Is swimming allowed at Comet Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Comet Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,640 ft³/s · About average

Comet Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Comet Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Comet Falls.

Washington • Mount Rainier National Park • 320 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Mount Rainier National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

nwpuzzlr CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

orkybash CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

3.8 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

1,250 ft

About Comet Falls

Comet Falls is one of the tallest and most spectacular waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park, located in Washington. The waterfall cascades in a dramatic free-fall of approximately 320 feet, with additional smaller tiers below.

The Setting

Comet Falls sits at 4,990 feet within Mount Rainier National Park, fed by the Cowlitz River, in the mountains of Washington. At 320 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Washington.

Height: 320 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Christine Falls (69 ft) lies 1.0 miles to the south.

Christine Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 3.8-mile out-and-back trail gains 1,250 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Comet Falls is a moderately challenging hike that follows Van Trump Creek. The trail features steep sections, rocky terrain, and several small waterfalls along the way. The final approach to Comet Falls offers stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding forest.

What to Expect

The falls plunge a dramatic 320 feet.

Accessibility

The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Comet Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $30.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Comet Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Comet Falls is during late spring through early fall, when the trail is free of snow and the waterfall is flowing at its fullest.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Mount Rainier National Park for current conditions.

Safety Information

The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Use caution near the waterfall, as the rocks can be wet and unstable. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry the Ten Essentials.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Low

1,640 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1.3k 1.7k 3.5k 4.5k

Based on 96 years of record

2.11 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

COWLITZ RIVER AT PACKWOOD, WA

USGS 14226500

13.5 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 287 sq mi

Altitude: 1,051 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Comet Falls is located in Mount Rainier National Park, approximately 4 miles east of Longmire along the Paradise Road. The trailhead is well-marked and located near a small parking area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the trailhead, but it is limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Elevation

4990 feet above sea level

Coordinates

46.795942° N, -121.780096° W

Land Management

Mount Rainier National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area can be cool and damp even in summer.

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With 3.8 miles and 1,250 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

COUGAR ROCK CAMPGROUND

2.1 miles away · 184 sites

Reservable

Overview Cougar Rock Campground, on the southwest side of Mt. Rainier National Park, is conveniently located near Paradise. Individual campsites are reservable on this page. Group campsite reservations can be made via Cougar Rock Group Campground. Paradise is the most popular destination in the park, with a lodge and visitor center, many miles of hiking trails and a commanding view of the mountain-the highest in the state and Cascade range. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park is t

Book on Recreation.gov