Top 10 Things to Do in Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Snoqualmie Pass is one of the Pacific Northwest’s best vacation destinations nestled at the base of the Cascade Mountains, only 25 miles east of Seattle on the I-90. It was the quirky charm of Snoqualmie, the spectacular natural attractions and eerie old woods that set the stage for the popular murder mystery and cult classic, Twin Peaks and the question “Who killed Laura Palmer” attracted more travelers to Snoqualmie than ever before.
There’s more to Snoqualmie Pass than Twin Peaks locations to visit! The Snoqualmie River passes through the heart of town for summer fun on the water, trails weave through the Cascade Mountains and there’s outdoor adventures, attractions and activities for all ages!
#1 Snoqualmie Falls
The iconic Snoqualmie Falls were made famous by the opening credits of Twin Peaks and draw over 1.5 million visitors a year, making them one of Washington’s most popular natural attractions. Nestled in the fragrant pines, the falls plunge 270 feet into a dark blue pool with a pedestrian foot bridge to an observation deck (open dawn ‘til dusk) and an easy trail to the base of falls. The falls are a natural source of energy that power the Snoqualmie Valley and visitors can view the powerhouse and turbines at the base.
#2 Winter Snow Play at The Summit at Snoqualmie
The Summit at Snoqualmie is the closest ski resort to Seattle and one of the best in Washington with 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, the most night skiing in the US, a terrain park and four unique ski areas. Summit West is the place to learn, Summit Central has a mix for all levels, Summit East has over 50kms of groomed and tracked Nordic trails to explore, and Alpental is the steepest and deepest for advanced skiers.
The Summit Tubing Park is across from the Summit Central ski area with over 20 tubing lanes for hours of family fun! For more groomed Nordic trails and snow play, head to the Hyak, Crystal Springs and Cabin Creek Sno-Parks on nearby Keechelus Lake. A Sno-Park Pass is required for these trails. The Summit at Snoqualmie offers a complete resort experience with base lodges, ski shops with all the latest gear and a selection of restaurants, bars and seasonal live music for vibey and laid-back aprés ski.
#3 Float the Snoqualmie River in Summer
For a unique Snoqualmie experience, float the Snoqualmie River beneath the falls (it’s a summer tradition!) followed by an evening of casual or fine dining with magnificent views of the floodlit falls at the iconic Salish Lodge Resort. Fall City Floating offer tube rentals, shuttle services and all you need for a lazy summer float on the Snoqualmie River.
#4 Four Seasons of Hiking
From short, scenic strolls to climbing challenging switchbacks to an alpine lake, Snoqualmie is surrounded by iconic PNW hiking trails with jaw dropping views of the Snoqualmie Valley, Cascades, Mount Si and even Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker on a clear day. For an easy stroll, Gold Creek Pond is a tranquil ADA-accessible trail with picnic grounds and views of the Alpine Lakes wilderness, perfect for families with strollers or pack a picnic and head to Snoqualmie Point Park.
The Mount Si, Rattlesnake Ledge and Mailbox Peak trails are popular for wildflowers, wildlife, unbeatable PNW views and a challenge and for avid adventurers, the Pacific Crest Trail runs right through Snoqualmie Pass!
#5 Scenic Golf Courses
The only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses in Washington is right here in Snoqualmie! While the Club at Snoqualmie Ridge is open to members only, visitors can enjoy year-round golf with scenic mountain views, wildlife encounters on the fairways and a challenging round for all levels at the Mount Si Golf Course and Snoqualmie Falls Golf Course on the Snoqualmie River.
#6 Northwest Railway Museum
The restored Northwest Railway Museum dates back to 1889 and gives visitors a fascinating insight into the railway history and heritage of the Snoqualmie Valley. The museum is one of the biggest and oldest railway museums in Washington with the Snoqualmie Depot in the heart of town and a second location, the Train Shed Exhibit Hall, with a collection of historic artifacts, locomotives and equipment. Train enthusiasts can embark on a historic journey on the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad along the heritage route to North Bend and through the Snoqualmie Valley to Snoqualmie Falls.
#7 Snoqualmie Casino
For a fun night on the town, the Snoqualmie Casino has state-of-the-art slot machines, gaming tables, award-winning dining venues, live entertainment in the ballroom and an incredible Summer Concert Series in the outdoor amphitheater with sweeping mountain views. A fun Snoqualmie attraction with lots of action!
#8 Shopping & Dining
From Snoqualmie Ridge through historic downtown Snoqualmie to North Bend there are a number of local gift and antique stores, art galleries and boutiques, and all your favorite brand names at the North Bend Premium Outlets.
The historic downtown area has the best places to eat and drink in Snoqualmie with everything from bistros, steakhouses and ethnic eateries to casual breweries, tap rooms and wineries with cozy outdoor patios and live music. Stop by Twede’s café for some Twin Peaks cherry pie or enjoy fine dining at The Attic or the Dining Room at Salish Lodge, the famous Great Northern Hotel from Twin Peaks.
#9 Events & Festivals
Snoqualmie hosts several events and festivals throughout the year. Dance the night away under the stars at the Snoqualmie Casino or Snoqualmie Point Park at a summer music series, go wine tasting at a local vineyard, berry picking on a farm in fall or take a holiday train ride with Santa. Snoqualmie Railroad Days is a fun community event in August that celebrates the history of the Snoqualmie Valley and all things trains!
#10 Stay on the slopes of Snoqualmie!
Whether you’re planning a workcation in the Cascades, a quick friends getaway from Seattle or a Pacific Northwest road trip with the whole family, our Snoqualmie cabin rentals offer a tranquil escape on the slopes of Snoqualmie with high-end amenities, all the comforts of home and the serene splendor of the Snoqualmie Valley.