Is swimming allowed at Ipsut Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Ipsut Falls.

Live Conditions · 358 ft³/s · Lower than usual

Ipsut Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Ipsut Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Ipsut Falls.

Washington • Mount Rainier National Park

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Mount Rainier National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

brewbooks CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Ipsut Falls

Ipsut Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington. It is situated near the Carbon River area and is known for its serene surroundings and lush forested setting.

The Setting

Ipsut Falls sits at 2,631 feet within Mount Rainier National Park, fed by the Carbon River, in the hills of Washington.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Spray Falls (354 ft) lies 3.8 miles to the south.

Spray Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Ipsut Falls follows the Carbon River Road, which is now a wide, flat trail. It is surrounded by dense forest and offers views of the Carbon River along the way. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for most visitors.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through old-growth forest with occasional views of the Carbon River. Ipsut Falls is a smaller waterfall but offers a tranquil setting, making it a rewarding destination.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ipsut Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $30.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Ipsut Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Ipsut Falls, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt.

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

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Check trail conditions before visiting, as fallen trees or flooding may occasionally impact access.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

358 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

302 362 658 813

Based on 83 years of record

6.61 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

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

CARBON RIVER NEAR FAIRFAX, WA

USGS 12094000

10.3 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 79 sq mi

Altitude: 1,214 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Ipsut Falls can be accessed via the Carbon River Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Visitors typically hike along the Carbon River Road, which has been closed to vehicles and is now a trail.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the Carbon River Entrance, but spaces may be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Elevation

2631 feet above sea level

Coordinates

46.970661° N, -121.830936° W

Land Management

Mount Rainier National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start early to secure parking and enjoy the trail with fewer crowds. Bring sturdy footwear, as the trail may be muddy in places, especially after rain. Check weather conditions before visiting.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 2.4 miles and 350 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

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Campground

The Dalles Campground

13.8 miles away · 44 sites

Reservable

Overview Situated on the banks of the White River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Dalles Campground offers visitors stunning scenery and access to a multitude of recreational activities within the Cascade region. Scattered beneath a towering canopy of diverse forest, the sites in this campground are widely-spaced and many are at the water's edge.Recreation Hiking and fishing top the list of recreational activities in the area. For visitors wanting a glimpse at the wonders of the area, hi

Book on Recreation.gov