Discover the Stunning Beauty of Franklin Falls Trailhead
Explore the breathtaking Franklin Falls Trailhead, a stunning hiking area leading to picturesque waterfalls and lush wilderness in Washington State.
A brief summary to Franklin Falls Trailhead
- Parking lot, Denny Creek Trail, North Bend, Washington, 98045, US
- +1800-627-0062
- Visit website
Franklin Falls Trailhead is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Washington State. Located near North Bend, this trailhead provides access to the stunning Franklin Falls, a waterfall that plummets dramatically into a serene pool below. The trail leading to the falls is approximately 2 miles round-trip and offers a variety of scenic viewpoints along the way. The well-marked path meanders through lush forests, across charming bridges, and alongside the soothing sounds of Denny Creek, making the hike enjoyable for all ages. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for families with children and those looking for a relaxing day in nature. As you approach Franklin Falls, the majestic sight of water cascading over granite cliffs will take your breath away. Many visitors enjoy stopping at various points along the trail to capture photographs, have a picnic, or simply soak in the tranquility of the wilderness. For those interested in additional activities, the surrounding area offers opportunities for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities such as snowshoeing in the winter months. Be sure to plan your visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, particularly on weekends when the trail can become quite busy. Overall, Franklin Falls Trailhead is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Washington's natural beauty up close.
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially near the waterfall.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some sections of the trail may be muddy or uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the base of the falls, where you can relax and take in the beauty.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as rain can affect trail conditions.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by heading east on I-90 from Snoqualmie Pass. Take exit 34 toward North Bend and merge onto Denny Creek Road. Continue on Denny Creek Road for about 2 miles until you reach the parking lot for the Franklin Falls Trailhead, which is located at the end of the road. Make sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot, as it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take the King County Metro bus route 208 from Snoqualmie Pass to North Bend. The bus departs from the Snoqualmie Pass park-and-ride lot, and the trip takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive in North Bend, you will need to walk approximately 1.5 miles to reach the Franklin Falls Trailhead. Follow Denny Creek Road until you see the parking lot on your left. Be sure to check the bus schedule for the return trip.
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Hiking
If you're already enjoying the outdoors and are near the Snoqualmie Pass area, you can also hike to the Franklin Falls Trailhead from nearby trails. However, make sure you have a good map or a GPS device, as this route may not be marked. It is suggested to have appropriate hiking gear and supplies, as the terrain can vary.
Attractions Nearby to Franklin Falls Trailhead
- Denny Creek Campground
- Denny Creek Trailhead
- Melakwa Lake Trailhead
- The Summit at Snoqualmie
- Dru Bru - Snoqualmie Pass
- Washington State Ski & Snowboard Museum
- Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Center
- Granite Mountain Lookout
- Snoqualmie National Forest
- Annette Lake Trailhead
- Asahel Curtis Nature Trail
- Granite Mountain Trailhead
- Snoqualmie Mountain Trailhead
- Snow Lake Trailhead
- Gold Creek Sno-Park
Landmarks nearby to Franklin Falls Trailhead
- Summit Central - The Summit at Snoqualmie
- Pie For the People NW
- Summit Tubing Park
- Silver Fir Lodge
- Summit East - The Summit at Snoqualmie
- Snoqualmie Falls
- Mather Memorial Parkway Monument
- Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest
- The Hobart Yellow Submarine
- Squak Mountain State Park Natural Area
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Ranger Station
- Bullitt Fireplace
- Waqwaq Fountain
- Tahoma National Cemetery
- Evans Creek Preserve