Eagle Falls, Washington
Overview
About Eagle Falls, Washington
Eagle Falls is a ~25ft waterfall / cascade on the Skykomish river.
It is located near mile marker 39, between Halford and Index on Highway 2 (aka the Stevens Pass Highway). This would be 1.5 hour drive from Seattle
Why visit Eagle Falls?
Because it is a gorgeous waterfall that is very easily accessible within a 2-min downhill walk from Highway 2.
The glacial waters of Skykomish river gushing through the granite rocks is a rejuvenating sight.
It is a beautiful pit stop on you drive from Seattle to Leavenworth or a day trip on Highway 2.
Eagle Falls, WA Step-by-Step Guide
The hiking guide is broken down into 4 steps – Eagle Falls Trail, At Eagle Falls, Eagle Falls Cliff Jumping and Rope Swinging, and View from Highway 2.
Eagle Falls Trail [5 mins]
After you park near Milepost 56 on Highway 2, you will have to cross the highway guardrails and start descending on the path towards the river.
There is no official trail as such, more like an over used path with all the foot traffic. The trail downhill will take no more than 5 mins. Nothing scary at all, a little steep so watch your step.
At Eagle Falls [15 mins]
The first reaction when we saw these falls was WOW! The flowing Skykomish river, the small pools it formed into the granite rocks was a sight to behold.
We simply sat on one of the granite rocks and enjoyed the natural and simple beauty of this place. The water is a beautiful emerald green color.
If you have very young kids, then you want to watch them at all times.
Eagle Falls Cliff Jumping and Rope Swinging
As we sat on the granite rocks closer to the falls and then walked downtream, we saw local kids jumping off of the granite rocks into the flowing river (see video below).
From the other side, there were teenagers jumping off the cliff and some swinging off the rope into the river which was amazing to watch. I would not do this given how cold the water is.
The water is ice cold and swift so swimming in these waters is not easy.
While Eagles Falls is a popular Washington cliff jumping spot, there are also warnings posted about the the deaths from drowning here. I would not recommend swimming or jumping unless you are with someone experienced or have a float to latch on to.
For us, walking over the granite rocks and sitting by the river and watching local kids jump was just as captivating
Eagle Falls View from Stevens Pass Highway [5 mins]
For a view of the falls from the highway, walk for 5-10 mins east on the highway from the parking / Milepost 56 and you can catch a gorgeous view of Eagle Falls. It is a good spot for a phot-op.
Getting to Eagle Falls
Eagle Falls Directions
Located at milepost 56 on Highway 2 (aka the Stevens Pass Highway), the drive from Seattle to Eagle Falls trailhead is ~1 hour.
Being a single lane highway, you can expect traffic on weekend evenings and hence take longer to go back than you took to come here.
We entered Higway 2 at Monroe from 522 (via 405) and the scenery starts changing as you continue your drive further east.
Eagle Falls Parking
Parking is free. There is no dedicated parking lot. You just park on the side of Highway 2.
Tips for Visiting Eagle Falls
Estimated Activity Time
Taking the very short trail down the river and spending some time at the falls, you can estimate ~30 mins for this activity.
If you plan to swim, then go preapred with a picnic for a longer duration.
Kid and Family Trip Report
- Infants (upto 1 year) – Very easy for parents to carry in a carrier. Given the downhill path to the river and the falls, this trail will not be stroller-friendly.
- Toddlers (1-3 years) – Manageable for toddlers and early walkers to walk the path but you may have to hold them at places. Watch them on the granite rocks.
- Pre-school (3-5 years) and above – Can manage independently.
- Families – Older parents may need some help up and down the hill, but manageable unless you have arthritic knees. Or you can let them watch the falls from the highway.
Amenities
- Restroom facilities – None
- Cellular network – spotty
Food
You will not find food options close to the trailhead, but there are plenty of options within driving distance.
Espresso Chalet on Highway 2 is a popular stop for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and the most amazing views of Mt.Index and Bridal Veil Falls . It is 5 mins drive from Eagle Falls.
Another stop worth making is at Sultan bakery which is open till 8 PM and a good spot to grab breakfast/lunch/dinner.
For more options, you can explore restaurants at Monroe, Bothell or Woodinville.
Eagle Falls Trip Planning
- Day trip – It is an awesome spot for a day trip, especially if you plan to chill by the waters on a hot summer day with a picnic. You can also combine it with a visit to Deception Falls.
- Weekend trip – On a weekend road-trip from Seattle or Olympia to Highway 2, I would include this as a must-stop activity. Why wouldn’t you stop to see a gorgeous waterfall that is easy to access?
- Pit stop on a longer road trip – This is a great roadtrip stop on Highwy 2 on a Seattle to Leavenworth drive or beyond. Fun activity to break the drive.
- Best time to visit – Spring, summer and fall.
Stay
There are many campgrounds, state parks, and Airbnbs in this stretch. Any stay option between Monroe and Stevens Pass will make for a convenient stay location.
Final Thoughts
I would highly recommend visiting Eagle Falls as well as Deception Falls for a day trip from Seattle. Easy, light activity with two beautiful waterfalls and scenic drive will be rewarding. Especially great for families with kids or older parents.
While you are in the Stevens Pass / Highway 2 area, add a visit to Big Eddy or Heybrook Lookout Hike to your itinerary for a longer trip.
