Feel the Thunder!

Capturing this mighty 260' water fall is one thing, but having a few fisherman casting near the base of it for reference is just too good to be true! The hike down and back up from the upper parking lot to the base of Snoqualmie Falls is not for the faint of heart - especially with a backpack full of gear. The falls and surrounding hillsides create a natural rain forest effect so the vegetation and colors of the moss and flowers lining the trail are breath taking. It also makes for very slippery footing - so be careful!

The force and power at which the water cascades over the falls is mind boggling. And did I say loud and intimidating!? It is quite a vertical descent down the rain forest-like walking trail from the upper parking to the power station located at the base of the fall. It's then a short walk over a very narrow boardwalk surrounded by wire mesh to a viewing platform next to the power station, where the above image was captured. That spot gets you a 'nice' view of the falls but if you really want the 'Dolby Cinematic Surround Sound' effect, up close and personal, that requires a bit more effort to step clear of the platform and make your way closer in.  

Late afternoon is the perfect time to make your way down as the sun settles up the river from the west edge, creating some fantastic photo opportunities. It is a bit of a challenge to find the 'perfect' spot to shoot from, plus you have to be mindful of the constant spray and mist. Protecting your expensive photo gear is a must! And how lucky to have 2 guys standing on a couple of the larger boulders at the base of the fall, trying their luck at fishing. I had no idea that you could fish in this environment.  Heck - I figured the poor fish would get pummeled to death by the crashing water and debris coming over the fall!

Aside from the obvious mist and spray, the sound of the water crashing from this height is something you don't easily forget. The sound was deafening and frankly, intimating to be that close to it. Not sure I saw either of these guys catch anything but honestly, that experience pales in comparison to the awesome power of mother nature.

     'The journey of discovery is not in seeing new lands, but seeing with new eyes'.