Marymere Falls, located just a short distance from Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, is a stunning natural attraction that offers visitors a picturesque glimpse of the region's beauty. This enchanting waterfall, cascading down a rugged cliffside, is surrounded by lush forests and vibrant vegetation, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
The hike to Marymere Falls is an enjoyable and relatively easy trek, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. The trail begins at the Storm King Ranger Station, where I was greeted by the sounds of nature and the fresh scent of the forest. As I made my way along the well-maintained path, I was captivated by the diverse flora surrounding me. Towering trees, ferns, and wildflowers created a lush canopy overhead, enhancing the sense of tranquility that enveloped the area.
The hike to the falls is about a mile long and features gentle elevation changes, making it a pleasant experience. Along the way, I encountered several viewpoints that offered glimpses of the surrounding landscape, each more beautiful than the last. The sound of the rushing water grew louder as I approached the falls, building anticipation for the grand reveal.
Upon reaching Marymere Falls, I was greeted by a breathtaking sight. The waterfall plunges approximately 90 feet down a rocky cliff, creating a mesmerizing display of cascading water. The sheer power of the falls and the mist that rises from the base creates an ethereal atmosphere, and I found myself entranced by the beauty of nature. The falls are framed by lush greenery, and the sunlight filtering through the leaves added a magical touch to the scene.
The area around Marymere Falls offers ample opportunities for exploration and photography. I spent time wandering the surrounding forest, capturing the beauty of the falls from different angles and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. The combination of the rushing water, vibrant vegetation, and the sounds of birdsong created a serene retreat that felt far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The history of Marymere Falls is intertwined with the cultural significance of the land. The area has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for centuries, and the natural beauty of the falls holds deep meaning for them. Learning about the connection between the land and its original inhabitants added a layer of depth to my visit and fostered a greater appreciation for the beauty of the area.
After enjoying the falls, I returned along the trail, feeling rejuvenated by the experience. The hike to Marymere Falls is an excellent complement to a visit to Lake Crescent, allowing visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of Olympic National Park in a single day.
In terms of accommodations, the nearby Lake Crescent Lodge offers convenient lodging options for those looking to explore both the lake and the falls. Staying at the lodge provided easy access to not only Marymere Falls but also other nearby attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
In conclusion, Marymere Falls is a captivating destination that showcases the natural beauty and serenity of Olympic National Park. With its stunning waterfall, lush surroundings, and accessible hiking trail, it’s a perfect spot for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re hiking to the falls, taking photographs, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, Marymere Falls is an unforgettable experience that highlights the wonders of the natural world. I left feeling inspired and grateful for the opportunity to witness...
Read moreThis is a hike that I have done many times, and it never disappoints. It is always a wonderful experience. The parking was fine and the hike is not too hard. It is family friendly, with lots of phot-taking opportunities. After entering the trail, you get a view of Lake Crescent, where you can walk along the water's edge (and maybe even skip some rocks). The water is very cold, but also very beautiful. Then, you walk under the highway to the forest, where you walk amongst magnificent trees. The forest is always cool, so be sure to bring a light jacket or hoodie. Finding a walking stick as you enter the forest is always a 'must', as it will come in handy and make a nice takeaway from the experience. After walking through the woods for about a mile, you come upon Barnes Creek, where you can wade in the river. Be aware that running water here can be fast and powerful, so use caution. Then, you walk over the bridge and enter the deeper part of the forest. To your left, you'll catch a glimpse of the beautiful waterfall. Going in the spring or after a heavy rainfall or period where it rained a lot will make for a full waterfall and a more majestic view. Once you're on the other side of Barnes Creek, you begin the hike to the waterfall. It is uphill and steep, which is why the walking stick will come in handy. Once you start your ascent, you can choose one of two trails to the falls, the first (to the left) has stairs and railings, while the second has only rails. Coming down, the stairs is much easier on the knees than the other way (pro tip). Once you reach the falls, there is a wonderful picture opportunity. Just above the first picture spot, you can walk a very brief trail up just a little bit more to another picture spot. Then, when you leave, you get to enjoy the beautiful experience again. I would recommend bringing a backpack with water and first aid supplies.
Photos of the falls and creek were taken with Google Pixel Pro 8, using the long...
Read moreIt's not a big fall, hardly impressive. Also I'd like to note that I'm in decent shape and my job involves me walking a lot, but there are stairs to climb on this hike and they almost took me out. If the weather is warmer than usual, or you're dehydrated, or heck you just plain old hate stairs, they might take a toll on you physically. I don't know why no one is mentioning the stairs in their reviews since it's an important detail to note especially if you have any physical limitations involving stairs. There are several flights you have to climb up and they are very steep. I made the mistake of going on this "easy" hike right after having had a big meal at the restaurant nearby AND on top of that I was dehydrated (both things obviously my fault I don't blame the stairs) but because I didn't take those things into consideration I was so worn and out of breath I had to sit down. I was fine on the hike until I hit those darn stairs. Anyway, if you're smarter than me maybe the stairs won't trouble you as much. I gave 3 stars because the battle I had with those stairs was not worth it imo. The waterfall is small and not much to look at also there were a lot of people there (as others have mentioned in their reviews) which put a damper on...
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