Marymere Falls Nature Trail

Starting your adventure near Clallam County, Washington, the Marymere Falls Nature Trail offers a delightful loop of approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it accessible for most hikers while still providing a bit of a challenge.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive to the Storm King Ranger Station, located near Lake Crescent. If you're using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is the town of Port Angeles. From Port Angeles, you can take a bus or taxi to the Lake Crescent area. The trailhead is well-marked and has ample parking space.

Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a lush, old-growth forest. You'll be surrounded by towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks, with the forest floor carpeted in ferns and moss. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, making it a pleasant walk as you acclimate to the surroundings.

Significant Landmarks About 0.5 km (0.3 miles) into the hike, you'll cross a picturesque wooden bridge over Barnes Creek. This is a great spot to pause and take in the serene beauty of the flowing water and the dense greenery around you. Continuing on, the trail starts to climb more steeply as you approach the falls.

Marymere Falls At approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles), you'll reach the highlight of the trail: Marymere Falls. This stunning 27-meter (90-foot) waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff into a clear pool below. There are two viewpoints: a lower one that offers a close-up view of the base of the falls, and an upper viewpoint that provides a broader perspective. Both are worth visiting for their unique vantage points.

Wildlife and Flora Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including black-tailed deer, various bird species, and occasionally, black bears. The flora is equally impressive, with seasonal wildflowers adding splashes of color to the verdant landscape.

Historical Significance The area around Lake Crescent has a rich history, with evidence of Native American habitation dating back thousands of years. The lake itself was formed by a landslide that blocked the flow of the Lyre River, creating the deep, clear waters you see today. The trail and surrounding areas are part of the Olympic National Park, established in 1938 to preserve the unique ecosystems and natural beauty of the region.

Navigation For those looking to ensure they stay on track, the HiiKER app is an excellent tool for navigation. It provides detailed maps and real-time location tracking, which can be particularly useful in the denser sections of the forest.

Final Stretch After enjoying the falls, the trail loops back towards the trailhead, descending gently through the forest. The return journey offers a different perspective of the landscape, with opportunities to spot more wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

This trail is a perfect blend of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and historical intrigue, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.