About
Length (round trip)2.2 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain500 ft up
Typical time1 hr 15 min
TrailheadCougar Rock, Nisqually-Paradise Road
SurfaceRiver bed then forest trail
Best seasonLate July to September. Paradise averages over 50 feet of snow a year and the subalpine meadows are not clear until late July.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 💧 Waterfall🌊 River or creek🌲 Old growth

Season: Summer Only (May - October) The Carter Falls Trailhead can be reached year-round along the road to Paradise, with access down to the Nisqually River. However the log bridge over the river to reach the main trail often washes out during the fall and winter. Carter Falls is a horsetail-shaped waterfall about 50 feet tall. It was named in honor of Harry Carter, builder of much of the trail between Longmire and Paradise. Carter Falls can be viewed 1.1 miles up-river from the Cougar Rock Campground on the Wonderland Trail. Cross the Nisqually River below the campground and follow the trail toward Paradise. Continue past Carter Falls about 100 yards to view Madcap Falls, a short waterfall cascading down about 34 feet. For a longer hike, the Wonderland Trail continues to climb towards Narada Falls and eventually connects to Reflection Lakes or Paradise. Or, instead of crossing the Nisqually River, head southwest from the Carter Falls trailhead along the Wonderland Trail to reach Longmire. The Carter Falls trailhead also provides easy access to the Nisqually River. Explore the wide, rocky braided riverbed and stop to enjoy lunch next to the river. There is an excellent view of Mount Rainier from the riverbed. A log footbridge crossing the Nisqually River can wash out during the fall or winter. Check conditions before proceeding. Pets are not allowed on trails or along the Nisqually River. Parking can be limited at this popular trailhead.

Tips
The route crosses the Nisqually river bed on log bridges that shift each year. Madcap Falls is just above Carter.
Location

Cougar Rock, Nisqually-Paradise Road

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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