Chasing Waterfalls: Franklin Falls
I love marking the changing seasons with special events each year. Not only are traditions a great way to ground yourself in time, they are also a great way to feel connected to something larger than yourself, especially if the tradition is something you share with family or close friends. Traditions can also help you to be more intentional about your year. My special tradition to celebrate the spring/summer months is to visit at least one new waterfall each year.
I love this tradition, because it’s always an accomplishment and an adventure, and I learn something new about myself or nature as I hike to whatever new waterfall I’m visiting. This year I visited Franklin Falls for the first time, and I think this is my new favorite waterfall.
Franklin Falls, Washington
Franklin Falls is located near North Bend, Washington and the Snoqualmie Pass. The hike through the forest to reach the base of the falls is about 2 miles round trip and you reach 400 feet in elevation. It’s a fairly easy hike, and you are in the shade most of the time. A lot of families bring their kids, and dogs are also allowed as long as you keep them on a leash.
The hike through the forest is beautiful. It’s all old growth trees, and you are following the path of the water most of the way. At the end, you get to see the 70 foot fall and it is possible to climb all the way down to the splash pool. It was so beautiful and relaxing to sit there listening to the roar of the falls. Exactly what I needed on a hot, summer day.
I might need to go back to visit Franklin Falls this winter. I hear that the falls partially freeze, and it’s pretty amazing. You have to take a different trail, as the usual one is closed down during the snowy months, so the overall hike is about seven miles in the winter. I think it would be worth the experience, though. Franklin Falls is majestic.
Have you ever visited a waterfall?
Share your favorite falls in the comments. I’m already thinking ahead to next year’s waterfall adventure!
XOXO,
BLENDstyles