Marymere Falls Trail Lake Crescent Olympic National Park
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Marymere Falls Trail Lake Crescent Olympic National Park

4.8
·2k reviews·Port Angeles, United States

An easy 1.8-mile hike through a mossy old-growth forest to a spectacular 90-foot waterfall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Morning

Fewer crowds, peaceful forest

CrowdLow
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Marymere Falls Trail Lake Crescent Olympic National Park

Marymere Falls Trail Lake Crescent Olympic National Park

Best Time

Early Morning

Fewer crowds, peaceful forest

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An easy 1.8-mile hike through a mossy old-growth forest to a spectacular 90-foot waterfall.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"The hike to the falls is incredible! A very well maintained trail meanders through dense old growth forest."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds by arriving before 9 AM for a more serene experience.

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail can be moist and muddy; good shoes are a must.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Marymere Falls

Marymere Falls

End of the trail

A majestic 90-foot waterfall cascading through a moss-laden old-growth forest.

TikTokInstagram
Old-Growth Forest

Old-Growth Forest

Along the trail

Wander through towering trees draped in moss, creating a magical, almost 'Twilight' atmosphere.

TikTokReddit
Scenic Bridges

Scenic Bridges

Along the trail

Charming wooden bridges cross streams, adding to the fairytale charm of the hike.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for a Serene Experience

Marymere Falls is a popular spot, especially for its easy access and stunning waterfall. To enjoy the tranquility, aim for early mornings or weekdays. The trail can get busy, so arriving before 9 AM is recommended for a more peaceful walk through the old-growth forest. Reddit

Trail Conditions & What to Wear

The trail is generally well-maintained and easy, with a steeper section near the falls. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the path can be moist and muddy, especially after rain. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Early Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful forest
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Footage of Marymere Falls from August 2024 #marymerefalls #washington #pnw #pacificnorthwest #traveltok
@ethan_sleeper
137.8K likes • 618.1K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds by arriving before 9 AM for a more serene experience. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail can be moist and muddy; good shoes are a must. Reddit

No complaints about the view at the end of this hike!! #explore #explorewashington #olympicnationalpark #olympicnationalforest #chasingwaterfalls #marymerefalls #breathtakingviews #waterfall #Hiking
@kelseyculbert22
58.3K likes • 530.2K views
Just steps from Lake Crescent Lodge, the hike to Marymere Falls is one of Olympic National Park’s most magical adventures. A short trail winds through mossy old-growth forest cradling a stunning 90-foot waterfall. #MarymereFalls #LakeCrescent #olympicnationalpark
vibrantcompass
11 likes • 225 views

📸 Plenty of Photo Ops

The forest and falls offer numerous stunning photo opportunities. Reddit

⬆️ Steep Climb to Falls

The last 100 yards to the falls are steep but rewarding. Reddit

Winter hiking at the beautiful Marymere Falls 📍Olympic National Park 🌲 Kid-approved trail with cool bridges 🥾1.7 miles out-and-back 🏔️ 300’ in elevation 🅿️ America the Beautiful pass required #pacificnorthwest #olympicnationalpark #pnwmom
adventuring.with.kate
710 likes • 40.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Peace

Beat the crowds by arriving before 9 AM for a more serene experience. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail can be moist and muddy; good shoes are a must. Reddit

📸 Plenty of Photo Ops

The forest and falls offer numerous stunning photo opportunities. Reddit

⬆️ Steep Climb to Falls

The last 100 yards to the falls are steep but rewarding. Reddit

🌲 Follow Trail Markings

Avoid accidentally joining longer, strenuous trails like Storm King. Reddit

🚗 Parking at Ranger Station

Park at the Storm King Ranger Station for easy trail access. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Marymere Falls trail for its stunning old-growth forest and the impressive 90-foot waterfall. The easy-to-moderate hike, with its charming bridges and moss-laden trees, is a major draw. While the final approach to the falls is steep, most find the effort well worth it. Some note that the trail can get crowded, recommending early visits for a more peaceful experience.

"The hike to the falls is incredible! A very well maintained trail meanders through dense old growth forest with dozens of evergreen trees with heights of 200 feet plus, and girths of ten feet in some cases. The trail is quite easy until the very last 100 yards to the falls which is steep and rough. I thought the prettiest view was from under the foot bridge where the roughest portion of the trail begins."

lance hanson

"The trail was very well maintained and amazing! It is a trial that keeps giving through and through. The lichen covers trees are fabulous! If you’ve seen or read the twilight saga, this trail looks like the locations where you might meet with Edward Cullen on a serious note though, the trail offers great views along the way and is flat for the most part. The last few steps of the trail have a steep elevation gain as you inch closer to the falls, and the waterfalls are just stunning! There were a few people along the trail but it was not super packed! However I did notice an increase in crowd as time passed. If you want a more secluded experience and avoid large crowds, early in the day would be a good time to do the trail. I think I was there around 8:15-8:30 AM, and it was pretty good. The weather was also pleasant. It drizzled a little in the beginning and stopped, and given the tree cover, I couldn’t feel the drizzle. There are a couple of side trails that lead to more strenuous hikes like the storm king trail, for example. So carefully following the AllTrails directions as well as the trail markings can prevent accidentally moving to a harder trail.

In my opinion, this is an easy hike. :)"

Vyshnavi Vennelakanti

"What a beautiful trial! I could definitely come back here again. Unfortunately the waterfall wasn’t in its prime when I went because I tree had obviously fallen into the drop of it and made a funny, but not as picturesque scene. Anyway, the hike itself over all is well worth it and I would do it again for sure. Make sure to take some good shoes you wouldn’t mind getting dirty because it is a moist state and that’s just what to expect I guess. Take your time and appreciate all this trail has to offer, bridges, large trees, moss, and more!"

Lydia Fink

What People Like

Magical old-growth forest
Impressive 90-foot waterfall
Well-maintained trail

What People Dislike

Steep final section
Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The drive from Seattle to Marymere Falls takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Take I-5 North towards Everett, then US-2 West towards Monroe. Continue on US-2 West to WA-9 North, then WA-20 West. Follow signs for US-101 South towards Port Angeles and Lake Crescent. The trailhead is near Lake Crescent at the Storm King Ranger Station. TikTokInstagram

Public transport options to Marymere Falls are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling if traveling with others. TikTok

The most convenient parking is at the Storm King Ranger Station, which is the primary trailhead for Marymere Falls. Instagram+1

Yes, an America the Beautiful Pass or an Olympic National Park entrance pass is required for parking. Instagram

Yes, the trail can be accessed from Lake Crescent Lodge, making it a convenient option if you are staying nearby. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Marymere Falls is located within Olympic National Park, so an entrance fee is required. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance stations or online. An America the Beautiful Pass covers entry to all national parks. Instagram

Marymere Falls and its trail are accessible year-round during daylight hours. The park itself does not have set operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment. TikTok

No, advance booking for Marymere Falls is not required. However, arriving early, especially on weekends or holidays, is highly recommended to secure parking and avoid crowds. Reddit

The trail is generally open year-round. However, it's always a good idea to check the Olympic National Park website for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance before your visit. Instagram

Standard national park regulations apply. Stay on marked trails, do not feed wildlife, and pack out everything you pack in. Dogs are not permitted on the Marymere Falls trail. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike to Marymere Falls is approximately 1.8 miles round trip. It's considered an easy to moderate hike, with a steeper section near the end. TikTokInstagramReddit

The trail has an elevation gain of about 300 feet. The majority of the trail is relatively flat, with a steeper incline in the final stretch to the falls. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Marymere Falls trail is very family-friendly. It's a relatively short hike with beautiful scenery, and kids often enjoy the bridges and the impressive waterfall. InstagramReddit

You'll experience a magical old-growth forest with towering, moss-covered trees, lush ferns, and several charming wooden bridges. The highlight is, of course, the stunning 90-foot Marymere Falls. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Restroom facilities are typically available at the Storm King Ranger Station, which serves as the main trailhead. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more magical atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the forest and the waterfall. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth out the water. TikTok

The area at the base of the falls offers a great perspective. Also, consider the viewpoints from the bridges and the mossy forest sections for unique shots. Reddit

Drone usage is restricted in most national parks, including Olympic National Park, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the NPS website for current drone regulations. TikTok

Look for the intricate details of the moss-covered trees, the reflections in the streams, and the play of light filtering through the dense canopy. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marymere Falls is an excellent choice for families. The trail is generally easy and short, making it manageable for younger children. Instagram The enchanting old-growth forest, complete with mossy trees and charming bridges, sparks imagination and wonder. InstagramReddit The 90-foot waterfall at the end is a fantastic reward for little legs. Remember to wear appropriate footwear as the trail can be damp, and keep an eye on children, especially on the steeper final section leading to the falls. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers

For solo travelers or those on a day trip to Olympic National Park, Marymere Falls offers a highly rewarding experience with minimal time commitment. The 1.8-mile round trip hike is easily completed in under an hour, leaving plenty of time to explore other nearby attractions like Lake Crescent. TikTok Arriving early is key to enjoying the peaceful forest and waterfall without the hustle of larger groups. Reddit It's a perfect spot to connect with nature and capture stunning photos. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Marymere Falls and its surrounding forest a dream location. The dramatic lighting filtering through the dense canopy, the vibrant mosses, and the powerful cascade of the waterfall provide endless opportunities. TikTokReddit Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the ancient trees and a tripod for capturing the silky smooth effect of the falling water. TikTok The bridges also offer unique framing opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon light can create a truly magical atmosphere for your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Old-Growth Forest

The trail to Marymere Falls winds through a breathtaking old-growth forest, a true highlight for many visitors. Towering trees, some estimated to be hundreds of years old and with massive girths, are draped in vibrant green moss and lichens. This lush environment creates a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere, often compared to the mystical settings of the 'Twilight' saga. TikTokReddit The dense canopy filters sunlight, casting a soft, diffused glow on the forest floor, making it feel like stepping into another world. The air is often cool and damp, carrying the scent of pine and rich earth. TikTok

Understanding the Trail and Waterfall

Marymere Falls Trail is an approximately 1.8-mile round trip hike with about 300 feet of elevation gain. TikTokInstagram For the majority of the hike, the trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. However, the final stretch leading directly to the falls becomes noticeably steeper and can be rougher underfoot. Reddit The waterfall itself is a spectacular 90-foot cascade. While the main trail leads to a viewing area, some reviewers mention that the most picturesque view might be from under the footbridge where the steepest part of the trail begins. Reddit It's important to follow trail markings carefully, as side trails can lead to more challenging hikes like the Storm King Trail. Reddit

Best Times for a Peaceful Visit

Due to its popularity, Marymere Falls can get crowded, especially during peak season and on weekends. Reddit To experience the trail's tranquility, visiting early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM, is highly recommended. Reddit Weekdays also tend to be less busy than weekends. Reddit Some visitors have noted an increase in crowds as the day progresses, so an early start ensures a more secluded experience. Reddit Even with crowds, the sheer beauty of the forest and falls often leaves visitors impressed. Reddit

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