Bridal Veil Falls, Washington

Situated under the crags of Mount Index, Bridal Veil Falls is a truly spectacular sight. Water tumbles down countless granite slabs, totaling an impressive 1,328 feet, with each fall thundering on the rocks below, spraying hikers as they climb right to the base of the cascade. Even late into the summer when many waterfalls are reduced to a trickle, this one is still in full swing. The 2-mile trail to Bridal Veil Falls has a very mild start, meandering through moss-covered alder, maple, and fir trees and crossing small streams. After 1.5 miles the trail parts ways with the trail to Lake Serene and begins a short but steep ascent. For a half mile, follow flights of stairs and wooden bridges toward the sound of rushing water until you reach the falls. For the full experience, climb over rocks to the base of the falls, feeling the gusting spray and hearing nothing but the roar of water. Due to the popularity of this hike, it gets very crowded on weekends, so parking might be in short supply. On weekdays the crowds are more manageable, especially early in the morning.