Waterfalls

Myrtle Falls

A short, easy walk from Paradise leads to Myrtle Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by wildflower meadows and Mount Rainier scenery.

Location: Paradise, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Myrtle+Falls%2C+Paradise%2C+Mount+Rainier+National+Park%2C+WA

Type: Waterfall / Short Hike
Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 185 feet
Difficulty: Easy

Why It’s on Our List

Myrtle Falls looks like exactly the kind of stop we like to find — beautiful without requiring an all-day hike to get there.

Located just outside the main Paradise visitor area at Mount Rainier National Park, Myrtle Falls is a short walk through some of the mountain's classic scenery. The trail follows a paved route through the meadows before crossing a small footbridge over Edith Creek and reaching the viewpoint.

And while the waterfall is the destination, the walk itself is part of the attraction. In summer, the meadows around Paradise can be filled with wildflowers, with Mount Rainier providing the backdrop.

The Walk

Starting from the Paradise parking area, follow the Skyline or Golden Gate trail east for about 0.4 miles.

The route is paved all the way to Myrtle Falls. Along the way, you'll pass through the meadows surrounding Edith Creek.

Cross the small footbridge and look for the turn toward the Myrtle Falls viewpoint. From there, you can enjoy the falls and then retrace your route back to the Paradise parking area.

For such a short hike, there's a lot packed into the experience.

What We Like

Short hike
Paved trail
Easy access from Paradise
Beautiful waterfall
Wildflowers and mountain meadows
Mount Rainier scenery
Easy to combine with other Paradise trails
Good choice when you don't want a long hike

Practical Notes

The trail is paved and flat according to WTA, making Myrtle Falls one of the more accessible destinations in the Paradise area. However, WTA cautions that the edges of the trail can be quite steep, so stay on the trail and pay attention around the viewpoints.

Dogs are not allowed on the trail.

An America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for park entry.

Paradise weather can change quickly, and conditions can vary considerably by season. Snow can remain around Paradise well into spring, so check current conditions before heading out.

If approaching from the east, WTA's directions take you via Highway 123 and Stevens Canyon Road to Paradise Road East. Stevens Canyon Road is closed during the winter.

Google Maps:
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=46.7861%2C-121.7359

Who This Is For

Myrtle Falls is a good choice for just about anyone visiting Paradise who wants to experience a waterfall without committing to a long or difficult hike.

It's particularly appealing for families, casual hikers, photographers, and anyone looking for a short walk with a big payoff.