It has been a dozen years since Sandra and I hiked Franklin Falls. I had forgoten how beautiful it is to see in person. My prior memories anchored more on the difficulty in finding parking at the trailhead. That was before a large parking lot was added with additional restroom facilities. Still, I imagine this kid friendly hike at around 2 miles roundtrip draws weekend crowds beyond the capacity even this new parking lot can support.
The hike was pleasant with only a small increase in elevation. I still find myself breathing heavy which has more to do on the work I need to do than the difficulty of the trail. At the waterfall itself groups lingered for a mid-hike snack while watching the falls.
Franklin Falls is as good a reason as any to miss work a day and get outside, or even half a day.
Hiking Franklin Falls at Snoqualmie Pass
Nestled within the lush forests of Snoqualmie Pass in Washington State, the hike to Franklin Falls is a delightful adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with easy accessibility. This family-friendly trail offers hikers an immersive experience through the verdant wilderness, culminating in the breathtaking sight of Franklin Falls cascading down a rocky cliff.
Chatgpt seems to think everything east of the Cascasdes is nestled.
Trail Overview
Distance: Approximately 2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 400 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Opinions vary on this one but no more than Moderate.
Trailhead: The trailhead for Franklin Falls is located just off of Forest Road 58, also known as Denny Creek Road. Ample parking is available, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.
The Hike
The trail to Franklin Falls is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Here's a breakdown of the hiking experience:
First Leg: Forest Canopy
The hike begins with a gentle ascent through a dense forest of towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The path is shaded and cool, with the soothing sounds of the South Fork Snoqualmie River accompanying you along the way. The forest floor is carpeted with ferns and mosses, adding to the lush, green ambiance.
Midway: Bridges and Creeks
As you continue, the trail winds alongside Denny Creek, crossing a couple of charming wooden bridges. These crossings provide picturesque views of the creek and are perfect spots for taking photos or simply pausing to enjoy the tranquility of the flowing water.
Final Stretch: Approaching the Falls
The final stretch of the trail involves a slight descent as you approach the falls. Here, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation for the sight ahead. The trail narrows slightly and becomes a bit rockier, but it remains manageable for most hikers.
Franklin Falls
Upon reaching Franklin Falls, you are greeted with the awe-inspiring view of water tumbling 70 feet down a rocky cliff into a clear, shallow pool below. The falls are especially impressive in the spring and early summer when snowmelt from the surrounding mountains feeds the flow, creating a powerful cascade.
The area around the falls is relatively spacious, with plenty of room to sit and enjoy a picnic, take photographs, or simply bask in the beauty of the natural surroundings. The pool at the base of the falls is shallow and inviting, offering a refreshing spot to wade in and cool off on a warm day.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring and Summer: These seasons are the best times to visit Franklin Falls. The trail is accessible, the forest is lush, and the waterfall is at its most vigorous due to snowmelt.
Fall: Autumn brings a beautiful array of fall foliage, making the hike especially scenic. However, the flow of the falls may be reduced compared to spring and summer.
Winter: The trail to Franklin Falls can be icy and treacherous in the winter. While the falls themselves can be spectacular when partially frozen, hikers should exercise extreme caution or consider other safer alternatives during this time.
I've never been able to get close in winter, nor early spring for that matter as the roads will be covered in snow. I recommend looking for trip reports on AllTrails or wta.org to see if anyone has visited recently before making the trek during those seasons.
Tips for a Great Hike
Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, especially for the rocky sections near the falls.
Sandals and Crocs were more common than hiking boots on this trail. Of course, these folks were much younger than me. I did not second guess my decision to wear hiking boots as I tripped up a few times on the many rocks and exposed roots along the trail.
Water: Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days, to stay hydrated.
Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and respecting the natural environment.
Safety: Be cautious around the falls, as the rocks can be slippery, and avoid climbing on unstable surfaces.
Conclusion
Hiking to Franklin Falls is a rewarding and accessible adventure for nature enthusiasts of all ages. The trail offers a delightful mix of forest scenery, creekside views, and the grand finale of a stunning waterfall. Whether you're looking for a family outing, a peaceful retreat into nature, or a scenic photo opportunity, Franklin Falls at Snoqualmie Pass provides a memorable and enjoyable hiking experience.
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