Late fall is the best time to see waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. Rain is back. Rivers rise. Forests turn bright green again. Many mountain trails get dusted with early snow, but low-elevation falls come alive.
These waterfall picks stay accessible in November. They are safe in wet weather. They’re easy to reach from Seattle or Portland. And they look their best right after a storm.
Quick Picks
Best close to Seattle: Twin Falls
Best close to Portland: Latourell Falls
Most dramatic after heavy rain: Snoqualmie Falls
Best loop for families: Silver Falls “Trail of Ten Falls”
Best coastal waterfall: Sweet Creek Falls
Best quiet trail: Rocky Brook Falls
Where Late-Fall Waterfalls Shine in the PNW
Most PNW waterfalls sit in temperate rainforest. That means they thrive in rain, mist and shoulder-season weather. November brings:
- High water flow
- Cool, stable temps
- Fewer crowds
- Easier parking
- Foggy forest views
High-elevation falls may see early snow. That’s why this guide sticks to reliable, low and mid-elevation options.
Washington’s Best Late-Fall Waterfall Hikes
Twin Falls (North Bend)
Distance: 2.6 miles
Elevation: 700 feet
Why it’s great: Close to Seattle. Safe in rain. The upper overlook thunders in November.
Good to know: Roots get slick. Go slow on wet steps.
Snoqualmie Falls (Snoqualmie)
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Why it’s great: Peak flow. Massive spray. Easy access.
Good to know: Parking fills fast on weekends.
Coal Creek Falls (Cougar Mountain, Bellevue)
Distance: 2.5 miles
Why it’s great: Forested, mellow, good in heavy rain.
Good to know: Best viewed November through March.
Rocky Brook Falls (Hood Canal)
Distance: Short walk
Why it’s great: Underrated. Huge volume in late fall.
Good to know: Watch for pooling water along the path.
Oregon’s Best Late-Fall Waterfall Hikes
Latourell Falls (Columbia River Gorge)
Distance: 2.4-mile loop
Why it’s great: Basalt cliffs. Easy loop. Looks amazing in rain.
Good to know: Gorge winds can be strong.
Bridal Veil Falls (Columbia River Gorge)
Distance: 0.5 miles
Why it’s great: Short and family-friendly.
Good to know: Great add-on to a Gorge day.
Silver Falls: Trail of Ten Falls (Silver Falls State Park)
Distance: Up to 7.8 miles
Why it’s great: Peak late-fall loop. Walk behind waterfalls.
Good to know: Muddy but manageable with good footwear.
Sweet Creek Falls (Florence)
Distance: 2.1 miles
Why it’s great: Lush, coastal, great in storm season.
Good to know: Wooden walkways can be slick.
Map: Late-Fall Waterfall Zones
Washington clusters
- North Bend / Snoqualmie corridor
- Issaquah Alps
- Olympic foothills
Oregon clusters
- Columbia River Gorge
- Silver Falls State Park
- Central Coast rainforests
Use these clusters to plan safe, low-snow trips in November.
What Conditions to Expect in November
- High river flow
- Mud on steep slopes
- Heavy rain at times
- Early dusk around 4:30–5 p.m.
- Occasional high winds
Check trail conditions using:
- NOAA Forecast
- WSDOT / ODOT road updates
- Local ranger districts
Gear List for Late-Fall Waterfall Hikes
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm fleece
- Wool socks
- Grippy trail shoes
- Headlamp (sunset comes early)
- Trekking poles for stability
- Dry bag for phone and camera
Optional: Microspikes for shaded or frosty mornings.
Safety Tips for Rain-Fed Waterfalls
- Stay off wet rocks
- Keep back from cliff edges
- Watch for flowing water crossing trails
- Mind your footing on roots
- Don’t climb behind falls unless it’s a marked route
Waterfalls are beautiful now, but the power is real.
Best For Quick Decisions
| Goal | Go Here |
|---|---|
| Short & close to Seattle | Twin Falls |
| Short & close to Portland | Latourell Falls |
| Best photo spots | Snoqualmie or Silver Falls |
| Best for families | Bridal Veil or Silver Falls |
| Best quiet hike | Rocky Brook |
When to Go
Late fall through early spring is prime waterfall time in the PNW. For the best flow, visit:
- After a full day of rain
- On cloudy or misty mornings
- Weekdays for fewer crowds
Sources
- NOAA Weather: www.weather.gov
- Washington Trails Association: www.wta.org
- Oregon State Parks: www.stateparks.oregon.gov
Takeaway
November is one of the best months to chase waterfalls across the PNW. Look for low-elevation trails, bring good rain gear, and time your visit after steady rain. You’ll see the Northwest at its most powerful.
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