The upper deck: big views, short walk
From the parking lots it takes only a few minutes to reach the upper deck, and the paved paths are stroller friendly. The railings are high and solid, but crowds can be thick, so hold small hands. The gift shop sells snacks, and restrooms are close by.
Trains, trains, trains
A mile away, the Northwest Railway Museum lets kids get close to real locomotives at the Snoqualmie Depot for free, and its weekend trains run from spring through October, with Halloween and Santa trains later in the year. The Train Shed Exhibit Hall is indoors, handy on a wet day, and has a free story time on some Wednesdays.
Kid-sized hikes
The trail to the lower falls is short, but the climb back tires little legs, and a child carrier beats a stroller. Twin Falls is a good first waterfall hike for school-age kids, and Little Si a fine first summit. At Rattlesnake Ledge, keep everyone well back from the edges, which have no railings.
Practical tips for families
Bring a rain jacket for each child; the spray soaks the lower viewpoint in high water and the weather turns quickly. Picnic tables in the upper park are first come, first served, and barbecues are not allowed. Downtown Snoqualmie and North Bend have casual places to eat, and Remlinger Farms in Carnation, about 20 minutes north, holds a fall harvest festival with U-pick pumpkins and rides on autumn weekends. See the directory for links.
Frequently asked questions
Is Snoqualmie Falls good for kids?
Yes. The main viewpoint is a short, paved walk from parking, and the railway museum nearby runs train rides.
Can you take a stroller on the Snoqualmie Falls trail?
The upper park is stroller friendly. The trail to the lower falls is steep gravel, so a child carrier works better.
