Quick Guide to Visit the Beautiful Marymere Falls

After a full day of excitement Wingwalking, neither Dustin nor I were ambitious enough to do long, strenuous hikes. However, we didn’t want to miss out on anything while we were visiting Washington either. So, we decided to check out the popular Marymere Falls Trail, located along Lake Crescent. Marymere Falls Trail in Olympic National Park is a short, easy yet beautiful hike that meanders through large towering trees, encircling breathtaking river views, and ended at a 90ft waterfall. This trail is perfect for beginner hikers, families with children, or those who just want to do a simple hike.

Stats

Where

Marymere Falls Trailhead
227693-227769 Olympic Hwy, Port Angeles, WA 98363
48.058056, -123.789011

Parking

Large, paved parking lot

Restroom

There are restrooms are the trailhead

Fee

Olympic National Park charges a fee to enter. You can also use a park-specific annual pass or the Interagency – America the Beautiful Pass.

Distance

1.7 mi R.T.

Elevation Gain

298 ft

Level

Easy

Time:

45 minutes – 1.5 hours

Pet-friendly

Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.

Ideal Time

The trail opens year-round and it’s beautiful to visit anytime. However, it is a popular trail so if you want some peace and quiet, get there early and on a weekday.

Weather

Video

How Do I Get to Marymere Falls Trail?

Marymere Falls Trail is located along the Olympic Highway US 101 in Olympic National Park, WA, near Lake Crescent Lodge. To get there, from Port Angeles, go West (toward Lake Crescent) for about 20 miles on US 101. You should see a sign for Storm King Ranger Station. About 200 yards after the ranger station, turn right on Lake Crescent Road and follow that to a big parking lot, right before the start of the trailhead.

The Adventure

To the Tunnel

After parking, we headed toward a small paved trail that led toward Lake Crescent and the ranger station. There is a sign at the trailhead indicating that this is the way to Marymere Falls. The paved trail quickly turns into a dirt trail as it meanders through tall trees and lush vegetation. Most of these tall trees are covered in green moss, making the scenery extra luxuriant and beautiful. This beginning part of the Marymere Falls Trail also runs parallel to the crystal clear, blue Lake Crescent before reaching a short tunnel that goes under U.S. Highway 101.

To the Bridges

Once we cross over to the other side of U.S. Highway 101, the Marymere Falls Trail continues to snake through the dense old-growth forest. Eventually, we reached a signed intersection. Going left will let you continue on the Barnes Creek Trail while going right will take you to Marymere Falls. Since our objective is Marymere Falls, obviously, we went right. After a short distance, we reached a sturdy wooden bridge that crosses over Barnes Creek. Once we crossed over, the trail continues to the right, quickly leading to my favorite part of the Marymere Falls Trail, a narrow, rugged-looking wooden bridge. There are a couple of stairs leading up to it. This bridge is super pretty, especially if you look toward your left, into the canyon. There are mini waterfalls everywhere in there!

Marymere Falls

After crossing over this pretty bridge, the trail gains elevation with small sections of stairs and well-maintained switchbacks. At this point, the Marymere Falls Trail turns into a loop. Either direction will lead you to the waterfalls. We went left. After a bit more climb, we saw the splash of white peeking through the trees and the thunderous sound of the water falling down. The Marymere Falls quickly came into sight as we circled around and climbed up the wooden steps.

Depending on when you go, the Marymere Falls can be very impressive. Even when it’s not at its fullest, this waterfall is still very beautiful. Once you’re done admiring the view, keep climbing up the stairs to complete your loop. Then, head back to the way you came from. For another beautiful short hike in the Lake Crescent area, check out Spruce Railroad Trail to Devil’s Punchbowl

These are the gear that we personally use and find them helpful for this particular adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.