Franklin Falls

@michaelmatti

Washington

•

King County

With nearby proximity to Seattle, Franklin Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls to visit in Washington. It's also one of the most photogenic, in my opinion. On the way there, you'll trek along a short hiking path through a dense, lush forest that'll take you to this 139-foot cascade. Stand beneath the rushing water and you'll see how this location offers a full-sensory experience!

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Moderate

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

Anytime (when the main road is open)

Fee

Day use parking fee=$5 or free with a Northwest Forest Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass

Pack

Normal lens (47mm)
Model/hiking buddy
Waterproof jacket
Lens cloth
Polarizing filter
Tripod (if you want to take long exposures)
Water shoes
Additional lenses (optional)

How to get there

N47° 25' 28.4592"W121° 26' 00.4992"

This photo was taken at the base of Franklin Falls. Once you get to the end of the trail, you'll see the waterfall directly in front of you. To reach Franklin Falls, you'll need to park at the Franklin Falls Trailhead parking lot (47.413135, -121.442671). As you head north on NF 8300, you'll pass Denny Creek Campground and then the handicap parking area on your left before you get to the main parking lot on your right. From the main parking lot, start your hike following the sign on the south end of the parking lot. The trail actually begins from the back right corner of this parking area. Everything should be well signed and as you walk, reference the GPS coordinates to see exactly where I stood for this viewpoint.