Located in the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier National Park, the trailhead for Myrtle Falls is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all skill levels and young children. Begin your journey at the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center, where you can obtain maps for other hikes throughout Mt. Rainier National Park, information, and any necessary snacks before setting out on the trail.
Here you will also encounter the iconic stone steps that lead to the beauty of the trail with Mt. Rainier looking down on you (sometimes hiding behind the clouds). These steps not only guide your journey but serve as a reminder of the allure of this special place. John Muir, the renowned naturalist and conservationist, eloquently stated, "...the most luxuriant and the most extravagantly beautiful of all the alpine gardens I ever beheld in all my mountain-top wanderings."
The hike to Myrtle Falls is a short and relatively easy one, spanning approximately 1.2 miles round trip. The trail meanders through lush alpine meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers during the summer months, offering a glimpse into the park's diverse ecosystem. As you ascend gently along the well-maintained path, be sure to pause and take in the breathtaking vistas of Mt. Rainier towering majestically in the distance. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as marmots, deer, and even the occasional mountain goat as you make your way towards the falls.
Upon reaching Myrtle Falls, you are rewarded with a magnificent display of cascading water plunging over rugged cliffs into a crystal-clear pool below. The sight and sound of the rushing water create a serene ambiance; linger and savor the moment.
During the spring and early summer months, when snowmelt swells the mountain streams, Myrtle Falls is at its most impressive, boasting a powerful flow and lush surrounding vegetation. However, the falls are a sight to behold year-round, each season offering its own unique charm and beauty.
Tips for this hike:
-While the hike to Myrtle Falls is relatively short and well-marked, it's always a good idea to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on your journey. Conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so come prepared with appropriate gear and clothing.
-Help preserve the natural beauty of Myrtle Falls and its surroundings by practicing Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife and vegetation.
My first visit to Myrtle Falls is something that will stick with me forever. It's not a thrill seeking, challenging, hard to endure hike, but its simple beauty, serene ambiance, and impressive falls will leave you satisfied.
-Blaine Ford
A reel of my time on the trail: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cv2l1Wdr1QN/
Prints from this hike:
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