Features:

This is another world-class hike that is easily accessible therefore it is very popular and the trail is often crowded. However, I was not surprised to see very few hikers mid-week. The trailhead is located along the Longmire - Paradise highway about 4 miles east of Longmire.

You begin this outstanding hike in a steep forested area but the trail soon levels out to a gentle climb as you approach a sturdy bridge that crosses Van Trump Creek which is NOT the creek upon which Comet Falls is located. As you cross the bridge you can look down upon Christine Falls.

The trail gently climbs as it makes its way upstream and toward Comet Falls. The entire hike is almost entirely in the forest which on a hot summer day brings great relief. In the summer you will be presented with beautiful floral displays and in the fall you can enjoy the wild fruit of huckleberries and salmon berries.

About two-thirds of the way to Comet Falls, the trail climbs an interesting portion of the trail by an arrangement of log steps. This need not be of concern, but certainly of interest.

The hike to Comet Falls is fairly steep and therefore it has earned a grade of Challenging. Within about a quarter mile of the falls, the trail crosses the robust Van Trump Creek which requires some attention as you navigate your way over the vigorous stream.

When you reach the first fantastic views of Comet Falls, be sure and continue on the trail to the base of the falls. On a warm summer day this is very refreshing, but any time of year it is truly rewarding.

Comet Falls on the West Fork
of the Van Trump Creek

How to get there:

It is actually a bit of a challenge to reach the Comet Falls trailhead from the north or the east.

From the Yakima, WA area travel on Hwy 12 over White Pass and to the junction of Washington State Road 123. Turn right (or north) on Hwy 123 and drive to the toll entrance of the Mt. Rainier National Park. Follow the park roads from there as if you were going to Longmire. About 4 miles before you get to Longmire, you will come to the parking area for Comet Falls.

Coming from the northwest follow Hwy 410 from Enumclaw, WA for about 41 miles to Cyuse Pass, then instead of turning left to Chinook Pass continue straight ahead until you come to the toll entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park Steven's Canyon entrance. From this point, just follow the park roads as if you were going to Longmire. About 4 miles east of Longmire, you will come to the parking area for Comet Falls.

Coming from the southwest follow Washington State Hwy 706 from Ashford and pass through Longmire. About 4 miles east of Longmire on the highway to Paradise, you will come to the parking area for Comet Falls.