Deception Falls

Driving east along US 2 from Monroe, proceed approximately 10 miles past Skykomish to the signed Deception Falls picnic area, just to the west of the Bridge crossing immediately over Deception Falls. Park and find the stairs leading to the bridge spanning Deception Creek. The upper half of the falls is viewed from a observation deck a short distance further, with the lower half of the falls best seen 50 feet downstream.Aside from the fact that the cascade is hidden from view until you're driving right past it, Deception Falls isn't really that deceiving. While certainly nowhere near par for Alpine Lakes waterfalls, in terms of grandeur at least, it's a good rest stop while driving over Stevens Pass and a great waterfall to bring the kids to. Deception Creek crashes down a few steps, then glides over smooth rock under the highway and ends in a square, misty plunge before emptying into the Tye River. Some hiking books seem to make a big deal about this one, yet they ignore much more impressive waterfalls in the area such as those in the Foss River drainage. The falls become progressively less impressive as the season wears on, but because of their ease of access are a popular attraction throughout the year. The parking lot at the falls is gated closed between roughly October and April (but may vary depending on the snow pack).