Snoqualmie falls and Twin Falls Hike

If you’re visiting Seattle and craving a taste of the region’s natural splendor, this tour offers an excellent way to see two of its most iconic waterfalls in just half a day. While we haven’t done it ourselves, from what travelers say, this experience is both accessible and rewarding. It combines the thrill of seeing breathtaking waterfalls with the quiet magic of a rainforest hike—all led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide.

What really draws people in are the stunning views of Snoqualmie Falls and Twin Falls — two spots that truly capture the rugged beauty of Washington’s landscape. Plus, the small group size ensures you get plenty of personal attention, making it feel more like a nature walk with friends than a crowded tour bus. On the flip side, some might find the hike’s length and terrain a bit challenging if they’re not used to walking on uneven paths.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who enjoy being outdoors, value learning about local ecology, and want to see waterfalls without spending a full day on the trail. If you’re looking for a quick, well-organized escape into nature from Seattle, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Short but packed: It covers two major waterfalls in about four hours.
• Educational focus: Led by a naturalist who shares interesting insights about the environment and indigenous culture.
• Flexible hiking options: You can choose between a shorter 1.5-mile walk or extend to 2.5 miles for a more immersive experience.
• Small group size: Max of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and easier interaction with the guide.
• Perfect for nature lovers: Combines sightseeing with a rainforest hike and wildlife-friendly scenery.
• Good value: At $73 per person, with all tickets included, many see this as a worthwhile experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Meet in Downtown Seattle

The tour begins in central Seattle at 800 5th Ave N. From there, the journey immediately shifts focus to exploring the outdoors. The guide, Jared, is praised for dropping nuggets of local info even during the drive, setting a tone of relaxed curiosity.

First Stop: Snoqualmie Falls

After about a 45-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Snoqualmie Falls, one of the most recognizable sights near Seattle. This waterfall drops 268 feet and is a popular photo spot, thanks to its impressive height and the lush greenery that frames it. From reviews, it’s clear that visitors love the way Jared’s knowledge enhances the experience, sharing details about the falls’ history and geology.

The tour offers two hiking options here. The first is around 1.5 miles round-trip, considered easy to moderate. This hike takes you to an overlook, giving you a close-up view of the falls. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can extend to about 2.5 miles, heading further into the surrounding rainforest. Multiple reviews mention how the hikes feel manageable even for those with limited experience, thanks to the pace and the optional extension.

While the scenery itself draws many visitors, what makes this stop special is the combination of iconic scenery and the chance to learn about the area from someone who genuinely knows their stuff. One reviewer noted how Jared’s insights on passing landmarks added a layer of depth to the trip: “He dropped lots of nuggets of info on our drive and hike.”

Second Stop: Twin Falls in Olallie State Park

After a brief lunch or refreshment break, you’ll head to Olallie State Park for the highlight hike to Twin Falls. The trail here is a bit longer and more rugged—about 2 miles or so—offering a more immersive trek through ancient rainforest. Many reviews highlight the beauty of this area, with its towering trees and the powerful cascade of Twin Falls.

Jared’s interpretive guidance continues here, blending environmental facts with indigenous cultural insights, making the experience educational and engaging. You’ll get about an hour of solo hiking time, giving you space to soak in the sights and take photos.

A common theme in reviews is how well-balanced this part of the tour is. One person mentioned, “I loved the extended hike much closer to the waterfalls,” appreciating the opportunity to see the falls from different angles and the intimacy it provided.

Return to Seattle

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to the starting point, typically after four hours. The small group size ensures everyone has a chance to converse with Jared and share their impressions. Many reviews commend the pacing—neither rushed nor dragging—and the personal touch Jared adds with his knowledge and friendliness.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that this tour delivers on stunning scenery and expert guidance. Visitors often mention how Jared’s knowledge makes the experience more meaningful, with comments like “Jared was very informative and personable” and “He dropped lots of nuggets of info.”

The hikes are described as manageable for most, with some reviewers noting they brought along family members or older travelers who enjoyed the experience with no issues. The option to extend the hike if you’re feeling energetic is a plus, providing flexibility based on your mood and stamina.

Many reviewers highlight the beauty of the waterfalls, with one describing the experience as “absolutely beautiful and a must-see.” The views are genuinely breathtaking, and the combination of waterfalls and rainforest makes for spellbinding scenery.

Several travelers appreciated the personalized attention—being in a small group meant Jared could cater to individual needs, share local stories, and stop for photos or questions as needed. The overall sentiment is that the tour is well-organized, with good pacing and just enough time at each stop to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews mention that a longer or more challenging hike could elevate the experience, especially for seasoned hikers. One reviewer suggested, “A full day with more trekking and engagement” would be even more rewarding. But for most, the four-hour format strikes a good balance, especially given the moderate difficulty level.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $73 per person, including all admissions, this tour offers solid value for a half-day outdoor adventure. Compared to the cost of a private guide or multiple individual outings, it’s a convenient way to see top waterfalls with expert insights. The small group size and personalized guidance add to the perceived value, making it more than just a sightseeing ride; it’s an educational journey.

Many reviewers consider it a good deal given the quality of scenery, the expertise of Jared, and the included stops. It’s especially appealing if you’re short on time but still want an authentic, nature-filled experience near Seattle.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and curious travelers who want a manageable hike with impressive rewards. If you enjoy waterfalls, rainforest scenery, and learning about local ecology and indigenous culture, you’ll find plenty to love. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for a range of ages and fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable with some uneven terrain.

It’s also great for those who appreciate a small, intimate group and prefer tours led by passionate guides who go beyond just pointing out landmarks. If you’re in Seattle for a few days and want a half-day escape into the lush Cascades, this is a solid choice.

FAQ Section

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour starts from downtown Seattle, and Jared’s van takes you directly to the waterfalls and rainforest trailheads.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around four hours, including driving, hiking, and stops.

Are there hiking options?
Yes, you can choose between a 1.5-mile round-trip hike or extend to 2.5 miles. The hikes are considered easy to moderate.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it manageable, but the terrain may be uneven for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Most reviews suggest good weather and clear views, so late spring to early fall is ideal. It’s weather-dependent, and the tour can be canceled if conditions are poor.

Are tickets included in the price?
Yes, all admission fees for Snoqualmie Falls and Twin Falls are included.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a shared small group tour with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience without exclusivity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is Jared available for questions during the tour?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight his friendliness and knowledge, and he’s happy to answer questions about the environment, history, or local lore.

Will I have enough time to take photos?
Yes, the itinerary allows for ample time at each waterfall for photos and personal exploration.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced mix of natural beauty, education, and manageable activity, this tour hits the mark. The combination of stunning waterfalls and rainforest hikes, all led by a passionate guide, makes for a memorable half-day adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate learning about the environment as they explore, and for travelers who want to maximize their outdoor experience without committing to a full day of trekking.

While it might not satisfy the most seasoned hikers craving a long, challenging trek, it provides an excellent snapshot of what the Cascades have to offer. The consistently high reviews underscore how much travelers value Jared’s expertise and the overall quality of the trip. Whether you’re visiting Seattle for a short stay or simply want an authentic nature fix, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Washington’s rugged landscape.

In short, this experience is a great pick if you want a well-organized, scenic, and educational outing that leaves you with beautiful memories and a deeper appreciation of the Pacific Northwest’s natural wonders.