Iconic Waterfalls and Hiking Trails near Packwood, Washington

Iconic Waterfalls and Hiking Trails near Packwood, Washington

By Tracy S.

Tracy writes for TMC Vacation Rentals, sharing travel planning tips and exciting things to do during your PNW vacation.

Adventures in the great outdoors are some of the most celebrated ways to experience the Pacific Northwest. During your next visit, consider adding a few of the iconic waterfalls and hiking trails near Packwood, Washington, to your itinerary. Whether you prefer a roadside vista of plummeting falls or a rigorous hike with a bounty of natural wonder, there is something for everyone.  

Join us as we explore six waterfalls and trails that are each within approximately one hour of Packwood. Grab your camera and your hiking gear. It’s time to be awe-struck by the majestic beauty of Mount Rainier National Park, Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Goat Rock Wilderness, and beyond. 

Our TMC Vacation Rentals are the ideal basecamp for hikers and waterfall chasers. With accommodations in all shapes and sizes, we are the perfect choice for families, groups of friends, couples, and solo travelers. Just a short drive from your PNW cabin, you will find a myriad of popular cascades and hidden gems to explore! 

In this article:

• Being prepared for hiking
• Packwood Lake & Pipeline Road Trail
• High Rock Lookout Trail
• Silver Falls Loop
• Narada Falls
• Christine Falls
• Comet Falls via Van Trump Trail
• Additional Noteworthy Waterfalls

Be Prepared for Adventure

Late spring and summer offer some of the best conditions for outdoor adventures near Packwood. During this time of year, you can expect rocky terrain, slippery rocks, and fast-moving water from snowmelt. The colder months can also be enjoyed if you are properly prepared. Snowy conditions, road closures, and trail closures require more planning, but it’s a beautiful time of year to visit. Trails are typically covered in snow, so proper gear is required. Poles, spikes, jackets, waterproof pants, and thermal hiking boots are recommended. Regardless of when you venture out, though, you’re bound for an unforgettable trip.

Hiking Trails 

Packwood Lake & Pipeline Road Trail 

Just 6 miles from downtown Packwood, you will find the Packwood Lake & Pipeline Road Trails. This well-loved trail system offers a loop hike to Packwood Lake in both the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and the Goat Rocks Wilderness. Trek through old-growth forests, sit beside a pristine mountain lake, and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Rainier. Hikers will encounter several seasonal waterfalls and modest cascades flowing down the cliffs, especially during the spring and early summer. The trail is mostly snow-free from late May through October. 

• Hike length: 7.8 miles, round-trip loop 
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 
• Elevation gain: 1,145 feet 

High Rock Lookout Trail  

The High Rock Lookout Trail offers one of the best views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding area. To reach the trailhead, hikers traverse a 9-mile gravel road that is reported to be extremely rough and full of potholes. Vehicles with high clearance are recommended. Once on the trail, you can expect a steep incline with plenty of rocky terrain. This epic trail is typically snow-free from late May through October. 

• Hike length: 3.3 miles, out & back 
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard 
• Elevation gain: 1,328 feet 

Start Planning Your Getaway to the PNW Today! Book a Cozy Cabin or Comfy Chateau for Your Stay.

Silver Falls Loop 

Located within Mount Rainier National Park and in the Ohanapecosh area, you will find the Silver Falls Loop. Just 10 miles from Packwood, this is an easy-rated, 3-mile loop with one of the most iconic waterfalls in the region. The trail runs alongside the Ohanapecosh River and then crosses a bridge, offering incredible views of Silver Falls. This is a family-friendly hike with plenty of photo-worthy views. The rocks are very slippery, and the currents are swift. This makes entering the water very dangerous, so please observe the falls from a safe distance.  

• Hike length: 3 miles, round-trip loop 
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate 
• Elevation gain: 518 feet 

Narada Falls 

Narada Falls is located approximately 1 hour from Packwood and 1 mile from Paradise. This spectacular natural wonder sits only 150 feet from the road to Paradise and is the tallest (168 feet) waterfall accessible by car within Mount Rainier National Park. The falls and parking areas are open year-round, allowing guests to visit at any time.  

There is a viewpoint for the top of the falls that is easy to access from the parking lot. Those who wish to see the lower section of the falls can hike the steep, 0.2-mile trail (0.4 round trip) to the bottom of the falls. Expect a 200-foot descent/ascent that is often slippery. From here, you can see the entire Narada Falls. Witness the power of the Paradise River as it drops over stunning rock formations, offering unparalleled vistas. 

Note: This trail connects to the 97-mile Around-the-Mountain Wonderland Trail.

• Hike length: 0.4 miles, round-trip 
• Difficulty: Moderate—due to steep descent/ascent 
• Elevation gain: 200 feet 

Christine Falls 

Located on Van Trump Creek along the road to the Paradise area, this 60-foot waterfall drops in two tiers and is a jewel of Mount Rainier National Park. In addition to the beautiful cascades, Christine Falls is also known for its picturesque, arched stone bridge. The historic structure was built in 1928 and continues to span the lower drop today. It is one of the most photographed spots in the park and an iconic piece of National Park history. 

Visitors can easily access the falls by parking in the marked lot and walking the short path to the viewpoint. Christine Falls is located just 4.5 miles from Longmire and 0.2 miles from the Comet Falls parking area.  

• Hike length: Short walk from the parking area 
• Difficulty: Easy 
• Elevation gain: 0 feet 

Comet Falls via Van Trump Trail   

This popular summertime hike features a 1.8-mile hike (one-way) to the base of Comet Falls via the Van Trump Trail. Located approximately 4 miles east of Longmire on the road to Paradise, the parking areas are limited and fill up quickly. Arrive early and have an alternative hike planned if parking is unavailable.  

Comet Falls, one of the tallest in Mount Rainier National Park, got its name because the cascades resemble the tail of a comet. At 300 feet tall, it is worth the hike to see the impressive falls.  

The hike requires a steady uphill climb, with a total elevation gain of 1,288 feet. Hikers should be in good physical condition for this hike and can expect incredible scenery and wildlife. You may see marmots, pikas, and even mountain goats. 

• Hike Length: 3.6 miles, out & back 
• Difficulty: Hard 
• Elevation gain: 1,288 feet 

Additional Noteworthy Waterfalls to Explore

• Yodi Falls 
• Myrtle Falls 
• Hopkins Creek Falls 
• Tatoosh Trail Falls 
• Grant Purcell Falls 
• Camp Creek Falls 

Book Your PNW Getaway with TMC Vacation Rentals

Whether you are planning a relaxing retreat or an action-packed escape, TMC Vacation Rentals is here to provide the ideal accommodation for your journey. We offer a wide selection of cozy cabins, amazing A-frames, and luxurious lodges. 

After a long day of hiking or exploring the area, soak your tired muscles in the hot tub at your rental and gaze up at the gorgeous night sky. We also offer a collection of homes that are pet-friendly, which means your four-legged best friend can also join in on the fun. 

Antler Ridge (pictured above) is a fabulous option for those looking for a lodge in the woods while still wanting modern amenities. With 4 bedrooms and room for up to 12 guests, it is the ideal family retreat. Features include a private hot tub, spacious decks, a wood-burning fireplace, Starlink, and more. There is even hiking right on the property! 

Make Your Reservations Today! Summer Stays are Going Fast.