Weeks Falls

Weeks Falls is a ~30-feet waterfall located by South Fork Snoqualmie river in North Bend, WA. It is accessible via an easy ~1-mile toddler-friendly trail. The path being flat and short, this was a great starter hike for our 2 year old toddler.

At the Weeks Falls trailhead, you can access South Fork Snoqualmie river and picnic at a large grassy area with beautiful mountain views.

Located within ~40 mins drive from Seattle, it is easy to get to. We like going here to soak in the sun on a cool but sunny spring day, to break the gloomy winter streak. Or on a weekday summer evening to break the routine.

Below, you will find a detailed guide on Weeks Falls Interpretive Trail and some other activites around North Bend, WA.

Map of Weeks Falls Trail and Swimming Hole

Weeks Falls Interpretive Trail- Step by Step Guide

The Weeks Falls guide is broken down into three parts – the Weeks Falls trail, At Weeks Falls, South Fork Snoqualmie river access and Picnic.

1. Weeks Falls Trail [20-40 mins]

Starting from the South Fork Picnic Area, the walk on this trail would not take more than 20 mins out and back, if you are going on your own.

But when walking at toddler speed, you can expect to take upto 45 mins for your round trip.

The slow pace of traveling with kids has its own advantages. You notice more things, pay attention to different aspects of nature around which one would have otherwise missed.

On this trail, we found a tree hollow that our toddler could sneak into and hide, noticed a beautiful rock garden and squirrels running around and crossed a bridge over a small creek.

There are interpretive boards along the way through the old growth forest that provide information about the forest and the hydroelectric power plant that harnesses the waterfall and is said to provide electricity for ~800 King County homes.

2. At Weeks Falls

Before you know it, you will have reached the platform to view the falls.

Do not go expecting a cascade like that of Franklin Falls or Twin Falls. It is a modest 30-feet drop, with most of the water being diverted for the hydro electric plant.

But despite that, it is a beautiful flow to witness, especially January through May.

3. South Fork Snoqualmie River Swimmig Hole

There are many access points to the river throughout the trail, but the best one is at the South Fork Picnic Area, right before you start on the trailhead.

The picnic tables by the river with views of mountains on both sides is a serene sight. I wish I could identify these mountain peaks, which would make this experience more intimate and personal.

The pebble beach and tranquil flow of the river makes for a great swimming hole in the summer for kids. The easy flow of the river makes it safe for kids. The stones and sticks will keep them busy for hours.

We went here on a cool sunny spring morning and found it perfect for soaking in Vitamin D.

4. Picnic at Weeks Falls

If you are carrying food, there is no better place to picnic than by the river, near a forest surrounded by mountains.

The large grassy field near the parking lot can be a good place for kids to run and get their wiggles out.

If you forgot to pack food, you can pick up some food from the grocery stores (QFC, Safeway) or local restaursnts in North Bend nearby, on your way here.

Weeks Falls Trailhead Directions and Parking

Trailhead (51350 SE Homestead Valley Rd, North Bend, WA 98045) is off exit 38 on I-90 which is ~40 mins drive from Seattle. See google map directions here. It is to the east of Ollalie State Park.

There are 10-15 spots at the trail head (with the bathroom) and ~2-3 spots at a smaller parking right by the falls. We went on a Saturday morning and had no problems finding a spot.

Tips for Visiting Weeks Falls

Things We Carry

We’ve tested these essentials on our own trips and recommend them in every riverside post we write—for good reason!

• Water Shoes for the Whole Family – Seattle rivers are rocky, slippery, and COLD—even in summer! A solid pair of water shoes protects little feet (and grown-up toes) from cuts and slips. I use Teva which work as hiking, summer and water shoes for me. Kid alternates between Crocs and water shoes as they size up.
• Microfiber Towels – Bulky beach towels don’t cut it when you’re juggling gear for the whole family. These compact, quick-drying microfiber towels save space and dry fast. It is one of our most used items we carry on every trip.
• Water Toys – A few simple toys and water guns go a long way to keep kids entertained.
• Pop-Up Shade Tent and Hammock –  A portable tent creates a home base for naps, snacks, or diaper changes. Hammock is my relaxation station while kids play.
• Ready to go “Water Day Bag” – We keep most of the above packed in one dedicated adventure tote. When a sunny day hits Seattle, we just grab-and-go. It’s a game changer.

Estimated Activity Time and Trip Planning

• Pit-stop (30 mins) – If you are on a longer drive on the I-90 corridor and looking for some pause points for lunch or to get your restless kids a break, then this is a great place for such a stop. Not too far from I-90, yet surrounded by nature.  
• Half-Day trip –  If you are seeking relaxing time in nature, then I would plan for 1-2 hours at Weeks Falls for a riverside picnic. You can come here even on a weekday summer evening for a quick escape from the city.
• Best time to visit – Summer, spring and fall.

Kid and Family Trip Report

• Infants (upto 1 year) – Super easy for tired parents to carry in a carrier or stroller.
• Toddlers (1-3 years) and above – Very toddler-friendly trail. Perfect for toddlers to get introduced to PNW hiking. If you are not sure if your kids are ready for easy hikes or nature excursions, then this is a great way to gauge their skill, comfort and interest. There is lots to keep them occupied and interested.
• Families – Easily accessible for family members of all age groups, including older parents. In fact, we visited when our family member was recovering from a knee injury. We were looking for an easy outing and this fit the needs perfectly.

Amenities

• Restroom facilities – Vault toilet available at trailhead. Alternatively, you can use restrooms at the gas station at Tanner / North Bend before reaching the trailhead.
• Cellular network – There is limited cellular network.

Food

There are no food options close to the trailhead, but plenty in driving distance –

• North Bend  – Rio Bravo for mexican food, its outdoor patio and view of Mt.Si.
• Snoqualmie downtown – Snoqualmie brewery and taproom
• Issaquah downtown – Coconut Thai for thai food, Formula Brewing for brewery and pizzas, Garlic Crush for Mediterranean.

Final Thoughts

Our favorite time to picnic at Weeks Falls is on a lat spring / early summer Saturday morning or on a hit summer day for a river swim. Spending low-key quiet time in nature rejuvenates us like nothing else!

On a longer day trip, we combine it with hikes in Middle Fork Snoqualmie Drive or around North Bend for a fulfilling summer day trip.

If you are looking for starter hikes for your kids and family members then you will like this list of amazingly easy hikes around Seattle.