Well worth the trek and visit, Marymere Falls was by far one of the best hikes we took during our Washington state extravaganza. Located within the vast Olympic National Park, next to beautiful Lake Crescent, it’s an easy, approximately 1-mile out and back trail. Marymere Falls is considered to be the most popular hikes at Lake Crescent, and it was decently crowded during our visit, although the number of people definitely dropped as the rain increased. The picturesque and tranquil one-mile trail goes through an “old growth forest”, eventually ending at the 90-foot (27 meter) Marymere Waterfall, which descends Aurora Ridge and into Barnes Creek.
The trailhead begins right across from the beautiful Lake Crescent, with indoor bathrooms and a large parking lot available, which was overflowing with people and cars when we arrived around 12:30pm. Due to Marymere Falls being an easily accessible hike right off U.S. Highway 101, we experienced what I affectionately call “The Hunger Games”. This is when people stalk others leaving, or try to back up because they see a spot opening up, despite there being a car directly behind them, and angry drivers stare at you because you managed to snag a spot and they did not. We got super lucky, as someone was backing out right as we arrived, much to the displeasure and dismay of other drivers. This was in early November, which is considered “off season”. I’m adding this so you know it’s best to arrive as early as possible, as well as be extra prepared if you visit during summertime.
We came to hike Marymere Falls by fortunate happenstance, as our original hike, Sol Duc Falls, was unavailable due to a landslide. We desperately wanted to do one more scenic hike before flying out early the next day, particularly one with a waterfall. After some internet searching, we landed on Marymere Falls, and were open to giving it a chance. I’m extremely glad we did, as it ended up being our favorite hike for both of us! It’s exceptionally beautiful, with a large, mostly flat trail that allows you to easily stroll and take in the beauty all around you. We took our time walking through, as we were in no rush, grateful for where we were and the gorgeous scenery that surrounded us. The trail ultimately led us to two fairytale-worthy bridges, adjacent to each other, and spanning Falls Creek.
While 95% of the trail is flat, relaxing, and easy to navigate, the final stretch amps up in difficulty. Once you cross the second bridge, the trail almost immediately goes from flat to somewhat vertical, where you must begin to ascend via man-made stairs to reach the viewing areas for the waterfall. About ¼ of the way up, you will come to a T of sorts, with a smaller off-shoot trail to the left. This trail takes you to a slightly lower viewing area, while staying on the main path to the right takes you to the highest viewing area. If you wish to do both, fear not, because at the top of the higher viewing area, there is a small staircase-type trail that brings you down to the lower viewing area, and you can take the smaller off-shoot trail back out (it’s essentially a short loop).
Overall, while Marymere Falls and its trail are a bit lesser well-known than its Olympic National Park counterparts Hall of Mosses inside The Hoh Rainforest of Olympic National Park. or Sol Duc Falls, I firmly believe it deserves just as much recognition and appreciation. Of all the trails I’ve hiked in my travel journey, I would rank it in the top 5 easiest trails, despite the last portion that ascends up to the viewing areas of the waterfall. Even those with mobility or breathing difficulties can make it to the top by taking it slow. Then, after completing the approximately 1-hour hike, you can stroll around the nearby beautiful Lake Crescent. So, if you’re ever in the Olympic National Park area, make time for a hike to Marymere Falls!
