Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wineries: Day Trip from Seattle

Summary

Snoqualmie falls mist woodinville wine tastings and seattle bridges

You’ll cross floating bridges out of Seattle, feel the spray at Snoqualmie Falls up close, wander forest trails with a local guide, then relax over wine tastings in Woodinville’s best spots. Expect muddy shoes, laughter over lunch at Chateau Ste Michelle, and a slow ride home with new stories—and maybe a bottle or two for later.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I almost bailed when I realized it was drizzling that morning in Seattle. But our driver—Samir, who’s lived here for years—just grinned and said, “This is perfect waterfall weather.” He picked us up right at our hotel (I barely finished my coffee), and we crossed Lake Washington on these floating bridges I’d only seen in photos. Mercer Island looked sleepy under the gray sky. There’s something about that slow roll out of the city that makes you feel like you’re sneaking away from real life for a bit.

When we got to Snoqualmie Falls, I could hear the water before I saw it—this low thunder that made my chest buzz. The upper deck view was wild, but walking down through the damp forest trail was better. Everything smelled green and earthy, like moss and wet bark. My shoes got muddy (should’ve worn boots), but nobody cared. At the lower deck, you’re so close to the falls you get mist on your face—cold but kind of electric. Samir pointed out some salmon trying to jump upriver; I totally missed them until he laughed and pointed again. Guess I was too busy gawking at the spray.

After that, Woodinville felt like a different world—quiet roads lined with wineries and those big leafy trees everywhere. We stopped at Chateau Ste Michelle (fancy but not snobby) where we had time for wine tasting and lunch. You can wander or just sit outside if you want; nobody rushes you. Samir let us pick which places to try next—there are over a hundred wineries around, so yeah, it’s impossible to choose wrong. Tasted one white that was so sharp it made me squint; still wish I’d written down the name.

The drive back to Seattle felt slower somehow—or maybe that was just me not wanting the day to end yet. There’s this moment after all the tasting and walking when everything feels softer: light through the window, rain letting up, everyone a little quieter in the van. I still think about that first blast of cold mist at Snoqualmie Falls sometimes when I’m stuck in city traffic—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Seattle to Snoqualmie Falls and Wineries

• Pickup from Seattle 9:30-10:30am
• Travel over Lake Washington bridges
• Arrive at Snoqualmie Falls
• Walk upper and lower observation decks
• Walk alongside Snoqualmie river
• Drive to Woodinville wineries
• Visit Chateau Ste Michelle winery
• Free time for wine tasting and lunch
• Return to Seattle 3:30-4:30pm

Top questions

How long is the Snoqualmie Falls & wineries tour from Seattle?

The tour runs from about 9:30-10:30am pickup to 4:00-4:30pm drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

Yes, pickup from your chosen location in Seattle is included.

Are wine tastings or meals included in the price?

No, wine tastings and meals are not included; you'll pay for those separately during your visit.

Do I need reservations for any wineries on this tour?

You only need a reservation if you want to visit Chateau Ste Michelle; other wineries don’t require it.

What should I wear for visiting Snoqualmie Falls?

Wear comfortable walking shoes (it can be muddy) and bring a rain jacket just in case.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available if needed; check with your guide ahead of time.

Is there much walking involved at Snoqualmie Falls?

There’s an easy walk down a soft trail through rainforest to reach the lower observation deck by the falls.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Bottled water and snacks are included throughout your day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes flexible pickup from your location in Seattle with a friendly driver guide who stays with you throughout. Bottled water and snacks are provided along the way as you visit Snoqualmie Falls’ upper and lower decks before heading into Woodinville for winery stops—with plenty of time for lunch or tastings before returning comfortably in the afternoon.