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Wondering if you can access Franklin Falls in the winter? This post will explain exactly how to access this winter wonderland. Pack up the snowshoes, load up the car, and head east to escape the rain in the city & experience the Franklin Falls Snowshoe route.
Getting there
- Before heading out, check Snoqualmie Pass conditions here.
- From Seattle, take I-90 and head East.
- Take Exit 47 towards Asahel Curtis/Denny Creek.
- Hang a left, and find parking any where along NF-9034.
- Parking can be tight & snowy/icy. Please be prepared & carry chains.
- No pass is needed since its not the real trailhead. Please note NF-5800 is closed winters, which means you’ll be hiking down the road to the trailhead.
Starting the Hike
Gear
Any great adventure starts with proper preparation. Here’s a few items we recommend for the Franklin Falls snowshoe.
- Layers: Be sure to wear or carry a base, mid, insulation, and outer shell.
- Boots: Waterproof or resistant boots.
- Hat & gloves: Thin are best, as you’ll get hot once you start moving.
- Traction: Depending on conditions: Microspikes, Snowshoes, Hiking Poles and Gaiters.
- Water & Food: Snacks and water are vital to any adventure.
The Hike
Snowshoes may not be a necessity depending on conditions. Failure to wear snowshoes in certain conditions will result in post holing and will damage the trail for snowshoers. Microspikes may work just fine, however we recommend reading trip reports here.
Once you’ve parked along NF-9034, head East down NF-9034 and underneath the I-90 bridge. You’ll then take the next left onto NF-5800 and this will take you to the trailhead. You’ll take the road for roughly 2.5 miles until you reach FS5830 (there will be a tiny restroom building on the left) where you’ll hang a left and finally reach the trailhead. The trail will be on the right, before the bridge.
The Franklin Falls snowshoe trail is absolutely stunning and will take you along Denny Creek. The creek boasts cascading waterfalls and tiny cabins that will give you all the feels. After roughly 1 mile on the trail, you’ll reach Franklin Falls. Enjoy the icy, snow covered waterfall in all its glory. It’s absolutely stunning if you get the proper conditions. If you’re lucky, you may see ice climbers ascending up the giant icicles. Take in the views, snap some photos, grab a snack & hydrate, and retrace your steps back to the car.
As always, be sure to use Leave No Trace Principals so we can keep the outdoors beautiful for further generations. Feel free to reach out with any questions and follow our Instagram @rooftoptrekkers for more adventure inspiration.
Thanks for reading this post. We hope it gave you some inspiration to get out and explore Franklin Falls snowshoe route. If you’re still in the market for a rooftop tent, consider ordering here. Read here on why we love ours. Life’s better on top!
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