We hiked the Comet Falls Trail on a sunny July day with our 4½-year-old daughter. This half-day adventure in Mount Rainier National Park packs a lot into 3.8 miles, including forest, river views, log bridges, rocky scrambles and three beautiful waterfall viewpoints.
Our daughter has always preferred rocky, adventurous trails over flat walks (I know… it sounds backwards!), so this ended up being exactly her kind of hike. Families looking for an extra challenge can continue beyond Comet Falls to complete the longer Van Trump Park Loop, but we were more than happy making the waterfalls our destination.
Quick Facts
- Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,250 feet
- Best for: Experienced hikers around age 5+ (our 4½-year-old completed it)
- Pass Required: America the Beautiful Pass
- Trail Features: Tree roots, rocky scrambles, wooden stairs, log bridges and three waterfall viewpoints
- Time Needed: About 4½ hours with young kids
- Bathrooms: Nearest restrooms are at Narada Falls
- Parking: Small trailhead lot (about 16 spaces). If full, try Christine Falls viewpoint parking area (add about 0.2 miles to the hike)
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Cell Service: None (download maps before arriving)
(Image: Vizhi Thirusangu / Seattle’s Child)
Our Experience
We arrived at the trailhead just after 10 a.m. and were lucky enough to grab one of the last parking spots. After getting everyone ready, we hit the trail around 10:40. Less than a quarter-mile into the hike, we crossed a wooden bridge over Van Trump Creek for our first view of Christine Falls. It was too pretty not to stop for a few family photos before continuing on.
From there, the trail felt like walking through a lush green garden. Ferns, moss, and thick vegetation lined both sides of the trail, while muddy patches, exposed tree roots, and a gradual climb kept things interesting.
About halfway through, the trail became noticeably steeper with rocky switchbacks and higher wooden steps. We took plenty of breaks — not because our daughter needed to be carried, but because preschoolers sometimes just need a reason to pause. Singing songs from music class and the occasional lollipop kept her happily moving.
As the forest opened up, we started catching views of the creek below, several smaller cascading waterfalls, and wildflowers growing beside the trail. This section also required the most attention. Parts of the trail narrow considerably, with steep drop-offs toward the creek below, so we stayed close to our daughter and held hands whenever needed.
To our surprise, this ended up being her favorite part of the hike. She confidently navigated the rocks and wooden stairs, proudly announcing that she liked the “scrambly” sections more than the easier trail.
At Comet Falls, we found a shady spot to enjoy snacks while taking in one of Mount Rainier National Park’s tallest waterfalls. Before heading back, we walked the short distance to the base of the falls for a few family photos.
The return hike was definitely the harder half of the day. The steep, rocky descent had my toes wishing I’d brought hiking poles, even though I hadn’t needed them on the way up. Meanwhile, our daughter kept hiking with surprisingly few complaints while my husband entertained her with made-up stories for much of the walk back.
Our daughter liked the rocky terrain the best! (Image: Vizhi Thirusangu / Seattle’s Child)
Highlights
One of my favorite things about this hike is that you’re rewarded more than once.
The first stop is Christine Falls, followed by several smaller unnamed waterfalls as you continue climbing through the forest. Just before reaching Comet Falls, a small log bridge crosses Van Trump Creek, offering beautiful views of Bloucher Falls — a stunning three-tier waterfall that almost feels like a bonus destination.
Finally, Comet Falls delivers the grand finale. Watching one of Mount Rainier National Park’s tallest waterfalls tumble into the canyon below made every rocky climb worth it.
Another unexpected highlight? Despite all the roots, rocks and stairs, our daughter absolutely loved the challenge. If your child enjoys climbing over obstacles more than walking smooth trails, this hike may surprise you.
(Image: Vizhi Thirusangu / Seattle’s Child)
Amenities & Accessibility
The trailhead has a small parking lot with space for about 16 vehicles, plus a handful of roadside spots. If it’s full, you can park at the Christine Falls viewpoint and add about 0.2 mile to your hike.
The nearest restrooms are at the Narada Falls parking area, and there is no cell service along the trail, so download maps before arriving.
Dogs are not allowed on trails within Mount Rainier National Park.
After your hike, consider stopping at the National Park Inn in Longmire or driving to Ashford for a meal before heading home.
Parent Tips
- Arrive early to improve your chances of getting trailhead parking.
- Download an offline map before arriving.
- Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended.
- Hiking poles make the downhill much easier (I’ll definitely bring them next time).
- Pack plenty of water, snacks and a few fun treats for younger hikers.
- This trail is best for kids who already have experience hiking several miles with significant elevation gain.
(Image: Vizhi Thirusangu / Seattle’s Child)
Would We Come Back?
Absolutely. We’d recommend Comet Falls for families with kids who already enjoy longer hikes and are comfortable following trail safety rules, especially around narrow sections and drop-offs. The waterfalls are spectacular, the trail feels adventurous without becoming overly technical, and our daughter left feeling incredibly proud of herself. Next time, though, I’m definitely packing hiking poles.
Keep Exploring
If your family loves getting outside, here are a few more adventures to add to your list:
- Heather Lake Trail: Read our Parent Review of this beautiful alpine lake hike with a preschooler.
- Mount Rainier: Explore our guide to kid-friendly hikes throughout the national park.
- Waterfall Hikes: Looking for something shorter? These family-friendly waterfall hikes are all under two miles.
