Washington has a long-standing reputation as America’s most waterfall-rich state, with estimates often landing near 2,900 cascades. While pinning down an exact figure is difficult, Travel + Leisure pointed to Reddit user malxredleader who produced a state-by-state estimate of natural waterfalls by analyzing data from the National Hydrography Dataset and a U.S. Geological Survey study. Their methodology focused strictly on naturally formed waterfalls, excluding rapids. The results placed Washington in first place with 2,907 waterfalls. Alaska followed with 2,012, while Oregon and California rounded out the top four with 1,876 and 1,619 waterfalls, respectively.
With that many falls to choose from, narrowing down where to go can be a challenge. Fortunately, a few standout destinations make excellent starting points.
Here are the top three places to visit in Washington state to see epic waterfalls:
1. Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is among Washington’s most iconic sights. Plunging 268 feet along the Snoqualmie River just east of Seattle, the waterfall sits between the towns of Snoqualmie and Fall City. It draws visitors from around the world, thanks in part to its appearance in the TV series Twin Peaks. The site features a compact park, an observation deck, a gift shop, and the historic Salish Lodge, where guests can enjoy dining or unwind at the spa.
2. Palouse Falls
Another must-see is Palouse Falls, located within Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site. Here, the Palouse River drops 200 feet into a dramatic churning basin. Though not the tallest waterfall around, its striking shape and ease of access make it a favorite for photographers. Three viewpoints are available, with the sweeping vista from Fryxell Overlook offering the most impressive perspective.
3. Mount Rainier National Park
Want to squeeze multiple waterfalls into one outing? T+L says Mount Rainier National Park is hard to beat and we have to agree. The park hosts numerous falls, some of which appear only seasonally. In the Carbon River area, Chenuis Falls, Ipsut Falls, and the three-tiered Ranger Falls are highlights. Stevens Canyon offers Fairy, Martha, and Sylvia Falls, though Fairy Falls requires good timing and binoculars for the best view. Other memorable sights include the delicate Spray Falls and the powerful Comet Falls, often considered one of the park’s finest.