Name: Comet Falls and Van Trump Park
Rating: 4.6

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Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

Family Friendly Somewhat strenuous, but a rewarding hike for families

Overview

The Comet Falls Trail is a very popular hike in Mount Rainier National Park, and for good reason. Not only are the 320-foot falls among the tallest you can find in the park, this makes a beautiful hike that is perfect for a half-day itinerary. Continuing higher on the mountain to Van Trump Park will earn you even better views of the glaciers above and the landscape that surrounds.

Need to Know

The Comet Falls trailhead is located four miles east of Longmire on the road toward Paradise. Parking space is limited and often full. There is no additional parking nearby, so have an alternate hike in mind.

Description

The trail climbs steadily uphill for 1.8 miles until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. Along the way you'll enjoy views of Van Trump Creek and its abundant cascades that are carved into the granite stream bed. The sound of the creek is never out of earshot as the trail climbs through the protected forest of noble firs and yellow cedars. Keep a watch for Bloucher Falls at the confluence between the East Fork and the main stem of Van Trump Creek

After finding your perfect view of Comet Falls, continue on the trail as it switchbacks uphill toward the junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is to the right, where the trail winds through the meadows until the maintained trail ends in 0.5 mile. From this open meadow at 5850 feet you'll get incredible views (if the weather is clear) toward the top of Rainier, plus a vista to the south that includes Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens.

There are no designated campsites along this trail, but camping is allowing with a backcountry permit. Fires are not allowed, and other regulations apply for overnight use. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers.

Flora & Fauna

Look for marmots, pikas, and goats on rocky open slopes.

History & Background

Comet Falls was so named because it resembles the tail of a comet. Van Trump Park honors P. B. Van Trump, who, with Hazard Stevens, was one of the first people to stand on the summit of Mount Rainier.