At 250 feet, Skookum Falls is a spectacular tiered series of horsetail falls, and you'll have a great view from this vantage point on Highway 410 not far from Chinook Pass.
If you'd like to get closer to the falls, there are two great hiking options. The easy trail from FS Rd. 73 starts at Skookum Flats and follows the White River upstream about two miles to the base of the falls, while another moderate trail option from Buck Creek Rd. follows the river downstream for three miles. The final scramble to the base of the falls is steep and soft but worth the extra effort.
Skookum Flats is worth a visit by itself, as it's a lovely area between the Dalles and Silver Springs campgrounds. As the name suggests, there's little elevation gain on its popular 8-mile trail through old-growth forest featuring towering conifers, ferns, mossy rocks, and plenty of views of the thundering White River. Skookum Flats is also one of the most popular mountain-biking routes in the Rainier region, so you can expect to share the trail. WTA hike description.
The word skookum comes from the Chinook Tribe, and translates to "strong," "powerful," or "monstrous," but we've also also heard it's another name for Bigfoot….
2016 was the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, and to celebrate, Visit Rainier and WSGA hosted the Visit Rainier Centennial GeoTour - 100 caches placed in and around Mount Rainier National Park. The geocaches highlighted the rich history, scenic wonders, quaint communities, and hidden gems of the Rainier region. Participants received geocoin and pathtag prizes for finding all the caches.
