Twin Falls, Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area

Buried in the foothills of the Cascades, Twin Falls is a powerful downpour carving a substantial canyon into the mountain as the water rushes to join the Snoqualmie River. Although Olallie State Park is unusually close to I-90, and very convenient from Seattle, the three mile hike ( in each direction ) from the trailhead, and the hills, deter most visitors. Unfortunately, because the hike begins literally across the river from the freeway, you can hear cars rushing by during parts of the hike, and occasionally see them.

The trail leading to Twin Falls crosses a number of micro-climates. Most of the path goes through the woods, sometimes old growth, although about 3/4 mile follows desert-like Iron Horse State Park. Plant life changes from sun-loving brush to giant ferns, with moss hanging from the trees. The photo below shows a slice of rainforest about halfway to the falls. Several fallen trees are partially blocking the path, and it looks like at least one of them has been there for a few years.