of a walk, but not too much trouble. The picture to the right was taken from an overlook at the top. In the spring, the falls cover the width of the opening due to the spring runoff. However, even the lower water levels of late summer make for a beautiful view.

After the picnic, we took a hike down to the bottom. The hike is pretty easy. Our three year old was able to make it down without being carried. The view from the bottom is once again breathtaking, though most ended up leaving the marked trails to get a closer look. For those who don’t want to make the hike, it is possible to drive most of the way to the bottom. From the top of the falls, continue west on 202 to the next left turn and follow it back to the parking lot.

To get to Snoqualmie Falls, take 90 east to Hwy 18. Head north on Hwy 18 to 202 and turn left to head west to the falls.