Are there fees or permits required for Stafford Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Stafford Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Stafford Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Stafford Falls.

Stafford Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Stafford Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Stafford Falls.

Washington • Mount Rainier National Park

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Mount Rainier National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (1)

Gary Brownell CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Stafford Falls

Tucked inside Mount Rainier National Park and managed by the National Park Service, Stafford Falls is a peaceful, lesser-known cascade set among dense, old-growth forest. The setting is quietly scenic rather than flashy — a great choice for hikers who prefer a short, restorative outing away from busier viewpoints in the park. The trail’s shaded canopy and moss-draped trees make the approach feel intimate and soothing, ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking solitude. Getting to the falls is a compact hike: an out-and-back route of roughly 2.0 miles with about 500 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. While the nearest developed campsite (La Wis Wis Campground) lies about 16.5 km away, the short distance and manageable climb make Stafford Falls a nice half-day excursion for visitors already exploring Mount Rainier National Park. Remember that this is park-managed land, so follow Leave No Trace principles and any NPS signage when visiting.

The Setting

Stafford Falls sits at 2,736 feet within Mount Rainier National Park, fed by the Cowlitz River, in the hills of Washington.

Trail & Hike Details

2.0 mi distance 500 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Out-and-back, 2.0 miles round-trip with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The route is a single-track through dense forest with a mixed dirt-and-rock surface that stays well-shaded for most of the walk. Expect some short, steeper or uneven sections where roots and rocks appear underfoot, so sturdy footwear is recommended. No USFS trail number applies here; the approach follows park trails within Mount Rainier National Park managed by the NPS.

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 Stafford Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Stafford Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest 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. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or encountering hazardous conditions. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out.

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge COWLITZ RIVER AT PACKWOOD, WA (25 km away).

Moderate confidence

Roaring right now

363 cfs

↑ Rising

Today

Roaring

414 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Roaring

392 cfs

9/10

Sun

Roaring

360 cfs

9/10

Mon

Roaring

366 cfs

9/10

Tue

Roaring

390 cfs

6/10

Wed

Roaring

398 cfs

6/10

Thu

Roaring

405 cfs

6/10

Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).

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.

3-meter lidar measures about 193 feet of descent through Stafford Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 2,737 feet above sea level.

Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 256 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 83 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Stafford Falls near Packwood, Washington, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Stafford Falls near Packwood, Washington, showing about 193 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing west

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 2,737 feet; Measured by 3-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 193 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: West; Glows in afternoon and evening light.

Ground profile through the falls

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

Stafford Falls is located near the Snoqualmie Pass area in Washington. Access typically involves driving along forest roads, and the trailhead may require navigating unpaved or gravel roads. Check local maps or GPS for precise directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons.

Elevation

2,736 feet above sea level

Coordinates

46.820445° N, -121.551727° W

Land Management

Mount Rainier National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail can become muddy or slippery after rain. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.

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With 2.0 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

Tiny Timber

9.3 35 reviews

Lafa Cabin - Luxe A Frame Retreat with Hot Tub, Sauna, Firepit- 5 Min to Mt Rainier

10.0 4 reviews

Packwood Lodge & Cabins

8.6 643 reviews

Gateway Inn & Cabins

6.9 9 reviews

See all hotels near Wilkeson

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

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

La Wis Wis Campground

10.3 miles away · 113 sites

Reservable

Overview Situated at the confluence of three waterways near Mount Rainier, La Wis Wis is nestled under a canopy of towering Douglas firs and red cedars. The handful of sites that dot the riverbank enjoy the most sunshine. With an abundance of activities nearby, La Wis Wis is a popular destination for long-stay camping. Its proximity to Mount Rainier National Park makes it an excellent base for exploring all of the area's natural wonders. Recreation Hikers can easily access the Blue Hole Trail and

Book on Recreation.gov