Bridal Veil Falls

Celea McInerny
Jan 22, 2016
3 min read

Updated: Apr 12, 2024

With a tiring and courageous trip to Bagby Hot Springs last week, I decided to plan a day trip out to Bridal Veil Falls this week. The I-90 pass was closed due to avalanche warnings so there weren't many options for hikes. Having been to a lot of parks around Seattle, I am always looking for something new to explore. I decided to leave rainy Seattle and head out towards Snohomish. A friend from work has been envious of my travels and insisted he come along. My friend is an avid hiker and challenges himself by wearing a training mask which simulates high altitude.

Once we arrived at the Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls trailhead we walked past the welcome sign and immediately came upon snow. We did not expect snow to be present, but it definitely made the 1,000 foot elevation gain more difficult. We also brought my pup, Mac, along for the adventure. I ordered Mac a special 50 foot long leash so he can feel released into the wild while still being tied to his mom. As we trekked more and more up, I was working up a sweat and had to start removing layers. The hike ended up being about three miles each way, so it was an easy hike with the obstacle of the snow. Like I've said in the past, hikes that begin with all uphill are the best because the way down is much more enjoyable.

We passed two groups on the way up and chatted briefly about the conditions. One group of boys explained the last half mile of snowy switch backs really took it out of them. Once we arrived at the switch back section, we started to cross creeks and rivers, our feet were soaked but there was nothing we could do. We continued on, slipping and falling on our butts, and stepping thigh high into soft snow. It was quite the challenge getting to the top in these conditions. We even passed smaller falls and were curious to if we made it-but when we did make it, we knew it. The falls were much better than I expected and the snow frosted paths and stairs made it that much more fun. We took some pictures at the top, soaked in the mountain top views, and climbed the icy trails. I finally started to cool off and was able to put my winter layers back on. OH, another cool thing about this trip is that I got a wide angled lens that I was able to play with the whole time. The lens captured the forests, landscapes, and falls, without having to crop anything out.

After a good scenic time on top, we were ready to slide back down the mountain-literally. Mac had no problem on the snow, in fact he loved it. But we ended up sitting on our butts and sliding down the trails. It was efficient and fun. It's always fun to get cold, wet, and dirty, and not be able to do anything about it. It builds a layer to an experience, and makes you appreciate the environment you're in while you have the chance. While we were walking back, the sun started to set in the already gloomy sky and we were ready to eat. With over an hour and a half car ride back to Seattle, we decided to stop for burgers at a local bar for burgers and beer. The spot we found was so unexpected. We found a table near the gas fire place (much needed) and ordered fries and burgers that were prepared nicer than anything I have ever seen. It was the perfect post hike meal before the rest of the drive. I wish I caught the name of the restaurant, but it was perfect and will remain my secret spot :)