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Carter Falls Trail
This easy out-and-back hike starts at Longmire and follows a short section of the Wonderland Trail.
Plan Around Carter Falls Trail
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Carter Falls Trail Details
This easy out-and-back hike starts at Longmire and follows a short section of the Wonderland Trail, passing through old-growth forest and within eyeshot of the glacial-fed, milky Nisqually River. (Alternatively, you can shave about 3.4 miles off the roundtrip hike by starting at the trailhead about .1 miles from Cougar Rock Campground.) From Longmire, follow the trail east through a magnificent old-growth forest of Douglas fir and cedar trees. The mellow terrain makes it popular among families. The trail here overlaps a tiny portion of the 93-mile Wonderland Trail, which circumnavigates Rainier, and runs parallel to the road until Cougar Rock Campground, where it crosses the Nisqually River. Then it turns east and follows the Paradise River and a narrow gorge to Cascade Falls and, shortly after that, Madcap Falls. the trail is about 5.6 miles roundtrip to Carter Falls. Add .5 miles to get to Madcap Falls and back; 900 feet of elevation gain to see both falls.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
6.1 miles
Estimated time
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Carter Falls Trail
Compare nearby parks around Carter Falls Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Carter Falls Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Carter Falls Trail while the map context is still fresh.
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Longmire Museum
This small museum offers a good historical overview of the park, the Longmire family, and the Native Americans who once traveled through this area.
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Longmire Wilderness Information Center
From late May to early October, staff here provides backcountry camping information, wilderness permits, and sound advice for those venturing off to hike.
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Trail of the Shadows
This .7-mile trail starts across the street from Longmire's National Park Inn.
0.1 mi away
Longmire General Store
The Longmire General Store, adjacent to the National Park Inn at Longmire, sells souvenirs and basic groceries to travelers and hikers.
0.1 mi away
Longmire Historic District Walking Tour
The Longmire Historic District Walking Tour will take you on an easy stroll along paved paths and roadway to see the historic buildings in this area.
