The mighty falls roar at Snoqualmie — Photo courtesy of Salish Lodge & Spa/GreenRubino

Only about 40 minutes from Seattle, a popular attraction gushes, showing off the mightiness of Mother Nature. Fans of the early-90's cult classic Twin Peaks will no doubt recognize Snoqualmie’s powerful cascades from the series’ opening credits.

Thanks to the falls’ accessibility and “wow” factor, more than 1.5 million visitors arrive annually at the 270-foot waterfall, believed by the Snoqualmie Tribe to be humanity’s place of origin. A family-friendly and (leashed) pet-friendly, 0.7-mile interpretive trail runs from the upper falls to lower falls viewpoints. 

Visitors arrive to ogle, wander and photograph the stunning natural wonder, but they also relish cozying up inside the delightful Salish Lodge & Spa, especially at this festive time of year. 

The lodge's dining room offers sensational views — Photo courtesy of Salish Lodge & Spa/GreenRubino

Originally called the Snoqualmie Falls Lodge, the venue was built in 1916 as an eight-room inn that served as a rest stop for weary travelers. It quickly became known for its country breakfasts, nourishing visitors before they ventured over the mountain pass.

Today, the luxury retreat boasts 84 guest rooms, each with an oversized jetted tub and fireplace. Many also offer stunning views of the Snoqualmie River.

Guests come for the rustic-chic accommodations, activities like yoga overlooking the falls and pampering sessions in the decadent spa, where they can indulge in Pacific Northwest-focused treatments that feature herbs from the property's organic garden and honey from its onsite apiary.

At mealtime, you can indulge in delicious fare from the hotel's two locally-sourced restaurants – The Dining Room and The Attic, a more casual option that serves wood-fired pizza and sandwiches. 

The lodge sparkles especially brightly at this time of year — Photo courtesy of Salish Lodge & Spa/GreenRubino

This year's holiday season kicks off with the fifth annual lighting of the dazzling 20-foot tree. The jovial ceremony begins Saturday, December 5, at 4:30 pm and includes live entertainment, hot chocolate and cookies, among other tempting draws. 

Continue in the seasonal merriment during the Holiday Celebration Menu that begins December 21, and lasts until January 4, 2016. It runs Sunday to Thursday from 5 to 9 pm and Friday to Saturday from 5 to 10 pm; reservations are required.

The festive holiday meals, served in the inviting Dining Room, feature delicious classics like a New York strip and pan-seared salmon as well as comfort food favorites like truffle roasted cauliflower and roasted pork belly.

On weekends from December 5 through December 20 and daily from December 26 through December 30, feel like royalty during the lodge's afternoon tea sessions. The full tea service includes an assortment of gourmet tea sandwiches, scones with fruit preserves and other sweet and savory bites, some featuring Salish honey from the hotel's very own worker bees.