Chenuis Falls

Chenuis Falls is a series of cascades on Chenuis Creek in Mount Rainier's Carbon River area. The lower drop spills over smooth bedrock into a pool and is 168 feet tall; more tiers continue above, hidden from creek level. It's a good choice if you enjoy a quiet river-valley walk as much as the waterfall. Plan for roughly 7½ to 8 miles round trip from Carbon River Entrance; only the final 0.2 mile is the Falls spur.

From Carbon River Entrance, the old road, now the Carbon River Trail, runs about 3.5 miles to Chenuis Falls Trailhead. The old road grade keeps the approach gradual, and bikes are allowed as far as the trailhead, where there's a rack. From there, continue on foot across the broad rocky riverbed and the log footbridge; cairns sometimes mark the way. The bridge often washes out in winter. Never cross the Carbon River if the bridge is missing, and check park access and trail conditions before setting out. Pets aren't allowed. At the trailhead, you'll find a restroom and picnic table, but no potable water.

At creek level, you see the lower cascades and the pool. The trail climbs above the falls to another viewpoint, where you can see upper tiers that are hidden from below. For a photo, include the pool and the smooth rock at the foot of the drop; continue above the falls if you want the rest of the cascades in view.

Heavy rain in 2006 and 2008 sent the Carbon River over sections of its old paved and gravel road. The Park Service left that road alignment as trail rather than rebuilding it. The river's broad, rocky floodplain is part of the approach now, and it explains why the falls aren't a quick roadside stop.