An Off-Season Hidden Gem: Washington’s Wallace Falls State Park
When Karen wants to shake me out of my mid-winter stupor, she knows a hike in Wallace Falls State Park will do the trick.
Tucked away just a short drive north of the town of Gold Bar along Washington’s Highway 2, Wallace Falls State Park is one of our favorite year-round hikes. It’s definitely worth getting out of your pajamas before noon and making the short drive to experience this lush, quintessential Pacific Northwest outing.
A Year-Round Escape
While many alpine trails in the state are closed in winter, Wallace Falls is a wonderful destination to visit year-round. We especially love it in winter and spring, when the mist from the falls catch rays of light filtering through the trees, and the higher river flow makes the experience feel truly magical.
Choose Your Distance
The park has 12 miles of trails that crisscross and follow the Wallace River, eventually stretching out to Wallace and Jay Lakes for those who want a longer hike. However, if you’re there for the waterfalls, the 2.5-mile trail to the top of the falls offers multiple viewpoints:
- Lower Falls: A stunning 212-foot drop.
- Middle Falls: The panoramic main event that drops 265 feet.
- Upper Falls: A dramatic finish, dropping 240–270 feet in multiple tiers.
Plan Your Visit
- Passes: You’ll need a Discover Pass. If you don’t have an annual pass, you can grab a day pass for $10 at the parking lot kiosk.
- Dog Friendly: Leashed dogs are allowed.
- The Post-Hike Ritual: No trip to Wallace Falls is complete without a stop at the Espresso Chalet (just a few minutes further east on Highway 2). It’s the perfect place to grab a latte and a giant Bigfoot cookie while taking in the famous views of Mt. Index and Bridal Veil Falls.
