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Routes
Hikes
United States
Washington
Pierce County

Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest

Routes
Hikes
United States
Washington
Pierce County

Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest

The best walks and hikes in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest

4.9

(16)

152

hikers

7

hikes

Hiking in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest offers diverse terrain within the rolling foothills of Mount Rainier, ranging from flat areas to steep grades. Elevations span from 600 to 2,000 feet, providing varied experiences. The forest is predominantly covered by Douglas fir, red alder, hemlock, and cedar, featuring meadow environments, streams, wetlands, and ponds. A significant portion includes over 300 acres of lowland old-growth forest in the Newton Creek Reserve.

Best hiking trails in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

5.0

(2)

45

hikers

#1.

Little Mashel Falls Trail

9.10km

02:33

170m

170m

The Little Mashel Falls Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, taking you through a picturesque environment filled with towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars. This 5.7-mile (9.1 km) route…

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Moderate

5.0

(1)

9

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

2.25km

00:35

0m

20m

Hike the easy 1.4-mile Bud Blancher Trail to explore a varied landscape, from urban edges to a wild forested canyon, leading to Little Mashe

Easy

4.8

(13)

83

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Ba
January 4, 2025, Little Mashel Falls Upper Falls

The most challenging waterfall to get to for Little Mashel Falls. Be prepared for narrow paths, lots of mud, and downed trees.

1

0

An amazing view overlooking the Middle Falls. A bit tricky to find the path from the Middle Falls lower part, but it's about 50-100 feet from the stairs to the waterfall itself. Look for a moss covered trail marker about 3 feet high, 30 feet into the trail.

2

0

Bring a raincoat because you'll be getting sprayed! Also consider bringing hiking poles as it can get muddy and slippery. There's a path on the right side to go near the back of the waterfall for a unique view. The path to the higher view of the middle falls is tricky to spot. There is a moss covered trail marker about 30 feet into the trail.

1

0

Bring a raincoat, because at the bottom you'll be so close you'll be getting sprayed! Recommend to bring hiking poles, as it can be very muddy and slippery. There are stairs in parts, but they're not in great condition.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest?

There are 7 hiking routes documented in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest. These include a mix of easy and moderate trails, offering diverse experiences for hikers.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails here?

The trails in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 16 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse forest ecosystems, the educational elements, and the variety of terrain suitable for different skill levels.

Are there any trails with waterfalls in the forest?

Yes, you can explore the beautiful Little Mashel Falls Trail. This moderate hike takes you through scenic forest to the impressive Little Mashel Falls, offering a rewarding experience.

Are there family-friendly hiking options in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest?

Absolutely. For an easy and accessible walk, consider the Bud Blancher Trail. It's a shorter route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for families with children or those looking for a relaxed stroll through nature.

Can I bring my dog on the trails?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest. However, it is important to keep pets on a leash at all times and to clean up after them to ensure the preservation of the natural environment and the enjoyment of all visitors.

What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see?

The forest offers a rich variety of natural features. You can experience 300-plus acres of lowland old-growth forest in the Newton Creek Reserve, walk the unique "Trail of the Giants," and explore diverse ecosystems including meadows, streams, wetlands, and ponds. For a more challenging trek, Hugo Peak offers panoramic views.

Are there any loop trails for hiking?

Yes, several loop trails are available. You can try the Hugo Peak loop from UW Eatonville Pack Forest for a moderate challenge, or the Hiking loop from UW Eatonville Pack Forest for another scenic option. There's also a Hiking loop from Eatonville that starts closer to the town.

What is the best time of year to hike in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest?

The forest is accessible year-round. While many trails are enjoyable in spring, summer, and fall, Hugo Peak is particularly popular in winter for those seeking a more challenging trek. The diverse terrain means conditions can vary, so checking local weather before your visit is always recommended.

Is there parking available at the trailheads?

Yes, parking is available. Visitors are encouraged to pick up a trail map at the gatehouse, which can provide details on parking locations and access points for the various trails within the forest.

Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?

While there are no trails classified as 'difficult' in our current selection, routes like the Hugo Peak loop from UW Eatonville Pack Forest offer a moderate challenge with significant elevation gain, especially appealing in winter. The varied terrain throughout the forest, with elevations up to 2,000 feet, provides ample opportunity for a good workout.

Where can I find more information about the Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest?

For additional context and information about the forest, you can visit the Revisit Washington website or the Visit Rainier website. These resources offer further details on the forest's purpose, features, and recreational opportunities.

Most popular routes in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest

Waterfall hikes in Charles Lathrop Pack Experimental And Demonstration Forest

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