> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://the-cj-willette.ghost.io/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Franklin Falls โ€“ Snoqualmie Pass - URL: https://the-cj-willette.ghost.io/franklin-falls-snoqualmie-pass/ - Published: 2026-09-01T19:39:56.000Z - Updated: 2026-09-01T19:48:08.000Z - Description: A relatively easy 2-mile hike near Snoqualmie Pass leading through a beautiful forest to the impressive multi-tiered Franklin Falls. - Author: Cj Willette - Tags: Want-To-Go, Waterfalls, Hiking, Snoqualmie Pass, Day Trips, Visited, Short Hikes **๐Ÿ“ Location:** Snoqualmie Pass, Washington **๐Ÿ—บ Directions:** **๐Ÿ“‚ Type:** Waterfall / Hike --- ## Why It's On Our List Franklin Falls is one of those Washington waterfalls that delivers a lot without requiring an all-day hike. Located just off I-90 near Snoqualmie Pass, it's an easy hike through a beautiful forest that ends at an impressive waterfall. The hike is approximately **2 miles round trip with about 400 feet of elevation gain** and is rated easy by the Washington Trails Association. --- ## ๐ŸŒŠ The Falls Franklin Falls is actually a three-tiered waterfall with a total drop of about 135 feet. From the trail, however, you see the final and largest drop, which is approximately 70 feet. The falls are tucked beneath the large I-90 viaducts, creating an unusual combination of wilderness and highway infrastructure. When the water is flowing strongly, the final approach provides an impressive viewโ€”and you can expect plenty of spray near the base. --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/cd/2e/cd2e725d-886e-4858-bcea-e4cbf0c282b7/content/images/2026/09/IMG_2548.jpeg) --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/cd/2e/cd2e725d-886e-4858-bcea-e4cbf0c282b7/content/images/2026/09/DSC04922.jpeg) --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/cd/2e/cd2e725d-886e-4858-bcea-e4cbf0c282b7/content/images/2026/09/IMG_2560.jpeg) --- ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/cd/2e/cd2e725d-886e-4858-bcea-e4cbf0c282b7/content/images/2026/09/DSC04906.jpeg) ## ๐Ÿฅพ The Hike The trail winds through a thick canopy of conifers and follows the creek toward the falls. There are several stairs and a gentle, steady incline, making this a good choice for a relatively easy outing. WTA also notes that trail improvements have included bridges, rock steps, and other work to make the route more accessible. There is a viewpoint before the falls, but getting closer requires following a narrower section of trail along the rocks. **Be careful here.** The rocks can be wet and slippery, particularly when the falls are flowing heavily. --- ## ๐Ÿ’ฆ Best Time to Visit The falls flow year-round, but WTA notes that the strongest flows are generally between **April and July**. Spring and early summer should provide the most impressive waterfall experience. Winter brings a completely different look, with ice and icicles forming around the falls. --- ## โš ๏ธ Winter Warning Franklin Falls can be especially beautiful in winter, but this is not simply a winter version of the summer hike. **There is significant avalanche danger near the falls.** The waterfall basin sits at the bottom of an avalanche chute, and hikers are strongly discouraged from entering the area around the splash pool when icy conditions are present. If visiting in winter, check current conditions and avalanche forecasts before heading out. --- ## ๐Ÿš— Getting There From Seattle, take I-90 east toward Snoqualmie Pass and use **Exit 47 โ€“ Denny Creek/Tinkham Road**. The trailhead is accessed via Forest Road 58, with several parking areas near the trail. WTA reports that the parking areas can accommodate approximately 170 vehicles and that roadside parking is not permitted. --- ## ๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Parking A **Northwest Forest Pass or Sno-Parks Permit** is required, depending on the season. Because Franklin Falls is an extremely popular hike, parking can fill quickly. Plan accordingly, particularly on weekends and during good weather. --- ## ๐Ÿ’ก A Few Things to Know - Wear shoes with good traction. - Expect wet and slippery rocks near the falls. - Bring rain gear if you want to get closeโ€”the spray can be substantial. - Pack everything out; there are no garbage receptacles at the trailhead. - Check conditions before leaving, especially during winter. - Cell service can be unreliable, so having directions available offline is a good idea. --- ## ๐ŸŒฒ Make It Part of a Snoqualmie Pass Day Trip Franklin Falls is close enough to several other attractions along the I-90 corridor that it can easily become part of a larger day trip. You could combine it with other stops around Snoqualmie Pass, grab lunch along the way, and make a day of exploring the area rather than treating Franklin Falls as the only destination. --- ## ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Who This Is For - Waterfall lovers - Casual hikers - Families - Couples - Seattle-area day trippers - Anyone looking for a rewarding hike without committing to a full day on the trail --- ## Trail Information [Washington Trails Association โ€“ Franklin Falls](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/franklin-falls?utm%5Fsource=chatgpt.com) ---