About Wallace Falls

Wallace Falls State Park in Snohomish County delivers one of the finest waterfall hiking experiences in the Puget Sound region. The trail climbs 1,200 feet alongside the Wallace River to a series of three distinct waterfalls — the Lower Falls, the dramatic 265-foot Middle Falls, and the Upper Falls — with views of the Skykomish Valley and the surrounding Cascades opening up at the higher viewpoints.

The park is popular but the trail is well-maintained and the crowds disperse naturally — the Lower Falls sees most visitors, the Middle Falls sees fewer, and the Upper Falls is reached only by the committed. The reward for reaching the top is both the falls and a panoramic valley view that makes the 1,200-foot climb worthwhile.

Trail Highlights

• Three distinct waterfalls: Lower, Middle (265 ft), and Upper Falls
• 265-foot Middle Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in western Washington
• Skykomish Valley panoramic views from the upper trail
• Well-maintained Snohomish County trail accessible year-round
• Popular but the upper trail sections offer solitude away from the crowds

Trail Description

From the Wallace Falls State Park trailhead in Gold Bar, follow the trail up the Wallace River. The lower trail follows an old railroad grade before climbing more steeply toward the river gorge.

Lower Falls (1.5 miles) is a modest but pretty 20-foot cascade. Continue steeply to the Middle Falls at 2.5 miles — the 265-foot main event, viewable from a platform. Push on to the Upper Falls (3 miles) for the valley panorama. Return via the same trail.

Tips & What to Bring

• A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking
• The trail to the Upper Falls is steep and requires solid hiking boots
• Morning visits (before 9am) are best for avoiding weekend crowds at Lower Falls
• The upper viewpoints offer views of Index and the Sultan River Valley — bring binoculars
• Year-round accessibility makes this an excellent winter waterfall hike

Getting There

From Gold Bar, WA, take US-2 East to First Street. Turn left on First Street and follow signs for Wallace Falls State Park. The trailhead is at the end of Wallace Lake Road. GPS: 47.8683, -121.6817.