Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest
Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest
5.0
(16)
144
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest offers diverse waterfall hiking trails across its 2,000-acre landscape. The region features dense woodlands, including old-growth Douglas fir and hemlock stands, alongside picturesque lakes, wetlands, streams, and ponds. Elevations range from 600 to 2,000 feet, providing varied terrain from gentle paths to steeper grades. This environment supports a rich ecosystem, making it suitable for year-round exploration.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(2)
43
hikers
9.10km
02:33
170m
170m
The Little Mashel Falls Trail is a fantastic moderate hike near Eatonville, Washington, offering a lush forest experience culminating in three distinct waterfalls. You'll wander through towering Douglas firs and…
7
hikers
8.74km
02:26
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(12)
76
hikers
6.91km
01:54
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.32km
00:21
0m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Deschutes Falls Trail, a short 0.8-mile (1.3 km) route that takes about 20 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain…
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The most challenging waterfall to get to for Little Mashel Falls. Be prepared for narrow paths, lots of mud, and downed trees.
1
0
An amazing view overlooking the Middle Falls. A bit tricky to find the path from the Middle Falls lower part, but it's about 50-100 feet from the stairs to the waterfall itself. Look for a moss covered trail marker about 3 feet high, 30 feet into the trail.
2
0
Bring a raincoat because you'll be getting sprayed! Also consider bringing hiking poles as it can get muddy and slippery. There's a path on the right side to go near the back of the waterfall for a unique view. The path to the higher view of the middle falls is tricky to spot. There is a moss covered trail marker about 30 feet into the trail.
1
0
Bring a raincoat, because at the bottom you'll be so close you'll be getting sprayed! Recommend to bring hiking poles, as it can be very muddy and slippery. There are stairs in parts, but they're not in great condition.
1
0
There are 5 dedicated waterfall hiking trails in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
The waterfall hikes in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest primarily range from easy to moderate. You'll find 1 easy route, such as the Deschutes Falls Trail, and 4 moderate options, including the Little Mashel Falls Trail. There are no difficult trails listed in this guide.
The waterfalls are often at their most impressive during the spring months, following snowmelt and seasonal rains. However, the diverse forest ecosystems and water features make for a beautiful hike year-round, with varying flows depending on recent precipitation.
Yes, the Deschutes Falls Trail is an easy option, perfect for families looking for a shorter walk to a scenic waterfall. Its minimal elevation gain makes it accessible for most ages and fitness levels.
The terrain around the waterfalls varies. You can expect well-maintained forest paths, some gravel roads, and potentially some steeper grades, especially on moderate routes. The forest features diverse landscapes, from dense woodlands to picturesque streams, ensuring a varied hiking experience.
While the guide does not specify dog-friendly status for each individual route, many trails in the Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest generally permit dogs on leash. It's always best to check local signage or the specific trail's regulations before heading out with your canine companion.
Yes, for a moderate loop experience that includes forest scenery, consider the Hiking loop from UW Eatonville Pack Forest. While not exclusively focused on waterfalls, it offers a substantial walk through the diverse landscapes of the forest, which includes various water features.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 16 ratings. Hikers often praise the serene environment, the beauty of the old-growth forests, and the refreshing presence of water features like streams and waterfalls.
Parking is generally available at trailheads or designated areas within the Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or by checking the forest's official visitor information, such as Visit Rainier's Pack Forest Trails page.
Yes, two prominent waterfalls featured in this guide are Little Mashel Falls, accessible via the Little Mashel Falls Trail, and Deschutes Falls, which you can visit on the Deschutes Falls Trail. Both offer distinct experiences within the forest.
Given the varied terrain and potential for wet conditions near waterfalls, we recommend sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Layers of clothing are advisable, as weather can change, and a waterproof jacket is always a good idea, especially during spring or fall when rainfall is more common.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.