Quick Facts
Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 366′ / 112 m
Length of Hike: Roadside
The Record
As you explore Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll find that some beautiful sights are outside of the main hubs of Paradise and Sunrise. Skookum Falls is a perfect example. Found in the northeastern part of the park, this tall but narrow waterfall is an easy stop, particularly for those on their way in or out of the park.
What makes Skookum Falls so appealing is its accessibility. You can spot the long, slender cascade right from State Route 410, with a convenient pullout area for parking. While the view from the road is good, a very short and easy trail leads you to the base of the falls for a much better perspective. The waterfall is a delicate ribbon of water that plunges dramatically from a high cliff, a different kind of beauty compared to the broader, more powerful falls you might find elsewhere.
While it may not be the main reason for a trip to Mount Rainier, Skookum Falls is worth the stop, especially if you’re driving back towards Seattle. It requires minimal time and effort for a great reward.
Directions
- WA-410’s western terminus seems to be in Tacoma (or one of its suburbs). If you head east and stay on WA-410, the road veers south and crosses into Mount Rainier National Park.
- On Google Maps, the falls are just north of Snoquera and south of Greenwater. They are on the west side of the road, which would be on the right if heading south.
- There is a parking area across from the falls. There may be a trail to the base of the falls, though we didn’t explore that option.
Waterfall Record 
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