Snoqualmie Falls Higher Observation Deck — Attraction in Snoqualmie

This is the place where the iconic views of the waterfall can be seen. Google maps displays images from this location at the lower falls info page. There are two parking lots. The one on the south side of the road is a pay lot and is adjacent to the paths to the viewing platform. A free lot is across the street and is connected to the viewing area by a pedestrian bridge over the road. The path from the pay lot is relatively short to the platform with a number of good views along the path to the platform. Towards the west side of the visitor area there is a half mile trail down the hill to the lower falls view point. It is an easy trail well maintained but the trip back up can be a bit tiring for small children and those unused to exercise. One can choose not to go down the trail and continue around the park area that features a number of picnic tables.

Next to the parking lot is a visitor center with an exhibit explaining the history of the region and the local tribe on whose land the park and lodge sit. There is a good explanation of tribal history and culture. The visitor center also features an ice cream bar and a gift shop. Next to the gift shop are the restrooms. Overall, everything is very well laid out and easy to...

Snoqualmie Falls is one of those places that completely takes your breath away. The observation deck is super easy to get to — paved paths, lots of space, and incredible views without a long hike. It’s the kind of spot that invites you to pause and just take it all in.

As an artist, I had the chance to paint live at the Falls recently, and I can honestly say it was one of the most powerful locations I’ve ever experienced. The mist, the thunder of the water, the energy in the air — it’s all alive.

The Falls — called Sdəxʷhə́b in Lushootseed — are sacred to the Snoqualmie people. It’s believed to be the place where life and spirit begin, where prayers rise in the mist to the Creator. That deeper meaning isn’t just something you read on a sign — you can feel it the moment you’re there.

After the event, someone who had been watching me paint reached out and said, “You froze that moment in time. It felt like something eternal.” And honestly, I think that’s exactly what this place does — it lingers with you.

Whether you’re just passing through or looking for a quiet, powerful stop in Washington, I can’t...

We stopped by on Wednesday around 6pm and there was plenty of parking but there were many people as well on the deck.

I understand that it’s very popular because it’s close to Seattle so expect some crowds.

We checked the waterfall from Higher deck and hiked to the lower deck. It’s not exactly a hike just a 15min walk with small elevation.

4 stars because there are better waterfalls...