Why the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe seeks regulation of popular falls airspace

At least one local helicopter tour company will no longer take customers over Snoqualmie Falls, out of respect.

The Snoqualmie Indian Tribe wants air tourism to stay away from the sacred site, a 268-foot waterfall, and has asked the federal government to step in.

Snoqualmie Falls is a popular tourist destination, with its scenic views and trails. But its popularity has also attracted planes, helicopter tours, and drones that hover above the falls. The Snoqualmie Indian Tribe says aircraft are upsetting tribal members who come to the falls to connect to their ancestors.

“I think that people can easily see the significance of this place, whether or not they understand the significance to a Snoqualmie tribal member,” says Snoqualmie Indian Tribe Assistant Director of Governmental Affairs and Special Projects McKenna Sweet Dorman.