Day Hike - Little Mashel Falls

We will meet at the Bud Blancher TH 1/4 mile east at the traffic light in Eatonville ready to go at 10:00 am. Please note this is not the Pack Forest hike to the falls.

Carpooling is encouraged. 

No trail pass or permit required.

Porta-potty is located at the TH at the parking area. There is also a pit toilet at the Eatonville visitor center on Mashel Ave. 

Driving Directions: Take Hwy 161 to Eatonville. At the traffic light take a left (east). Go two blocks and turn right at TH sign. 

***Welcome to Hiking Series***
Get yourself out and on the trails during the offseason by joining the Tacoma Hiking and Backpacking Committee on a series of easy to moderate fall and winter hikes that are focused on beginners. Learn tips, tricks, and strategies from our experienced hike leaders that will help increase your confidence to get outside and enjoy yourself. Hikes will range from 4 to 6 miles in length and will be led at a slower pace that is perfect for beginning hikers. These trips will run from November 2023 through March 2024.

All of these hikes are Leader's Permission Required so that once you notify the leader of your interest we can send you a handout of what you will need to be prepared for the hike itself!  ***Do not ask permission until (add date) and then I will respond to those in the order I receive them.

Trip Details: These magical falls are beautiful and breathtaking. Be ready for a bit of mud and a few steep spots and slippery climbs as we explore all three upper, middle and lower falls together.

The hike itself travels next to and across the Mashel River and Smallwood Pond for the first 1 1/2 miles, then turns steeply uphill towards the falls. 

Required Equipment: 10 Essentials (Read required equipment tab) Also a sit pad, rain gear, trekking poles (highly recommended) and good boots as the falls are probably one of the most spectacular lowland areas to visit full of cascading water, mosses and mist. The area is prone to muddy conditions with some steep accesses to a closer view of the falls.