The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most dramatic and beautiful waterfalls in the country. From lush mossy forests to towering basalt cliffs, these falls offer unforgettable views — and many of them are easy for beginners to reach. Whether you're planning a day hike, a weekend road trip, or scouting your next photography adventure, these are the waterfalls you don’t want to miss.

Before you go, remember:

Waterfalls can be powerful, slippery, and unpredictable.
Always stay on marked paths and admire them from a safe distance.

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⚠️ Quick Safety Tips for Waterfall Trails

• Stay on designated viewpoints and marked trails

• Wet rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery — avoid climbing

• Keep a safe distance from edges and fast-moving water

• Check trail conditions before you go

• Bring waterproof layers — mist near waterfalls can be intense

This guide is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional safety or trail instruction.

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Top 5 Waterfalls in the PNW (You Can’t Miss These)

Here are five stunning, beginner-friendly waterfalls worth adding to your PNW bucket list.

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1. Multnomah Falls (Oregon)

Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: 620 feet
Difficulty: Easy

Multnomah Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the PNW — and for good reason. With a paved trail, accessible viewpoints, and a picturesque stone bridge, it’s a must-see for any outdoor explorer.

What to Know:

• Extremely popular — visit early morning or weekdays

• Mist can be heavy near the base

• Short, paved walk to the viewing platform

➡️ Read a more in-depth guide, visit the official Travel Portland guide to Multnomah Falls

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2. Snoqualmie Falls (Washington)

Location: Snoqualmie, WA
Height: 268 feet
Difficulty: Easy

This thundering waterfall is easily accessible and offers breathtaking views from multiple platforms. It’s great for families, winter trips, and anyone wanting that classic PNW waterfall experience.

What to Know:

• Viewpoint is right next to the parking lot

• Trail to the lower viewpoint may be muddy or wet

• Extremely photogenic at sunrise and after heavy rain

➡️ Read a more in-depth guide, visit the official Snoqualmie Falls visitor page

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3. Nooksack Falls (Washington – Mount Baker Area)

Location: Near Mt. Baker, WA
Height: 88 feet (two-tiered)
Difficulty: Easy

Nooksack Falls is a powerful, double-plunging waterfall surrounded by deep forest and rugged terrain. It’s one of the most iconic waterfalls in the North Cascades and delivers incredible views without a long hike. The sound alone is worth the trip — a deep, roaring echo through the canyon.

What to Know:

• Very short walk from the parking area

• Viewpoint is fenced for safety — stay behind railings

• Stunning year-round, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt

• The canyon drop is extremely steep — use caution

➡️ Read a more in-depth guide from Washington Trails Association on Nooksack Falls

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4. Wahclella Falls (Oregon)

Location: Columbia River Gorge
Height: ~350 feet
Difficulty: Moderate (2 miles round-trip)

A powerful waterfall tucked into a narrow canyon, surrounded by green moss and giant boulders. The trail follows a beautiful creek with multiple photo-worthy spots.

What to Know:

• Some areas of the trail can be narrow

• Rocks near the falls are very slippery

• The gorge can be windy — bring a layer

➡️ Read a more in-depth guide from Washington Trails Association on Wahclella

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5. Toketee Falls (Oregon)

Location: Umpqua National Forest
Height: 113 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Toketee’s perfectly layered basalt columns make it one of the most photographed waterfalls in Oregon. The blue-green pool below the falls is unbelievably beautiful.

What to Know:

• Short hike with stairs and railings

• Viewpoint overlooks the canyon — stay behind the rail

• Great year-round

➡️ Read a more in-depth guide to the Toketee Falls hike (Oregon Hikers)

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Related Blog to Explore Next

If you love scenic trails or waterfall hikes, make sure your pack is ready for the journey ahead.
Check out: How to Pack a Daypack Like a Pro — Hiking Packing List

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Your Waterfall Adventure Takeaway

Exploring waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest is an unforgettable experience — from misty canyons to towering basalt cliffs. As you visit these iconic falls, remember to stay on marked trails, watch your footing near wet areas, and enjoy each viewpoint safely. Every waterfall offers its own unique beauty, and with a bit of preparation, your visit will be both safe and memorable.

Want more trail tips and outdoor insights?

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