Comet Falls and Van Trump Park

Spectacular. The ascent is well worth the view. You can actually walk right up to where the water hits the bottom, that is if you want a very cold shower. Don't even think of getting a picture unless you have a waterproof camera. If you are planning on doing this hike you need to get there early, there are only about 10-12 parking spaces. You cannot park on the side of the road because there isn't one. This trail is rated easy on the trail review. However, if you are not a regular hiker or used to physical activity, this will not be easy. It is all uphill with several steep ascents. Take is slow and you will be rewarded at the end. Read more at Trails.com: Carter Falls | Longmire Washington Hikes | Trails.com http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailId=HGW219-004#ixzz2YqRsv8v8

The hike was amazing - the misquitos were hungry. The trail is well traveled. The wildflowers were in bloom. A bit of snow was left lingering in Van Trump Park which was fun to find in August. Mt. Goats hung out on the ridge at a distance. Poles are recommended for the bit of trail leading into the valley.

We were planning on hiking this trail on July 4th, when we arrived at the trailhead, a sign announced that the bridge is out 1.5 miles from the trailhead. I'm not sure if you still get views of the fall or not. We decided to hike another trail in the park, however the parking area at comet falls was still packed with peaple that still wanted to hike. Hopefully someone will write a report if the bridge is repaired.

My 12 year old daughter and I found this hike to be just right.The trail was challanging, but not so much so as to be discouraging.It was very hot the day we went,and the trail was crowded but it did't take anything away from the beauty and the peace we found there.The grinding altitude gain of the switchbacks comes with the soundtrack of heavy falling water just out of sight.Once the switchbacks were overcome, the way opened up as we scrambled over a rocky scree,greens and flowers crowding the sides.Just beyond is the first big waterwall.The bridge to cross the fast-moving water was simple but a bit scary:a narrow log,flattened on the top, with a "rail" on one side comprised of loose wire strung between three poles spaced way too far apart for my comfort.Just over that rise was the BIG falls.The walls of spray coming at us when we got close felt so good after the hot climb!Kodak moment!One more mile and some incredible views of distant mt.'s, St. Helens, Adams, etc and we hit the top. Flower fields, quiet, a side of Rainier I don't see from way below in the city.What a ride!