Located a mile north of the town of Snoqualmie just off WA-202, the 270-foot Snoqualmie Falls—a hundred feet higher than Niagara—has been inspiring awe since the last ice age. As Washington’s most famous waterfall, Snoqualmie attracts 1.5 million visitors annually. Two hydroelectric plants, one dating back to 1898, the other, 1910, have a 4.4-megawatts power capacity.

Stop at Snoqualmie Falls (open dawn–dusk, free) for a picnic lunch, or to stand in awe on the non-acrophobic-friendly viewing platform as the noisy river plummets to the rocks below. A moderately steep half-mile River Trail leads downhill to the base of the falls, where you can feel the cool mist on your face and watch the river flow. Near the parking area, a gift shop sells souvenirs and a rather rough espresso. Pets must stay in the car.

A mile north of the falls, Highway 202 passes Tokul Creek State Fish Hatchery (37501 S.E. Fall City-Snoqualmie Rd., 425/222-5464, daily 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.), where trout and steelhead are raised.