15 Thrilling Things to Do in Snoqualmie, Washington

When looking into my Washington state road trip, I was looking for a place to spend a few days near Seattle. Upon my research, I came across so many wonderful things to do in Snoqualmie. No matter what type of getaway you are looking for, Snoqualmie has you covered. From the great outdoors to wining and dining to fun with kids, Snoqualmie will keep you entertained for days.

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How to Get Here

Snoqualmie is located about 30 miles east of downtown Seattle, which makes it the perfect getaway from the city. To get to Snoqualmie from Seattle, you will need to take I-90 east to WA-18 E. Take the exit and turn left on Snoqualmie Parkway. Snoqualmie Parkway dead ends into Railroad Avenue. Turn left to get to Snoqualmie Falls, and turn right to get to downtown Snoqualmie.

When to Visit

Anytime of the year is a good time to visit Snoqualmie. The weather is typical for the Seattle area with average temperatures in the summer months in the 70s and average temperatures in the winter months in the low 40s. Depending on what activity you are planning on doing in Snoqualmie, the time of year you should visit is different. For example, the waterfalls are at their fullest in the Spring and early Summer when the snow is melting. Many of the sights and hikes get pretty crowded on the weekends when the people of Seattle go on their weekend getaways. So if you can visit during weekdays, your crowd levels will be substantially smaller.

Where to Stay

You have a few options if you want to stay overnight or longer in Snoqualmie. For the ultimate luxury hotel, stay at Salish Lodge & Spa. The Salish Lodge is located on Snoqualmie Falls and features a dining room, a spa, and more. A more budget-friendly option is to stay at the Snoqualmie Inn by Hotel America. This is where I stayed, and it was very nice and business oriented. Room rates include a decent breakfast that includes warm food, pastries, waffles, and more.

What to Pack

Bug spray – I usually list water as the first thing to pack. But if you want to keep your sanity, bug spray is an absolute must-have essential!
Water – Whether you use a hydration backpack or carry bottled water, make sure to pack plenty of water when outdoors.
Hiking shoes/boots – I really prefer hiking in these hiking shoes. Here are the men‘s version of the hiking shoes I love.
Hiking socks – The best way to prevent blisters is by keeping your feet dry. Moisture-wicking socks are the best way to do that.
Backpack – A backpack is a necessity when hiking to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. that you may need on your hikes.
Rain jacket – You never know when a storm will pass through so be ready with some men’s or women’s raingear.
Leggings – These leggings are perfect for hiking and also cute enough to wear around town.
Cute Outift – If you do not like wearing leggings, here is another super cute shirt and pants combo.

Things to Do in Snoqualmie Map

Map provided by Wanderlog, a road trip planner app on iOS and Android

1. Marvel at the Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls is the most popular things to do in Snoqualmie, and it plunges 268 feet into the Snoqualmie River. The Snoqualmie Indian Tribe believed the falls were where the first woman and first man were created by Moon the Transformer, and the mists of the falls carried prayers up to the Creator.

To see the waterfall, you can park near the gift shop for $7 per vehicle or park across Railroad Avenue in the free lot. Views of Snoqualmie Falls from the top can be seen just a short walk from the parking area. For views from the lower viewpoint, you will need to walk a semi-steep path that is 1.6 miles roundtrip. If you do not wish to make the walk, there is a parking lot at the lower falls viewpoint.

2. Relax at Salish Lodge & Spa

Even if you are not planning to stay the night at the Salish Lodge, that does not mean you can’t enjoy the other charms of the hotel. Get pampered at the spa with a tranquil massage or a calming facial. While you are in the hotel, grab a bite to eat and a cocktail at The Lounge at The Attic where you can get views of the waterfall.

3. Discover History at the Northwest Railway Museum

Visit the historic depot at the Northwest Railway Museum and wander around the old train engines, cars, and caboose. There is no admission to visit the depot and grounds. If you want to visit the Train Shed Exhibit Hall, admission is $10 (age 13+) and $2 for children. While you are visiting, take a 5.5-mile train ride on the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad. Train tickets are $20 (age 13+), $16 for seniors, and $10 for children.

4. Taste a Flight of Wine at Sigello Cellars

Located in historic downtown, tasting wine at Sigello Cellars is a must things to do in Snoqualmie. Depending on the weather, you can sit inside or outside on their dog-friendly patio. Check out their flights of wine before deciding on a bottle to take home with you. And if you are feeling a little famished, try a charcuterie board or sandwich.

5. Have a Beer at Snoqualmie Falls Brewery

If you exit the back of Sigello Cellars at the patio, turn left on Falls Avenue for a short walk to Snoqualmie Falls Brewery. This independent craft brewery sells seasonals and specialties beer in addition to their traditional beer options. You can also get canned beer or kegs to go. Enjoy beer and food on their large recently remodeled patio.

6. Pick a Bouquet of Lavender

One of my favorite things to do in Snoqualmie was pick my own lavender at Snofalls Lavender Farm. For only $5, you can pick a bundle of lavender, and the farm provides you with scissors and instructions. The farm is open from 10am – 6pm while the lavender is blooming. Typically, lavender blooms from July through August, but it is best to contact Snofalls Lavender to ask if the lavender is blooming before you arrive.

7. Feel the Spray of Franklin Falls

Franklin Falls is an easy hike in Washington and a top things to do in Snoqualmie. The trail is a steady 1-mile uphill climb most of the way to the waterfall that follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River. Once you reach the falls, the trail becomes slick, wet stairs that have been gouged out of the rock cliffs. Watch your step as this part of the trail is slippery! Traverse the riverbed and downed trees to get close enough to feel the spray from Franklin Falls. A day pass is $5 per vehicle and must be paid electronically. If you have an America the Beautiful National Park Pass, you do not have to pay the $5 fee.

8. Hike to the Top of a Mountain

One of the more strenuous things to do in Snoqualmie is climb to the top of a mountain for views of the Snoqualmie Valley. Mount Si, Little Si, and Rattlesnake Ledge are three possible hikes that are listed as 7.5 miles, 3.6 miles, and 5.3 miles in length, respectively. All three hikes are listed as moderately difficult, so be prepared with water and proper attire before you take off on these trails.

9. Explore Twin Falls

This pair of waterfalls is part of Olallie State Park and starts off with an easy walk along South Fork Snoqualmie River. After the trail begins its first steep incline via switchbacks, be prepared for incline walking most of the rest of the trail. About a mile into the hike, the trail forks with the path to the Upper Twin Falls to the left and the Lower Twin Falls to the right. I recommend going left to the Upper Twin Falls first and stop by Lower Twin Falls on your back for the grand finale. A day pass for Olallie State Park is $10 per vehicle or no additional cost with a displayed Discover Pass.

10. Have a Slice of Pie at Twede’s Café

Located in the nearby town of North Bend, Twede’s Café is a must things to do in Snoqualmie if you like good diner food. While the food is great and the atmosphere transports you to another time, the pie is out of this world. Your options are cherry, boysenberry, apple, chocolate cream, coconut cream, and banana cream. So yummy!

11. Meander Downtown North Bend

While you are in the North Bend area enjoying some pie, make sure to walk around the rest of the downtown area. Grab a treat at North Bend Bakery, drink a beer at Volition Brewing Company, and buy a souvenir at Birches Habitat gift shop. Visit the Snoqualmie Valley Historical Museum and learn about the rich heritage and historic sites and landmarks of the area.

12. Shop Good Deals at the North Bend Premium Outlets

The North Bend Premium Outlets is a top things to do in Snoqualmie if you are looking for good deals on brand name products. With stores like Coach, Gap, Eddie Bauer, Nike and many more, you can expand your wardrobe and accessories or complete your kids’ back-to-school clothes-buying with one-stop shopping. My favorite store when I visited was the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory where I loaded up on bear claws and truffles. Yummm…

13. Enjoy Fresh Produce

Whether you decide to pick your own fruit and berries at U-Pick Farms or buy them from roadside vendors, load up on produce from these local farms. Remlinger Farms, Harvold Berry Farm, and Bybee Farms are just a few of the farms where you can pick your own fruits and berries. This is also a fun and educational experience for kids. You have to get some Rainier cherries while you are in Washington; they are my favorite!

14. Try your Luck at Snoqualmie Casino

Are you feeling lucky? If so, try your luck at the Snoqualmie Casino. This top things to do in Snoqualmie is the closest casino to Seattle and houses 1700 slot games, over 50 gaming tables, live entertainment, and fine dining. Unfortunately, the casino does not have a hotel as part of its complex.

15. Scout Other Nearby Hikes

Barclay Lake, Wallace Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls are three other trails you can hike that are under an hour and a half drive from Snoqualmie. Barclay Lake is an easy 4.3 mile hike to a pristine lake with Baring Mountain serving as a backdrop. Wallace Falls, located in Wallace Falls State Park, is a 5-mile moderately difficult hike that leads you to 3 epic waterfalls on the Wallace River. Lastly, Bridal Veil Falls is a 100-foot waterfall that spills over a rocky edge from Lake Serene. The hike to this waterfall is a short but moderately strenuous 3.7 miles. These are not the only hikes within a short drive from Snoqualmie, but they are the ones I had time to do. I cannot wait to go back and explore more of this area!