Top Waterfalls To Visit In Washington This Spring

Enjoy scenic hikes to hidden gems like Cathedral Falls and Bridal Veil Falls in the great outdoors.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:00am

A bold, geometric illustration depicting a towering, cascading waterfall surrounded by lush, sweeping landscapes, capturing the grand scale and natural wonder of Washington's springtime waterfalls.Springtime in Washington brings the state's stunning waterfalls to life, offering adventurous hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty.Duvall Today

With spring's arrival, Washington's waterfalls burst to life, offering peaceful escapes and stunning natural views. This article highlights five must-see waterfalls in Western Washington, including Cathedral Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Murhut Falls, Lewis River Falls, and Cherry Creek Falls, along with details on the hiking trails and elevation gains to reach these scenic wonders.

Why it matters

As the weather warms and snow melts, Washington's waterfalls come alive, providing locals and visitors alike with opportunities to experience the state's natural beauty through short but rewarding hikes. These waterfall destinations offer a chance to disconnect, explore the outdoors, and appreciate the power and grace of the Pacific Northwest's abundant water resources.

The details

The article provides details on five specific waterfall destinations in Western Washington. Cathedral Falls, located near Mount St. Helens, requires a 1.8-mile hike with 200 feet of elevation gain. Bridal Veil Falls, near the town of Index, is a 4-mile hike with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Murhut Falls, in the Olympic National Forest, has a 1.6-mile trail with 250 feet of elevation gain. Lewis River Falls, in the Lower Falls Recreation Area, features an 8.8-mile trail with a 450-foot elevation gain. Cherry Creek Falls, near Duvall, has a 5-mile hike with 450 feet of elevation gain.

  • Spring is the ideal time to visit Washington's waterfalls as melting snow creates high water volume and trails begin to clear.
  • Many of these waterfall hikes are only accessible during the spring and summer months when snow has melted.

The players

Washington

The state of Washington, known for its abundant natural beauty, including over 3,000 waterfalls.

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What’s next

Hikers should check trail conditions and prepare properly before setting out to explore Washington's waterfall destinations this spring, ensuring they have the right gear, supplies, and safety precautions in place.

The takeaway

Washington's abundant waterfalls offer a chance for locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty through short but rewarding hikes, providing a peaceful escape and an opportunity to appreciate the power of the region's water resources.