Hike description: Hop in the car and drive out Highway 410 for a short hike through the forest to a waterfall. This hike will appeal to everyone in the family. There are a number of ways to approach Snoquera Falls depending on how much distance you want to cover and how much elevation gain you are up for. This trail description is for the short version.

Starting from the parking lot just south of the entrance to Camp Sheppard, take the trail to the right (south) out of the parking lot. You will come to a sign for Buck Creek Trail 1169. Follow Trail 1169 to the Snoquera Falls Trail 1167. Trail 1167 will take you to a misty viewpoint of the falls. It is a nice, wide trail through the forest, with gentle switchbacks. Just before the falls, the trail crosses a rock field, with Snoquera Creek on your right. This creekside spot is your turnaround point.

When the water flow is high with snowmelt, you can ponder trying to cross the creek to do the full loop trail – but pondering is all you should do.

Directions: From Greenwater continue on Highway 410 about 10 miles and look for an unpaved small parking area on the left side of the highway, just a short way (0.1 mile) south of the entrance to Camp Sheppard Boy Scout Camp.

Difficulty rating

: 2 (1 is easiest, 5 is most difficult). Miles round-trip

: 3.5. Elevation

: 725 feet. Best time of year

: March to November.

Map

: Green Trails 238 – Greenwater

Pass

: Northwest Forest Pass

Also

: Hikers should carry enough extra clothing, food and water to deal with the unexpected. A map and a compass are always recommended. On this trail, with the multiple intersections, a map can help you avoid unduly extending your hike taking a wrong turn. The signage is great if you are following the trail as intended. If you follow an unsigned or “social” trail you may find yourself without signage to guide you. There are no bathroom facilities at the trailhead or on the trail.

Info

: Contact Snoqualmie Ranger District, Enumclaw office, 360-825-6585; www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs; “Waterfall Lover’s Guide to the Pacific Northwest” and “Day Hiking Snoqualmie Region,” all Mountaineers Books.

Hike of the Week is presented by The Mountaineers Tacoma Branch Hiking/Backpacking Committee. For other hikes, visit www.thenewstribune.com/hiking.