Little Mashel Falls Hike: See Three Waterfalls on One Trail

Little Mashel River Waterfalls are a series of three waterfalls – the Upper Falls aka Tom Tom Falls (~25ft), Middle Falls aka Little Mashel Falls (~120ft) and Lower Falls (~40ft). The falls can be viewed after an easy family friendly hike.

• Mileage and Elevation: 5 miles, 500ft.
• Difficulty level: Easy, Kid-friendly.
• Location: Eatonville, WA.
• Estimated time required: 2 to 3 hours.

Why do Little Mashel Falls Trail?

Because after an easy hike on this Eatonville waterfalls trail, you will be rewarded with the sight of not one, but three stunning waterfalls – upper, middle and lower falls.

The highlight of this experience is the opportunity to venture behind the middle waterfall, a unique vantage point that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the power and beauty of the cascading water.

During the spring season, the increased runoff creates a voluminous display, with the spray from the waterfalls soaking those who dare to get close. If you come prepared, this refreshing soaking can be a delightful experience, especially when exploring the falls with children.

The combination of the easy trail and the chance to witness these natural wonders up close makes a visit to Little Mashel River Waterfalls a truly rewarding adventure.

Little Mashel Falls Trail Step-by-Step Guide

The hiking guide is broken down into 4 steps – Trailhead to Upper Falls, Middle Falls, Lower Falls and Back to Trailhead

Trailhead to Upper Falls [1 hour + 20 mins]

We decided to hike to the top to upper falls first and then visit middle and lower falls on our way back. Although spectacular in its own right, upper falls do pale in front of the middle and lower falls. So saving the better ones for later made for a good order. It took us 1 hour to get from trailhead to Upper Falls.

The first ~1.4 miles on Bud Blancher trail to Little Mashel Falls trail is a pleasant walk on a flat gravel road which took us 30 mins . You will cross two wooden bridges over Little Mashel river before reaching the waterfall trail. The next 30 mins are an uphill climb.

As you approach the falls, the trail gets muddy and the rocks slippery. This holds true for all three falls. Wear good hiking shoes, pay attention to where you go, and slow down if some sections feel overwhelming, and you will be fine.

We spent 20 mins at the Upper Falls, where you can see the river flowing before it cascades into a fall. It is sort of a side angle view of the falls from the rocks. We enjoyed just sitting by the rocks, watching the gushing water and surrounding forest. Also a good time to eat a snack.

Middle Falls [10 mins + 20 mins]

After spending time at the Upper Falls, we started walking back on the trail towards Middle Falls which took about 10 mins. The trail is well marked so you will know when to take the fork towards each waterfall.

Middle falls are the tallest of the three and also the most voluminous. As you get closer to the falls, the trail gets muddy and you will start feeling the spray on you. By spray, I mean you will be drenched. That was our experience visiting in spring season.

If you want to go behind the falls or get closer to the base of the falls, you will have to descend and walk on rocks which are slippery with all the moss and water mingling together.

Slow down, hold your kids and watch your step if you want to try this. We really enjoyed going behind the Middle falls.

We had gone behind the waterfalls before at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. But if you haven’t done this before, then you will surely enjoy this perspective and experience.

Lower Falls [10 mins + 20 mins]

Lower Falls is another 10 mins walk back on the trail. The trail is slightly steep at the end and also muddy, but there are steps which makes this last portion navigable.

Lower Falls are more panoramic and scenic. We sat by some of the rocks at the base to enjoy this beautiful view. Taking in this experience of gushing river, cascading water, the moss laden rocks and the surrounding forest is supremely nourishing.

Back to Parking Lot [30 mins]

We sat at Lower Falls the longest before heading back to the parking lot. You go back the same way you came. From Lower Falls to parking lot, it took us about 30 mins to walk the trail.

Getting to Little Mashle Falls Trailhead

Little Mashel Falls Trail Directions

There are two trailheads to get to Little Mashel Falls –

1. Starting from Bud Blancher trailhead which is 0.5 miles shorter (see map pic above) – this is the one we took.
2. Starting from Pack Forest which is said to provide better views (Mt.Rainier) – probably worth trying if visiting in the summer when cloud cover is minimal and when Rainier views are more likely
3. Another option is to join the Little Mashel Falls trail from Smallwood Park, which is located ~0.25 to 0.5 miles from Bud Blancher trailhead (see map pic above). It will save you that much of a walk. We saw the park on our way on the trail, but haven’t personally tried that.

It takes ~1 to 1.5 hours from Seattle or Olympia to drive to either of the trailheads. Passing through Tacoma at peak time means you will face a lot of traffic. We started after a heavy brunch / early lunch and carried snacks for the trail.

Little Mashel Falls Parking

1. Bud Blancher trailhead – has ample parking spots.
2. Pack Forest trailhead – has some parking restrictions. If you are staying past 2 PM, then make sure you park outside the gate else your car will be towed away.

Tips for Hiking Little Mashel Falls

Estimated Activity Time

• Hike with minimal stop at the falls – ~2 hours roundtrip.
• Spending time at the falls – This can vary depending on your preference. We spent substantial time at all three falls, ~15-20 mins per waterfall which added another 1 hour to our total activity time.
• Drive to/from Seattle or Olympia – 1 to 1.5 hour one way. So estimate ~2 to 3 hours round trip.
• Total – Consider a total of upto 6 hours for this day trip activity from Seattle or Olympia.

Kid and Family Trip Report

• Infants (upto 1 year), Toddlers (1-3 years) and Pre-school (3-5 years) – While the full Little Mashel Falls Trail spans around 5 miles, this may be a bit much for young children under 5 years old. Families with toddlers and preschoolers, consider bringing a stroller for the initial 1.4-mile gravel path portion of the hike. This allows little legs to alternate between walking and riding, conserving their energy.
• As you approach the waterfall area, it’s best to leave the stroller behind and carry your infants. Exercise extra caution on the potentially muddy and slippery sections near the base of the falls, keeping a close eye on the kids. To simplify the outing and maintain an easy pace, you may choose to skip the upper waterfall and focus on the middle and lower falls.
• By planning ahead and making adjustments as needed, families with young children can still enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Little Mashel river waterfalls. With a bit of preparation and vigilance, the waterfall experience can be a delightful and memorable adventure for the whole family.

• 5 years and above – This trail is very doable by kids who are 5 years and older, and who have hiked before. Watch the kids as you get closer to the falls as the stones can be slippery and the trail muddy.

• Family – I would not take my 70+year old parents to this hike. As described for the kids, they can probably do the initial flat walk and turn back. With a muddy trail, you don’t want to be watching over people all the time. Having said that, each family is different. So check for latest trip reports on Google or WTA to get pointers from a more diverse group of hikers and assess what’s right for your family.

Amenities

• Restroom facilities – There is a portable toilet. If you are not comfortable with portable toilets, then another option is to stop by a gas station in Eatonville downtown (5 mins from the trailhead) before you hit the trail.
• Cellular network – There is limited cellular network once on trail.

Food

There are no food options near the trailhead, but plenty of food options in driving distance. If you are coming from Seattle, then Renton, Kent, Puyallup and Tacoma along the way will have plenty of restaurant options.

Little Mashel Falls Trip Planning

• Day trip – Little Mashel Falls Hike would make for a fantastic daytrip from Seattle or Olympia. Nice walk/ workout in nature with gorgeous waterfalls is the best wellness day you can ask for. For a longer day trip or a weekend getaway, you can consider adding other attractions to your itinerary. See below for nearby things to do.
• Best time to visit – Spring, summer and fall. However, this region is relatively snow free so this is a good year-round hike.
• What shoes and clothes are appropriate? – Any good hiking shoes would work. Or shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy. If you are going in spring, then wear clothes that dry easily as hiking back in wet clothes can be uncomfortable. We had our typical rain/winter jackets on, which protected us from getting completely wet.

things to do Near Little Mashel Falls

• Alder Lake Park and Alder Dam Viewpoint – 10 mins drive south of Little Mashel Falls. Great to sit by the lake. It has a play area which can keep kids busy, a dam viewpoint, great for enjoying water activities on hot days and also Mt. Rainier views on a clear day. It has campgrounds for those looking for a longer stay in the area.
• Northwest Trek Wildlife Park – 15 mins drive north of the falls. You can meet native Northwest animals on walking paths or tour experiences.
• Springtown Farms – 10 mins drive north of falls. You can visit a lavender farm and winery (39610 Eatonville Cutoff Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328).
• Dogwood Park – 5 mins drive north of falls. Stop here on a sunny day for gorgeous views of Mt.Rainier.

Final Thoughts

I would highly recommend visiting Little Mashel falls as a day trip from Seattle. Best to go with older kids. Or make it a parents’ wellness day outing without the kids and get a break from your routine.