Snoqualmie Rivertrail
The Snoqualmie River is at the heart of the Snoqualmie Rivertrail project, which is in the planning and construction stages of a multi-phased, long-term recreational development. Phases of the concept will be considered over the coming decades.
The river is an important natural resource and plays an integral role in the connection of the various environmental, historical, tribal heritage, and recreational components that define the area’s ecosystem. The proposed Snoqualmie Rivertrail has been identified by the City of Snoqualmie in its Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan as a “destination trail loop” to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Location
The Snoqualmie Rivertrail is envisioned to connect from Snoqualmie Falls to Three Forks Natural Area with various types of trails and features along the north and south shores with landmarks including the Historic District, Borst Lake, and Meadowbrook Farm.
Timeline
- 2014 – Concept development, site analysis, workshops, and public open houses
- 2015 – Presentation and adoption of the Rivertrail Master Plan
- 2025 - Design and implementation of Phase I - Rivertrail NW of Sandy Cove which includes construction of one-mile of soft surface trails between Kimball Creek and Sandy Cove Park.
- 2026 - Completion of Rivertrail NW of Sandy Cove section and beginning of Rivertrail Arboretum section
Progress Update December 2025: Rivertrail NW of Sandy Cove
The Rivertrail NW of Sandy Cove project has progressed steadily since construction began in October 2025. The project remains on track, with substantial completion anticipated in Summer 2026. Work to date has focused on clearing the trail corridor and refining the final trail alignment to ensure safe and sustainable routing through the site.
Significant progress has also been made on the two pedestrian bridges that will span wetland areas, with construction activities underway on both structures. As part of the trail preparation, several trees were removed because they either fell within the only feasible trail alignment, posed safety hazards, or were identified as invasive species. Overall, the project continues to advance as planned, with upcoming efforts focused on completing structural components and preparing the trail surface for installation.
The contractor will continue site preparation for the trail segment nearest the historic downtown area. Work will also begin on constructing the bioswale and associated stormwater management systems. In addition, preparations are underway for the next phase of bridge work, including setting up and initiating construction of the bridge foundations.
Benefits of the Rivertrail
The proposed Snoqualmie Rivertrail has been identified by the City of Snoqualmie in its Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan as a “destination trail loop” to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The Snoqualmie River is at the heart of the Riverwalk project. It is an important natural resource and plays an integral role in the connection of the various development and environmental components that define the area’s ecosystem.
- Re-connect the city to the Snoqualmie River and its distinct riverside identity
- Increase public access and enjoyment of the Snoqualmie River
- Act as a key new component to the City’s recreational infrastructure
- Offer a loop system and public spaces for a variety of programs
- Connect to regional trails and lands beyond
- Encourage Snoqualmie Falls visitors to extend their visit in Snoqualmie
- Be eco-friendly, sustainable and preserve a sense of being in the wilderness
- Be flood-friendly and gravitate around the water
The Rivertrail's Role in Economic Development
The Rivertrail development is viewed as a key component to the City’s goals of a having a healthy, diverse economy that includes being recognized as a tourism destination with a distinctive sense of place. Snoqualmie’s historic downtown has been carefully preserved and regulations are in place to ensure that new development acts as a complement to the established form and character.
As a journey and a destination, the Rivertrail could:
- Optimize the quality of experience being offered
- Benefit the local economy and quality of life for the residents of Snoqualmie
- Complement and act as a catalyst to current and future tourism amenities, facilities and programming in the region
- Cater to all season use and anticipate visitor desire
- Avoid “Disneyfication"
Rivertrail Master Plan
The purpose of the Rivertrail Master Plan is to illustrate and describe the conceptual design and planning elements of the Rivertrail. It acts as a guide to development of this key, Snoqualmie-centered, community amenity, outlining the trail system’s phased implementation in a methodical and environmentally sustainable manner.
To fully understand the Rivertrail Master Plan and all its complex elements, please review the concept plan to learn about the study area; site plan and analysis; multi-phased locations and features; land ownership; environmental impacts and sustainability; respect for historical tribal activities; sensitive development opportunities; access points; trail types; parking plan; myriad illustrations, aerial conceptualizations, and photographs; and much more.