Wallace Falls

Wallace Falls is a popular and stunning waterfall located in Wallace Falls State Park, about an hour's drive northeast of Seattle, Washington.

Getting There:

1. From Seattle: Take I-5 North.
2. Exit 210: Take the Monroe/Snohomish exit (Highway 522).
3. Head East: Head east on Highway 522 towards Monroe.
4. Turn Right: In Monroe, turn right onto Highway 2.
5. Turn Left: After about 12 miles on Highway 2, turn left onto Reiter Road. There will be signs for Wallace Falls State Park.
6. Park Entrance: Follow Reiter Road for about 3 miles to the park entrance and parking lot.

The Hike:

There are three viewpoints for Wallace Falls: Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. The trail to the falls is well-maintained but can be strenuous, especially the climb to the Upper Falls.

1. Trailhead: From the parking lot, the trail begins near the ranger station.
2. Lower Falls: The trail to the Lower Falls is the easiest and shortest, about a mile with minimal elevation gain. It's a great option for families with young children or those looking for a shorter hike.
3. Middle Falls: The trail to the Middle Falls is about 1.5 miles from the trailhead and involves a moderate climb. This section has some switchbacks and can be more challenging than the Lower Falls trail.
4. Upper Falls: The trail to the Upper Falls is the most challenging, approximately 2.8 miles roundtrip from the trailhead. The climb is steep and strenuous, with many switchbacks and stairs. The views from the top, however, are spectacular and well worth the effort for many hikers.

Trail Conditions:

• The trail is generally well-maintained, but can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season.
• There are some steep sections and stairs, particularly on the trail to the Upper Falls.
• The trail is forested, providing shade for much of the hike.
• Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as it can change quickly in the mountains.

Wallace Falls:

• Wallace Falls is comprised of three distinct sections: Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls.
• The Lower Falls is the smallest of the three but still impressive.
• The Middle Falls is the most popular viewpoint, offering a fantastic view of the cascading water.
• The Upper Falls is the tallest and most dramatic, with a long, powerful drop.

Things to Note:

• The parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a spot.
• There are restrooms at the trailhead.
• Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash.
• Be sure to bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the Upper Falls.
• Wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can be slippery.
• Check the weather forecast before you go.
• Pack out everything you pack in.

Enjoy your hike to Wallace Falls!