Teneriffe Falls
Snoqualmie RegionBest Apr–Oct
A steep push through 22 switchbacks to a thundering cascade in the Mount Si foothills.
About This Trail
Teneriffe Falls packs a serious waterfall payoff into a moderate effort hike in the shadow of Mount Si. The trail starts on a wide, converted logging road that gains only 375 feet in the first mile, then turns off onto a narrower path that climbs steeply through second-growth forest. The final 0.9 miles gains 850 feet over 22 switchbacks before reaching the falls, where water cascades down a rock face framed by ferns and moss.
The falls viewpoint sits in a narrow canyon with spray drifting across the rocks. The area around the falls gets slippery, and the drop-offs near the viewing area demand attention, especially with kids. A social trail continues toward the Mount Teneriffe summit from here, but it crosses eroded terrain and the Forest Service discourages use.
Spring is the prime season. Snowmelt pushes the falls to peak volume in April and May, and wildflowers line the upper switchbacks. The trail shares its trailhead and first mile with the Mount Teneriffe route, so the parking lot fills early on weekends. Arrive before 9 AM on Saturdays or plan a weekday visit.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Huge parking lot.”
Last report: Jul 11, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Steep drop-offs near falls viewpoint
- Slippery rocks around the falls from spray
- Loose rock on upper switchbacks
- Gated trailhead with seasonal hours
Getting There
118-car paved lot off SE Mount Si Road requires a Discover Pass. Restrooms at the trailhead. The lot fills by 9 AM on Saturday mornings. Overflow parking at the Mount Si trailhead adds distance but connects via the Roaring Creek Trail. Gate hours vary seasonally, roughly one hour after dawn to one hour before dusk.
From I-90, take exit 32 (436th Avenue SE) and head north 0.5 miles to SE North Bend Way. Turn west, then right (north) on SE Mount Si Road for 2.9 miles to the trailhead. The trail shares its first mile with the Mount Teneriffe route on a wide converted road before branching right toward the falls.
Start before 9 AM on weekends to secure parking. The hike takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours round trip. Spring mornings offer the best light on the falls.
Recent Reports
Huge parking lot. Easy 30 minutes starts, tough last 1.
Distance: 15 miles Elevation Gain: 4,957 feet This long but worthwhile makes for a great way to experience both Teneriffe Falls and the summit without having to contend with the Kamikaze Trail. I headed up via Teneriffe Falls, descended slightly to take the connector trail, then climbed to the summit via the Mount Teneriffe Trail before returning on the main trail.
Bro I didn’t know they were gonna have me basically scrambling
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