Mary Belle Falls
Washington • Mount Rainier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
About Mary Belle Falls
Mary Belle Falls is a lesser-known cascade tucked inside Mount Rainier National Park in Washington, managed by the National Park Service (NPS). Set within the park’s forested landscape, the falls provide a peaceful, scenic stop for hikers seeking a quieter outing away from the more crowded park highlights. Its smaller footprint makes it a rewarding short visit for photographers and nature lovers who appreciate a serene woodland setting. Access and management fall under Mount Rainier National Park (NPS), and the route to the falls is an approximately 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with about 350 feet of elevation gain, typically rated moderate. Visitors should check Mount Rainier National Park trail reports for seasonal closures or advisories; the nearest developed camping is Cougar Rock Campground, roughly 13.5 km from the falls for those planning multi-day trips.
The Setting
Mary Belle Falls sits at 5,233 feet within Mount Rainier National Park, fed by the Cowlitz River, in the high mountains of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: Out-and-back. The National Park Service listing for the route does not provide a USFS trail number or a formal surface/grade/class designation. Specific surface and technical-class information are not specified in available park data, so consult Mount Rainier National Park for current conditions before you go. Plan for variable trail conditions and check park alerts, especially in shoulder seasons.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and scenic waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The falls may be seasonal, so water flow could vary depending on the time of year.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mary Belle Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mary Belle Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Mount Rainier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may vary, and the area could be slippery near the falls. Always exercise caution and stay on marked trails if available.
Current Water Conditions
263 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
0.84 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge COWLITZ RIVER AT PACKWOOD, WA (23 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
263 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
274 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
269 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
273 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
315 cfs
3/10Sun
Barely Flowing
304 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
313 cfs
3/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, 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 Packwood 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 ground through the falls loses about 193 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,229 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 213 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 120 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,229 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 193 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Mary Belle Falls is located in Washington, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking resources or maps for the most accurate information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. It is recommended to check with local resources or visitor centers for guidance.
Elevation
5,233 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.813999° N, -121.630925° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as trail information is limited. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potential changes in trail conditions.
Where to Stay
Tiny Timber
Lafa Cabin - Luxe A Frame Retreat with Hot Tub, Sauna, Firepit- 5 Min to Mt Rainier
Packwood Lodge & Cabins
Gateway Inn & Cabins
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.
Nearby Campground
COUGAR ROCK CAMPGROUND
8.4 miles away · 184 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding area may offer additional hiking trails and natural features.
Wildlife
The area may be home to typical Washington wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
Cities near Mary Belle Falls
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