Hiking Wallace Falls

The Trail:
There's a lot of foot traffic at Wallace Falls, because it's fun for all ages! Just don't expect privacy or a nice quiet hike, there's bound to be people in front and back, but it's a beautiful trail and it's consistently gorgeous as you wind your way along the Wallace River and approach the nine dazzling falls.

There's a moderate gain with a series of switchbacks in the middle, but the views are worth it. You can always stop at the Lower and Middle Falls if you don't want to go all the way to the top. The Middle Falls overlook a panoramic view of the Skykomish River Valley with the Olympics in the distance. The trail is nicely taken care of the whole way.

To begin, find the trailhead just off the parking lot, to the right of the info kiosk and the restrooms. You follow under some power lines and then continue left. The main trail splits to the right at the half-mile marker by the distinguished wooden gate which leads to the Woody Trail. The left trail does lead to Wallace Lake, however, and is a good mountain bike trail if you're interested.

From there, you trace the Wallace River and eventually you will break from the river and encounter the trail’s first steep climb. Continue up, encountering paths for the Amphitheater and the Railroad Grade Trail, but stay on the Woody Trail until you reach the Picnic area at the Lower Falls, just two miles from the trailhead.

You can end your hike at Middle Falls - it is a sweat inducing half-mile of switchbacks that leads to the Upper Falls. The Middle Falls are just as good as the top falls.