Teneriffe Falls Trail

The trailhead for the Teneriffe Falls Trail is located near North Bend, Washington. There is a spacious parking area available, but you will need a Discover Pass to park there. Restrooms are also provided at the trailhead.

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for parking at the trailhead. This trail is located within the Mount Si Natural Resources Conservation Area, which requires the pass for vehicle access to recreation lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

The best time to hike the trail is during spring. This is when the Teneriffe Falls are at their most voluminous and impressive. Later in the summer, the falls can significantly diminish or even dry up.

While the trail is generally accessible for dogs, it's important to keep them on a leash. Be aware that the terrain can be challenging, with rocky sections and steep ascents, which might be difficult for some dogs.

The trail begins with a gentle ascent through dense, moss-covered forests. As you progress, it becomes significantly steeper and rockier, with sections requiring scrambling over wet rocks and roots. There are about 22 switchbacks to manage the elevation gain, and some areas have steep drop-offs. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended due to loose rock.

The round trip for the Teneriffe Falls Trail is approximately 5.6 to 6.5 miles (9-10.5 km) with an elevation gain of about 1,300 to 1,640 feet (400-500 meters). Hikers typically complete the route in 3 to 4 hours, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the falls.

The initial 0.9 to 1.5 miles of the trail are relatively gentle, but the latter portion becomes quite strenuous with steep, rocky sections and significant elevation gain. There are also sections with steep drop-offs. It is generally considered moderately challenging, so it might be too difficult for very young children or those not accustomed to strenuous hikes.

The primary highlight is the impressive Teneriffe Falls, which cascades down a rocky cliff. Along the way, you'll hike through lush, second and third-growth forests with towering Douglas firs and Western hemlocks. As you gain elevation, you'll also get stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Snoqualmie Valley.

Yes, the Teneriffe Falls Trail is part of a larger network. It connects to the Mount Teneriffe Trail, Mount Si Trail, and the Talus Loop, offering options for longer or alternative loop hikes if you wish to extend your adventure.

Given the trail's moderately challenging nature and rocky terrain, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots for ankle support, plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate layers for changing weather. Trekking poles can also be very helpful, especially for the steep descent, to reduce strain on your knees.

While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead itself, some seasonal services like the Trailhead Direct bus might operate routes to popular hiking areas in the region. It's best to check the latest schedules and routes for public transit options from Seattle or nearby towns before planning your trip.