The lower observation deck and boardwalk at Snoqualmie Falls is closed for the season, but other parts of the park remain open.
The Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Project is owned and operated by Puget Sound Energy, and the company will be completing maintenance on the boardwalk during the closure.
Visitors to the popular destination can still visit the upper observation area and walk the trail to and from the lower area, but cannot go on the boardwalk.
Jodi Daniels, retail manager who was working in the gift shop said there is still plenty to do at the park this fall, which she said is a more serene time to visit.
“People can still do the trail, still hike down to the bottom — they just can’t go out on to the boardwalk,” Daniels said.
“All the trees are changing colors right now,” she said. “At the upper observation deck you can see the waterfall and also look across the valley and see all the beautiful trees. A lot of people are visiting right now to get those fall photos.”
There is also an apiary of 12 beehives people can visit across the bridge by the upper parking lot. There they can meet the bees that make the honey that is served with the country breakfast at Salish Lodge, sold in the gift shop and used in various ways around the park, Daniels said.
“Come visit us, there’s everything for everybody,” she said. “It’s just a fun experience. A lot of people love it.”
In a statement, Puget Sound Energy Media engagement program manager Andrew Padula said, “The walkway to the lower observation deck at Snoqualmie Falls will be closed during the off-season (Labor Day to Memorial Day) for an in-depth inspection. Safety is a priority for Puget Sound Energy, and recent indications are that the boardwalk is in need of replacement or extensive repair. Maintaining a wood structure in this damp location has presented some unique challenges. We know this will be inconvenient for our visitors, but we thank you for your patience. The upper observation deck remains open for our visitors to enjoy.”
Information about the Snoqualmie Falls Hydroelectric Project can be found online at www.pse.com. Information about the park, gift shop and Salish Lodge can be found online at www.snoqualmiefalls.com.
