Olallie State Park is best known for its waterfalls, climbing and nearby long-distance trail. Though not large, it's home to steep cliffs, waterways, fishing, hiking trails and mountain biking through pristine forest. It's also an easy spot to jump on and off the 285-mile long Palouse to Cascades Trail.
Getting Started
On a good day you can drive to Olallie State Park from Seattle in 45 minutes, traffic permitting. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the short hike down Twin Falls Trail following the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River, with great views of Lower Falls plunging down a 135-foot cliff.
The Cedar Butte Trail is another good hike for families, with views of the hillside crater, Boxley Blowout.
Climb up the 8-mile out and back trail to Mount Washington, one of the most popular trails in the area for incredible views and less foot traffic than nearby Mount Si.
Long-distance hikers and bicyclists can access the nearby Palouse to Cascades Trail that runs east to west across Washington state (formerly known as the John Wayne Pioneer Trail).