Ranger Falls
Washington • Mount Rainier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Ranger Falls
Ranger Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Carbon River area of Mount Rainier National Park, Washington. It is surrounded by lush temperate rainforest and is a popular destination for hikers seeking a serene and scenic experience.
The Setting
Ranger Falls sits at 2,723 feet within Mount Rainier National Park, fed by the Carbon River, in the hills of Washington.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Ranger Falls follows the Green Lake Trail, which meanders through a dense, moss-covered rainforest. The path is well-maintained and features gentle inclines, making it accessible to most hikers. Ranger Falls is located approximately 2 miles from the trailhead, and the trail continues beyond the falls to Green Lake.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a lush forest with towering trees and vibrant greenery. Ranger Falls is a cascading waterfall that flows year-round, with the most impressive water flow typically occurring in the spring and early summer. The area around the falls is shaded and cool, providing a refreshing atmosphere.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ranger Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ranger Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Ranger Falls is in the spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall is also a great time to visit for vibrant foliage, while winter may offer a unique, snowy landscape for experienced hikers.
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 weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging. Carry the 10 essentials for hiking and let someone know your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
101 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 82 years of record
5.87 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 CARBON RIVER NEAR FAIRFAX, WA (14 km away).
Today
Roaring
115 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
113 cfs
9/10Sun
Strong
107 cfs
10/10Mon
Strong
106 cfs
10/10Tue
Roaring
106 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
107 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
106 cfs
6/10Best window: Sun — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late 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 Carbonado 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 298 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,726 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 206 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 103 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,726 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 298 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ranger Falls is accessed via the Green Lake Trail, which begins at the Carbon River Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. The trailhead is located approximately 5 miles from the park entrance along the Carbon River Road, which is currently closed to vehicles but open to hikers and bikers.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Carbon River Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Visitors should be prepared to walk or bike along the Carbon River Road to reach the trailhead.
Elevation
2,723 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.983994° N, -121.853993° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be muddy, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as mosquitoes may be present. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience.
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With 4.0 miles and 500 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
Buckley Inn
Lake Tapps Bungalow
Comfort Inn & Suites Pacific - Auburn
Secluded Greenwater Cabin with Loft Near Rainier
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
Green Lake, Carbon River Rainforest, Mount Rainier National Park
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Visitors should practice proper wildlife safety and keep a safe distance from animals.
Cities near Ranger Falls
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