The History of the Preston–Fall City Area in Washington
By Curt Cunningham

The stretch of land between Preston and Fall City, Washington, showcases a rich history shaped by natural forces and human ingenuity. From Ice Age rivers to early American railroads, this area provides a fascinating glimpse into the geological transformations and industrial progress that have defined the region. Here’s a closer look at how this remarkable four-mile canyon evolved from its prehistoric origins to become a critical route for travelers and industry alike.

1. Geological Formation: An Ice Age Legacy

The Preston–Fall City corridor exists as a narrow canyon carved out by the Raging River, which flows north through the area. During the last Ice Age, a blockage near Fall City diverted the Snohomish River southward to Preston, with both the Raging River and the redirected Snohomish River emptying into Issaquah Creek. This period of intense glacial and water activity deposited gravel in the Issaquah region, forming a geological foundation that is still present. As the ice receded, the Snohomish River returned to its northern flow, while the Raging River continued its northward path to Fall City, carving out a deep canyon and flows through lower Preston about 100 feet below Upper Preston which sits on a flat at the eastern end of the Highpoint Valley.

2. Railroad Development and Early Transportation (1885–1889)

In the late 19th century, the Seattle, Lakeshore & Eastern Railway Company undertook the ambitious task of connecting Seattle with eastern regions through the Snoqualmie Pass. Launched in April 1885, this effort included building a line that would eventually pass through Preston and the Raging River canyon, with the goal of linking Seattle to Spokane and other eastern destinations. Construction from Seattle to Issaquah began on March 1, 1887, reaching Issaquah by March 1888. By September, trains ran past Preston up to the Raging River bridge’s western end, which completed construction in early 1889.

The Raging River grade down through the canyon was built from Preston into the hillside on a downward slope to the bridge. The bridge itself was a marvel of engineering for its time, with a length of 853 feet and a towering height of 110 feet, making it the tallest bridge on the railway line. The structure provided critical transportation capabilities to the Snoqualmie Valley but also posed significant challenges due to its precarious location and height.

3. The 1900 Train Disaster on the Raging River Bridge

A tragic accident on May 15, 1900, brought national attention to the area. A logging train with eight loaded cars was crossing the Raging River bridge when it suddenly gave way, sending the train and its crew 110 feet to the canyon floor. Miraculously, none of the crew members were killed, though they suffered serious injuries. The cause of the collapse remains unclear, though some speculate that a log may have fallen from one of the cars, striking a structural timber and initiating the collapse. This incident highlighted both the risks and the resilience involved in operating early railroads through rugged terrain.

4. Transition from Rail to Road: The First Roads and Bridges (1889–1914)

With increased local settlement, road networks began to develop, expanding connectivity between towns. In 1889, the first road between Preston and Fall City, King County Road #205 (also called the H. H. Ludvigson Road), was completed. This wagon road ran near the Raging River, crossing it north of Preston via a wooden bridge and from there following close to what is now the Preston–Fall City Road.

In 1906 King County Road #615 known as the Smith & Parker Road was completed. This road is referred to as the Preston-Fall City Road and entered Fall City at its west end. A new bridge over the river was constructed and today this road is known as 328th Way SE. By 1914, King County Road #1008 was underway, connecting Issaquah and Fall City with an improved road. This development included a new concrete bridge over the Raging River, marking a significant upgrade from the wooden structure of earlier years. The 1914 bridge remains intact today, although it now primarily serves as an access route for nearby residents.

5. Modernization and Continued Improvements (1926–1951)

With increased automobile traffic in the 20th century, King County improved the Preston–Fall City highway, paving it with concrete in 1926 and eliminating hazardous curves to enhance safety. In 1951, a new bridge was constructed north of the previous concrete bridge to create a smoother route, providing a safer, more direct path across the Raging River. These modifications established the canyon road as a reliable, well-trafficked route, retaining much of its original alignment while making it safer for travelers.

6. Historical Remnants and Recreational Trails Today

Today, vestiges of the area’s rich history are still visible. A few sections of the old 1914 highway remain, including the concrete bridge south of the newer bridge, a section of the old 1914 road is now a driveway for Treehouse Point and another section across the main road which also serves as a driveway. 334th Ave. SE was also a section of the 1914 Highway. The original railroad grade can also be explored from Preston down to the site of the trestle and then down a path to the road and back up to the other side which continues on the old grade for another couple of miles.

Additionally, remnants of early roads, including Joseph Borst’s 1883 road which he built from the old Snoqualmie Wagon Road into the newly formed town. This small but yet historically significant section which is now repurposed as a walking trail. This path offers a direct connection to the region’s past, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of those who journeyed through this canyon over a century ago.

7. Conclusion: A Legacy of Natural Beauty and Human Innovation

The route between Preston and Fall City, stands as a testament to the powerful forces of nature and the persistence of human innovation. The canyon’s dark, narrow passage—carved by the river and navigated by pioneering railway and road builders—captures the rugged spirit of the Pacific Northwest’s history. From Ice Age gravel deposits to dramatic railroad mishaps, each chapter has contributed to making this area a distinctive landscape of both natural beauty and historical depth.

Today, the Preston–Fall City area serves as more than just a route—it’s a living museum, offering glimpses into a transformative past that shaped Washington’s roadways, railways, and communities.