The Best State Parks in Washington with Stunning Waterfalls!

Washington State is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest, and many of them are located within the state’s beautiful state parks. From powerful cascades to tranquil streams, these waterfalls offer a stunning natural backdrop for outdoor adventures.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top state parks in Washington with waterfalls, highlighting the most picturesque falls that attract visitors year-round. Whether you’re a local nature enthusiast or a traveler looking for a memorable experience, these parks are must-visit destinations for waterfall lovers.

With over 100 state parks in Washington to choose from, this list will help you narrow down your options for your next adventure. Discover scenic hikes, relaxing views, and awe-inspiring waterfalls in Washington’s top state parks—perfect for your next outdoor escape!

Beautiful Waterfalls in Washington’s State Parks

Palouse Falls State Park

Palouse Falls is one of Washington’s most awe-inspiring waterfalls, plunging 198 feet into a dramatic basalt canyon. Located in Eastern Washington, this powerful cascade is the official state waterfall and a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.

One of the best things about Palouse Falls is that you don’t have to hike to see it. A short walk from the parking lot leads to several scenic viewpoints along the canyon rim, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the waterfall and the rugged landscape carved by ancient floods.

For those wanting a closer look, a rough and unofficial trail descends into the canyon, but it’s steep and not maintained by the park.

This waterfall is stunning year-round, but its flow is most powerful in the spring when snowmelt feeds the Palouse River.

Whether you’re stopping for a quick break on a road trip from Washington to Montana, lingering to watch the sunset paint the canyon walls, or attempting to hike to the base of the falls, Palouse Falls is a beautiful destination that’s well worth seeking out.

Wallace Falls State Park

Wallace Falls is one of Washington’s most iconic waterfalls, tumbling 265 feet in three breathtaking tiers through a lush, mossy forest. Located in the Cascade foothills near Gold Bar, this waterfall is a favorite among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Unlike some waterfalls that require little effort to see, reaching Wallace Falls involves a moderate hike. The Wallace Falls Trail is a 5.6-mile round-trip trek with three main viewpoints: Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls.

The Middle Falls viewpoint is the most popular, offering a stunning view of the tallest and most dramatic section of the waterfall. If you’re up for a steeper climb, continuing to the Upper Falls rewards you with a closer, more secluded view.

This waterfall is spectacular year-round, but it’s especially impressive after heavy rains or during spring snowmelt when the water is rushing at full force. The trail can be busy on weekends, so visiting early in the morning or on a weekday is best for a quieter experience.

Ollalie State Park

Nestled in the Snoqualmie Valley, Twin Falls is a stunning 135-foot waterfall that cascades in multiple tiers through a mossy forest. Located within Olallie State Park, this waterfall is easily accessible from Interstate 90, making it a popular stop for hikers exploring the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains.

To reach Twin Falls, visitors must hike the Twin Falls Trail, a 2.6-mile round-trip hike that meanders along the scenic South Fork of the Snoqualmie River. The best viewpoint is from the wooden bridge that crosses just above the upper falls, offering a breathtaking look at the water plunging into the gorge below. There’s also a lower viewpoint that gives a wider perspective of the falls and surrounding old-growth forest.

Spring and early summer bring the most powerful flow, but Twin Falls is a beautiful hike year-round, with misty cascades in winter and vibrant foliage in the fall.

This short yet rewarding hike is perfect for families, photographers, and anyone looking for an accessible waterfall adventure near Seattle.

Rainbow Falls State Park

Located in Rainbow Falls State Park, just west of Chehalis, Rainbow Falls is a picturesque waterfall along the Chehalis River. Though only about 16 feet high, the falls span the width of the river, creating a broad, scenic cascade that is especially beautiful after heavy rainfall.

Unlike some of Washington’s more remote waterfalls, Rainbow Falls requires no hiking to see—it’s easily accessible from a short path near the park’s picnic area. This makes it a great stop for families, photographers, and anyone looking for a quick, beautiful nature escape.

The best time to visit is in the fall, winter, and spring, when the river is flowing at its strongest. During the summer months, lower water levels reveal more of the rocky riverbed, changing the character of the falls but still providing a peaceful and scenic spot to enjoy.

Rainbow Falls State Park is also popular for camping, hiking, and fishing, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway.

Whether you’re stopping by on a road trip or spending the day exploring the park, Rainbow Falls offers a tranquil and photogenic slice of Washington’s natural beauty.

Larrabee State Park

Located in Larrabee State Park, just south of Bellingham, Larrabee Falls is a charming waterfall along the Fragrance Lake Trail. Although not as large or thunderous as some of Washington’s more famous falls, Larrabee Falls offers a serene and peaceful experience, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers looking for a quiet escape.

To reach the falls, visitors will embark on a 1.5-mile hike through lush, old-growth forest along the Fragrance Lake Trail. The hike is moderate in difficulty and leads you through verdant ferns and towering trees, with the sound of the water growing louder as you near the falls. The waterfall itself is a series of gentle cascades, with water tumbling over mossy rocks into a clear, cool pool below.

Larrabee State Park is well known for its proximity to Chuckanut Bay and its location along the scenic Chuckanut Drive, making it a fun road trip or day trip from Seattle.

This scenic byway offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and fresh seafood restaurants along the way, adding to the overall experience for visitors traveling through the area.

Tumwater Falls Park

Located in Olympia, Tumwater Falls is a stunning series of cascades along the Deschutes River, offering one of the most accessible and scenic waterfall experiences in Washington.

Unlike many waterfalls that require a hike, Tumwater Falls is easily viewed from a short, paved loop trail in Tumwater Falls Park, making it a perfect stop for visitors of all ages.

The 0.6-mile loop trail follows the river, passing several viewpoints and footbridges that offer different perspectives of the falls. The most impressive drop is the lower falls, where the river plunges over a rocky ledge into a swirling pool below.

The park is also home to the Tumwater Falls Fish Hatchery, where visitors can witness salmon returning to spawn in the fall—a spectacular sight as the fish leap up the rushing waters.

Although Tumwater Falls Park is not a state park, it is privately managed by the Olympia Tumwater Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the area’s history and natural beauty.

The park features picnic areas, benches, and interpretive signs highlighting the significance of the site, which includes the first European-American settlement in the Puget Sound region and the original location of the Olympia Brewing Company.

With its easy access, scenic beauty, and historical significance, Tumwater Falls is a must-visit for waterfall lovers and those exploring Washington’s capital region.

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