Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park
Top 13 Waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park
Best waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park are fed by the park's glaciers and annual snowpack. This majestic landscape is dominated by its iconic volcano, offering diverse experiences for visitors. Many cascades provide views from easily accessible roadsides, while others require rewarding hikes through ancient forests. The park features numerous waterfalls, each with unique characteristics.
Best waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park
- The most popular waterfalls is Myrtle Falls Viewpoint, a viewpoint that offers a captivating 72-foot high waterfall with Mount Rainier as its backdrop. It is easily accessible from Paradise Inn, making it a popular spot for photographers and hikers.
- Another must-see spot is Little Waterfall, a waterfall found along the Skyline Trail. Visitors can admire rushing waterfalls fed by surrounding snowy mountains while crossing several stunning bridges over Edith Creek.
- Visitors also love Dead Horse Creek, a river with small waterfalls along the Skyline and Dead Horse Creek Trail. The tranquil ambience and opportunities to observe wildlife like marmots and chipmunks make it a notable experience.
- Mount Rainier National Park is known for its diverse waterfalls, including those fed by glaciers, roadside cascades, and impressive drops requiring a hike. The park offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from intimate settings to powerful, multi-tiered falls.
- The waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and 7 photos.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Little Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Dead Horse Creek
Highlight • River
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Golden Gate Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Myrtle Falls Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Narada Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Mount Rainier National Park
Wonderland Trail — 93 iconic miles around Mount Rainier
Wonderland Trail — 3-Day fastpacking through the dreamscape
Volcanic peaks and glistening shores – discover Oregon and Washington
The pristine beauty of the US National Parks
Hiking in Mount Rainier National Park
Cycling in Mount Rainier National Park
Road Cycling Routes in Mount Rainier National Park
MTB Trails in Mount Rainier National Park
Running Trails in Mount Rainier National Park
Other adventures in Mount Rainier National Park
Tips from the Community
I was recently looking for traditional Viennese restaurants and came across Restaurant Marienhof https://restaurant-marienhof.de/ . I particularly liked the combination of classic Viennese cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and the quiet courtyard garden. Such places show that traditional gastronomy still retains its special charm today. Those who want to enjoy authentic Austrian dishes and spend a relaxing evening in Vienna will find an interesting address there.
0
0
You'll want to ditch your bike to hustle down a few steps here, but it's worth it for the great view of Myrtle Falls with Rainier's summit as a backdrop.
0
0
Beautiful hiking area that is well signposted. There is a parking lot and a visitor center from where the hike can begin. You have to make sure you wear good clothes and, above all, good shoes. Very beautiful landscape and lots of nature and originality.
0
0
Narada Falls is a 168-foot waterfall fed from the Paradise River. There are two distinct tiers which make it very unique. Take a brief stroll below the road for the best viewing spot, but be mindful of the occasionally slippery path.
1
0
Make a short detour from the path and cross a small footbridge over the Edith Creek Basin to discover the captivating Myrtle Falls. With Mount Rainier as its backdrop, this 72-foot high waterfall is a popular spot for photographers and hikers. Its easy accessibility from Paradise Inn adds to its allure, making it an iconic destination worth exploring.
0
0
On this trail you will stroll through wildflower-filled alpine meadows, alongside a sparkling stream, and up a well-maintained, steep path. Don't miss the striking views of the Tatoosh Peaks and, on clear days, the distant sight of Mount Adams. Keep in mind that during peak season, this trail has heavy foot traffic.
1
0
Experience the beauty of the Skyline Trail as you cross several stunning bridges over Edith Creek. Here you can admire the rushing waterfalls, fed by the surrounding snowy mountains.
1
0
The tranquil ambience of Dead Horse Creek can be seen and heard as you hike up the Skyline and Dead Horse Creek Trail. There are small waterfalls along the way and keep an eye out for lively marmots and chipmunks. Remember, they are wild animals, so admire them from a safe distance.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easily accessible waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park?
For easy access, Myrtle Falls Viewpoint is a great choice, located a short, paved walk from Paradise Inn. Another easily viewed waterfall is Christine Falls, which can be seen from the road between Longmire and Paradise. Narada Falls is also highly accessible, with a short, steep walk to its base from the road to Paradise.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park?
The most spectacular time to visit is often in the spring, when winter snowmelt combines with rain, leading to powerful flows. However, deep snow can limit access to some trails until late July. Summer and early fall also offer excellent viewing opportunities with more accessible trails.
Are there family-friendly waterfall trails in Mount Rainier National Park?
Yes, several waterfalls are suitable for families. Myrtle Falls Viewpoint is considered family-friendly due to its easy accessibility. Silver Falls, located in the Ohanapecosh area, also offers a popular and family-friendly hike through a temperate rainforest.
What are some rewarding waterfall hikes for those looking for a longer trek?
For a more rewarding hike, consider the trail to Comet Falls. This impressive waterfall plunges 462 feet and the hike offers beautiful forest scenery. Another option is Spray Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the park, which requires a two-mile hike towards Spray Park followed by a spur trail.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park?
Beyond waterfall viewing, Mount Rainier National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including easy hikes like the Shadow Lake Trail or more challenging ones like the Comet Falls Trail. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the Sunrise Park Road available. For more details, explore the cycling guide and easy hikes guide for the park.
Which waterfalls offer iconic views with Mount Rainier in the background?
The most iconic view of this type is at Myrtle Falls Viewpoint. This 72-foot braided cascade provides a stunning foreground to the majestic Mount Rainier, making it a favorite for photographers.
Are there any waterfalls that are particularly unique or picturesque?
Christine Falls offers a charming and intimate viewing experience, framed by a historic arched bridge that gives it a fairy-tale appearance. Silver Falls is known for its captivating turquoise water, a result of natural minerals, making it quite unique.
What can I expect to see along the Skyline Trail regarding waterfalls?
Along the Skyline Trail, you can admire rushing waterfalls fed by the surrounding snowy mountains, especially as you cross several stunning bridges over Edith Creek. The trail also features Dead Horse Creek, which has small waterfalls and offers opportunities to observe wildlife.
Where can I find information about the current conditions or closures for Mount Rainier National Park waterfalls?
For the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, road closures, and any alerts that might affect your visit to the waterfalls, it's always best to check the official National Park Service website for Mount Rainier National Park. You can find general information about waterfalls at nps.gov.
Are there any waterfalls that are less crowded but still worth visiting?
Spray Falls, located in the less-traveled Mowich Lake area, is a magnificent veil-like waterfall that drops 354 feet. While it requires a hike, it offers a more secluded experience compared to some of the more popular roadside attractions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park?
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from easily accessible roadside views to rewarding hikes through ancient forests. The tranquil ambiance, opportunities to observe wildlife, and the stunning backdrop of Mount Rainier itself are often highlighted as favorite aspects.
Can I see multiple waterfalls on a single hike?
Yes, some trails offer views of multiple cascades. The hike to Comet Falls, for instance, features several waterfalls along the way. Additionally, the Skyline Trail crosses several bridges over Edith Creek, providing views of various rushing waterfalls.
Most popular routes in Mount Rainier National Park
Most popular attractions in Mount Rainier National Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park:
