Washington Wanders
From the moment we stepped onto the trail, the boys were in full explorer mode. They turned every rock into a launch pad, every bend in the trail into a secret mission, and every fallen tree into a jungle gym. The real thrill? Finding the stick. Not just any stick- the one. The kind that magically transforms into a sword, a walking buddy, or whatever else their imagination could dream up.
The trail down to the base of the falls was shaded and serene, the kind of hike where you can hear your own thoughts (at least in between kids laughing, rock clinks, and someone shouting, “Watch this!” every 20 seconds). The closer we got, the louder the waterfall roared, like nature calling out, “You’re almost there.”
And when we finally made it? Wow.
Standing close to the base of Snoqualmie Falls, with water crashing down in front of us, was the kind of moment that made us all pause. The boys stood still (rare), just taking it in. There is something humbling about standing in front of that kind of power, something that makes you feel small in the best possible way.
We stayed for a bit, watching the water move and Mai Boys tossing rocks (because of course), and soaking up the fresh air. It was peaceful and grounding.
But here’s the heads-up: getting back to the car is a different story. That return hike is all uphill. It’s a good climb, the kind that sneaks up on you and leaves you breathless. Pack water. Take breaks. Embrace the burn.
Was it worth it? Absolutely. Every step. Every laugh. Every jump. Every throw.
Snoqualmie reminded us that you don’t need anything fancy to make a memory, just nature, a trail, and a good company.
If you ever find yourself in Washington, do yourself a favor and go. Hike it. Feel it. Let the waterfall remind you how refreshing the world can be when you just slow down and step outside.
Mai Household Mayhem 