Day Trips from Tacoma
← All Tacoma day tripsDay Trips from Tacoma: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Tacoma, WA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
11 waterfalls near Tacoma
Edith Gorge Falls
Ashford, WA 98304
Just 1 hr 56 min from Tacoma, 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.
Wallace Falls State Park
Gold Bar, WA 98251
Just 1 hr 27 min from Tacoma, 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.
Green River Gorge Springs
Enumclaw, WA 98022
Just 43 min from Tacoma, rated 4.8 stars by 251 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Moulton Falls Regional Park
Yacolt, WA 98675
Just 2 hrs 21 min from Tacoma, 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 1 min from Tacoma, 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 49 min from Tacoma, 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.
Multnomah Falls Recreation Area
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 2 hrs 43 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars by 1,627 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.
Dougan Falls
Washougal, WA 98671
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Tacoma, rated 4.7 stars by 220 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.
Green River Gorge Conservation Area
Black Diamond, WA 98010
Just 38 min from Tacoma, 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.
Naked Falls
WA 98648, USA
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Tacoma, rated 4.5 stars by 215 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Pothole Falls
Camas, WA 98607
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Tacoma, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Tacoma
What are the best waterfalls near Tacoma, WA?
The best waterfalls near Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
Some waterfalls near Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
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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