Denman Falls
Washington • Mount Rainier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Denman Falls
Denman Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked inside Mount Rainier National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The falls tumble over rocky ledges into a fern-lined hollow, framed by dense forest that feels both lush and secluded. It’s the sort of place that rewards a camera and a slow, lingering pause — especially during spring and early summer runoff. Access is a moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with about 400 feet of elevation gain, making Denman Falls an appealing half-day trip for families and day hikers seeking a peaceful waterfall within the park. The trail threads through old-growth forest and the final approach opens to a lovely viewpoint of the cascading water; come prepared for damp conditions after rain, and enjoy an inviting slice of Mount Rainier’s quieter backcountry.
The Setting
Denman Falls sits at 3,543 feet within Mount Rainier National Park, fed by the Puyallup River, in the mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Length: 2.5 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~400 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. The route winds through dense, forested terrain and is generally well marked. After wet weather you can expect muddy or uneven sections and exposed roots or rocks underfoot, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The official USFS/park trail surface, grade, and class data were not provided; the trail’s steady climb and final short approach lead directly to a rocky viewpoint overlooking the falls.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Denman Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Denman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
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
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
203 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 98 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PUYALLUP RIVER NEAR ELECTRON, WA (12 km away).
Today
Roaring
577 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
518 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
472 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
471 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
491 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
520 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
512 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid May to mid August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Ashford hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 284 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 3,566 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 146 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 158 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,566 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 284 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Denman Falls is located within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and rough in some sections. Visitors should check local conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at a small trailhead near the start of the hike. Space may be limited, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
3,543 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.835663° N, -121.907881° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy or slippery. Bring water and snacks, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds. Check weather conditions before heading out, as forest roads may become difficult to navigate in bad weather.
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With 2.5 miles and 400 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
Mountain Meadows Inn & Chalet Suites
Gateway Inn & Cabins
Luxe Chalet at Rainier Entrance with Hot Tub-AC-WiFi
Mt. Rainier Cabin w/hot tub
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, such as Panther Creek Falls and Falls Creek Falls. Mount St. Helens is also within driving distance.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and practice proper food storage.
Cities near Denman Falls
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