Day Trips from Seattle
← All Seattle day tripsDay Trips from Seattle: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Seattle, WA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
9 waterfalls near Seattle
Edith Gorge Falls
Ashford, WA 98304
Just 2 hrs 25 min from Seattle, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Myrtle Falls
WA 98304, USA
Just 2 hrs 25 min from Seattle, rated 4.8 stars by 1,454 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Wallace Falls State Park
Gold Bar, WA 98251
Just 1 hr 1 min from Seattle, rated 4.8 stars by 2,602 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Moulton Falls Regional Park
Yacolt, WA 98675
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Seattle, rated 4.8 stars by 1,575 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Deschutes Falls Park
Yelm, WA 98597
Just 1 hr 29 min from Seattle, rated 4.7 stars by 223 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gorge Overlook Trail
WA 98283, USA
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Seattle, rated 4.7 stars by 851 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Green River Gorge Conservation Area
Black Diamond, WA 98010
Just 49 min from Seattle, rated 4.6 stars by 135 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pothole Falls
Camas, WA 98607
Just 2 hrs 48 min from Seattle, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rainbow Falls State Park
Chehalis, WA 98532
Just 1 hr 46 min from Seattle, rated 4.3 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Seattle
What are the best waterfalls near Seattle, WA?
The best waterfalls near Seattle range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Seattle?
Some waterfalls near Seattle have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Seattle?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Seattle are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Seattle?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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