Alpine Falls

Washington

Snoqualmie National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

momo go CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Alpine Falls

Alpine Falls is a compact, photogenic 25-foot cascade tucked into the forested slopes of Washington’s Cascade Range. A popular stop for travelers and day-hikers, the falls sit within the Snoqualmie National Forest and are managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offering a quick, scenic reward framed by mature evergreens and moss-covered rock. Access to the falls is straightforward: the U.S. Forest Service lists the Deception Falls Trail (Trail #1078) as the official access route. That trail includes a very short paved approach to a viewing area, while a longer outing in the same vicinity is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating for hikers wanting more time on the trail.

Height: 25 feet

USFS Trail

DECEPTION FALLS #1078

Trail Class

Fully Developed

Surface

Ac Asphalt

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

0.06 mi

Trail Description

The immediate access to Alpine Falls follows USFS Deception Falls Trail #1078 and includes a short paved segment (surface: AC - ASPHALT) recorded at approximately 0.06 GIS miles. The USFS notes a typical grade of 12–20% for this segment and assigns a trail class of 5 for the listed section. Beyond the short paved approach, the broader route to explore the area is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Overall difficulty is rated moderate; the falls themselves drop about 25 feet and are reached via the short paved viewing stretch, while the full 2.4-mile hike provides additional trail time and elevation for hikers seeking a longer outing.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a serene and scenic waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area is peaceful, and the short trail makes it an ideal stop for a quick nature break.

Accessibility

The short trail to the falls is relatively flat and may be accessible for those with limited mobility, but it is not officially ADA-compliant.

Seasonal Closures

The falls are accessible year-round, but heavy snow in winter may limit access to the parking area.

Safety Information

The trail may be slippery near the falls due to mist and wet rocks. Exercise caution and stay on designated paths. In winter, check road conditions before traveling.

Location & Access

Getting There

Alpine Falls is located off Highway 2 near Stevens Pass. From the highway, there is a short access road leading to a small parking area near the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area near the falls, but it may fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Elevation

1394 feet above sea level

Coordinates

47.717054° N, -121.225934° W

Land Management

Snoqualmie National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be wet or muddy near the falls.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Money Creek Campground

8.5 miles away · 24 sites

Reservable

Overview Situated on the banks of the South Fork Skykomish River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Money Creek campground offers some of the most stunning scenery in the northern Cascade Range in Washington. Scattered beneath a towering canopy of old-growth forest, the sites in this campground are widely spaced and several are at the river's edge, making it an ideal setting for visitors wanting to camp in a private, rustic setting.Recreation In addition to being a prime location for hiking

Book on Recreation.gov