Outdoor recreation opportunities abound in our region, and we’re fortunate to have incredible access to nature. Within easy reach are many hiking trails leading through verdant forests, along rushing rivers, to dramatic waterfalls, hidden lakes and dramatic vistas atop craggy peaks.
Wallace Falls, located within Wallace Falls State Park, is a good choice for a moderate hike that can be done year-round. You’ll reach the trailhead off Highway 2, just northeast of the town of Gold Bar, and soon find yourself amid a lush paradise.
Though there’s some elevation gain with this hike, your efforts will be well-rewarded with views of a stunning, three-tiered waterfall, the Skykomish River and the distant Olympic Mountains. And oh, the green! Picture trees dripping with moss and ferns on steroids.
The hike offers set junctures at the Lower, Middle and Upper Falls, allowing you to determine your distance – and amount of effort.
One-way, the mileage for the Lower Falls is 1.8 with 500 feet of elevation; Middle, 2.1 with 800 feet of elevation; and Upper, 2.75 with a total 1200 feet of elevation. Each point provides a different view of the falls, which makes it interesting if you decide to experience the full range of options.
After starting in a wide-open area, the trail narrows and eventually turns to the left, where hikers are met with an apropos Wordsworth quote carved into a signpost. Its message serves as a reminder that we can learn much from nature.
You’ll continue along the river and then take a fork to the right to follow the Woody Trail. The path eventually begins to climb towards the Lower Falls for your first view. A sheltered picnic area makes for a nice place to grab a snack.
About another half a mile you’ll come to Middle Falls, where the views are breathtakingly enhanced. This spot is often considered the best place to see the falls in all their glory. If the sun’s out, you might be treated to a rainbow or two, upping the ante for that magical, pinch-me moment. Many hikers choose to turn around here, but if you’re game to head on to Upper Falls, prepare for the steepest section of the trail.
As you trek the seemingly endless stair climber, navigating the various switchbacks, you’ll gain not only elevation but—with fewer people—more solitude. Before getting to the top, make sure to take the little path to the right for a prime overlook of the Skykomish River Valley and, if it’s clear, the Olympics on the horizon.
Take a deep breath and give yourself a congratulatory pat on the back when you reach Upper Falls. Then revel in the mesmerizing scene and stand in awe of the power of water as it drops from a height of 265 feet.
As this is the Northwest, sun is not a guarantee. But rest assured, the falls and its surrounds are equally as impressive when skies are gray. And the mist gives it a moody feel, with a primordial cast to the scene.
Wallace Falls is one of several hikes in the state park. Push on from Upper Falls to Wallace and Jay Lakes, or return another day to explore more of this hiker’s utopia. ❖
