On my recent trip to Washington, I visited two National Parks - Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Of course, I did a little research before visiting, so I was sure to not miss anything. The most incredible views I saw when visiting Washington were waterfalls.
Here's my list of waterfalls not to miss in Washington.
Marymere Falls - Olympic NP
To get to the falls, you hike an easy 1.8-mile trail through the beautiful forest. At the end of the trail is Marymere Falls, a 90-ft high waterfall. It is absolutely breathtaking and chilly up close.
Cougar Falls - Mount Rainier NP
I almost missed this spot, so be sure to keep a look-out.
Ruby Falls - Mount Rainier NP
Height: 52 Feet | Form: Tiered Plunges
Another quick stop with beautiful views. One wonders if this waterfall was named for a lady, as several waterfalls inside the park have been named for ladies. Ruby Falls is located where the original Longmire-Paradise road crossed the Paradise River (just below the falls). Parking is limited near this waterfall.
Narada Falls - Mount Rainier NP
Height: 176 feet | Form: Horsetail
This was a short little hike down a staircase to get to the view point. From the Nisqually Entrance to the park, follow the road 14 miles to a signed viewpoint and parking lot. At 176 feet high, the falls have two distinct features: the top tier, and tallest at 159 feet is a horsetail fall, so described because it has multiple channels down the rock face.
Ohanapecosh River - Mount Rainier NP
The next stop was the Ohanapecosh River. It was a little chilly down by the water and yes, the water was freezing cold as well. This was an amazing place to be at, and it was beyond peaceful. The water swiftly moved through the rocks down stream and the tall mossy trees swayed with the cold breeze. There are many trains along the river to hike and camping is also available. This place is on my camping list next.
Christine Falls Bridge - Mount Rainier NP
Height: 69 feet | Form: Tiered Plunges
From the Nisqually entrance of the park, drive 10.7 miles, just past the Comet Falls trailhead, to a small parking area. A short set of stairs leads to the falls overlook. The bridge was built in 1927–1928 by contractor J.D. Tobin of Portland, Oregon, who built the Narada Falls Bridge at the same time.
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