Place · 0.8 mi away
Overview
Mouse Creek Falls is a photogenic 45-foot cascade tucked in the Big Creek section. It’s one of the park’s easiest waterfall rewards: a mellow creekside walk, constant water sounds, and a shady bench viewpoint across Big Creek when you arrive.
The Hike
Plan on about 4 miles round trip and 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace. The Big Creek Trail follows an old logging railroad grade, so the climb is steady rather than steep (roughly 500–600 feet total). The tread is wide but can be rocky in spots, and it hugs Big Creek much of the way.
Trail Highlights
- Midnight Hole (≈1.4 mi): A clear, emerald plunge pool with a small falls between boulders. Reaching the water requires a careful scramble on slick rocks, especially after rain.
- Mouse Creek Falls (≈2.0–2.1 mi): Look for the hitching post and short spur to a bench viewpoint across Big Creek. Many hikers enjoy the view from here; getting to the base is a rougher scramble and not necessary for great photos.
- If you continue 0.2–0.3 mile beyond the falls, a footbridge over Big Creek offers easy creek access and more pretty pools downstream.
Nature & Wildlife
Expect hemlock and rhododendron framing the creek, with wildflowers popping in early to mid‑April. This moist corridor is good for salamanders and songbirds, and you may spot trout finning in the pools.
Best Times to Visit
Spring brings wildflowers and lively flow; fall color lights up the creek banks. Summer is lovely but busier—arrive early for parking and a quieter trail, especially on hot weekends when swimmers flock to Midnight Hole. Soft, even light on overcast days is perfect for waterfall photos.
Logistics
- Parking, restrooms, and picnic tables are at the Big Creek area near the trailhead; it’s popular, so come early on weekends/holidays.
- A park parking tag is required if you’ll be parked for more than 15 minutes.
- No dogs are allowed on Big Creek Trail (it’s also an equestrian route).
- Footing is generally easy, but rocks can be wet and muddy after rain—wear sturdy shoes.
Pros
- Gentle, creekside approach with a steady, forgiving grade
- Midnight Hole plunge pool about 1.5 miles in
Cons
- Parking fills quickly on warm weekends and summer days
- Getting to the water/base involves slick, bouldery scrambles
Tips
- Arrive before 9am on warm weekends to secure parking.
- No dogs are allowed on Big Creek Trail—plan pet care in advance.
- Wear sturdy shoes; rocks are slick and there may be mud after rain.
- For easy creek access, continue 0.2–0.3 mile past the falls to the bridge.
- Display a park parking tag if parked more than 15 minutes.
