Rushing snow melt hurtles off a 460+ foot cliff into a grand exposion of sound and water, mist unfurls across the river valley floor. Or, in other words - took a quick trip to see Snoqualmie Falls. The Falls are the second most popular nature attraction in the Seattle area (immediately behind Mount Rainer). From the parking lot, you can walk to an observation deck for a clear view of the falls; they are taller than Niagra Falls, btw. Then, you can hike 1/2 mile down a steep trail to the lower observation deck for a closer view.

After hiking (pant, pant) to admire both the fall and hydro-electric power plant, we headed to Snoqualmie's downtown. Excellent lunch at the Mexican restaurant; the food was good and the bathrooms sparkled. The deep fried ice cream was good, but I still prefer El Territos - somehow, the crust just seems crispier, there. And...it's all about the deep fried crust. :)

Walking across the street, we noticed a display of railway cars. After a few photo ops, we talked to one of the conductors and discovered the train actually runs on the weekends. So, we hopped on and enjoyed locomotive transportation - the train runs from Snoqualmie to North Bend and back; the roundtrip is about an hour. There is a spur of track that takes you to the right side of Snoqualmie Falls. very nice photo opportunity. (Yes, I have guests - A & M are in town)

Very nice day. Tomorrow, a trip to Salty's on Alki.