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Trip Report

Little Mashel Falls - Pack Forest — Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
Middle falls

We arrived at the trailhead at 10 am on a Thursday morning and there are about 2 other cars. For some reason google mapping the name University of Washington Pack Forest Conference Center is different than using the actual address. The actual address will take you to the gate which closes at 2:30 pm but using the name will take you to the parking area that is close to the trailhead. Apparently, they are very serious about towing cars so if you want to take your time going through the trail, it is best to park before the gate.

After parking, following the red signs and ribbon tied to trees will take you to the trail. The new route is about 6.5 miles round trip if you go to all the waterfalls (lower, middle, and upper).

The trail is very muddy and wearing waterproof boots will be extremely helpful. Other than navigating through the mud, the trail is relatively easy. Out of all 3 waterfalls, I recommend seeing the lower and middle. Because of the mud, I would suggest avoiding the upper waterfalls as it is not as pretty as the other 2 and it is extremely muddy to get to the viewing spot. If you do want to see the upper falls, make sure to follow the trail to the end and avoid going to the splits.

I did not notice any restroom or outhouses and it would be best if you use the facility at a gas station before arriving. I think this will be a great trail for kids or dogs. I'm not sure what are the leash rules as I did not notice any signs. It's a really easy trail with a big payoff. Great trail to do especially during rainy days.

Lower falls and the view is better once you get all the way down
Upper falls and the view is pretty much the same at the viewing spot
Very muddy trail
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