Mary's Falls

For many residents of Washington State, the grandeur of Olympic National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity for true wilderness immersion. Among its many backcountry treasures is Mary's Falls, a designated wilderness campsite nestled along the historic Elwha River Trail near Port Angeles. This isn't a bustling car campground; it's a peaceful overnight stop for those who seek to venture deeper into the park's rugged beauty, embracing primitive camping and the solitude of the ancient forest. If you're a local hiker or backpacker looking for a genuine backcountry experience that promises tranquility and a deep connection with nature, Mary's Falls is a truly rewarding destination.

Mary's Falls represents the essence of responsible wilderness recreation, where self-sufficiency and adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles are paramount. It’s a place where the sounds of the Elwha River become your lullaby and the pristine natural surroundings rejuvenate your spirit. This article aims to provide Washington locals with a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Mary's Falls, detailing its remote location, the essential facilities it offers, and why it's a perfect fit for those ready to explore the wilder side of their magnificent national park.

Mary's Falls is a recognized wilderness campsite located within the boundaries of Olympic National Park, specifically along the popular Elwha River Trail, with an address associated with Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA. It serves as a vital stop for backpackers exploring the Elwha Valley, offering a designated, primitive space for overnight stays. The camp is set amidst the dense forests characteristic of Olympic National Park, providing a serene and secluded environment.

Unlike developed campgrounds, Mary's Falls is accessible only by hiking, typically several miles from the nearest trailhead. This ensures a true backcountry experience, where visitors are expected to be self-reliant. Facilities are minimal, generally limited to pit toilets and provisions for bear-safe food storage, such as bear wires or requiring bear canisters. The camp is known for its peaceful atmosphere and its proximity to the Elwha River, making it an excellent spot for rest and contemplation during a multi-day trek. It is highly regarded by those who appreciate the untouched beauty of the Olympic wilderness and the challenge of a backcountry journey.

Mary's Falls is situated within the vast expanse of Olympic National Park, near Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA. It is a wilderness campsite located on the Elwha River Trail, making it exclusively accessible by foot. The typical starting point for a hike to Mary's Falls is from the Madison Falls parking area, which is the current vehicular access point into the Elwha Valley. From there, hikers embark on a journey along the Elwha River Trail, following what was once a roadbed now reclaimed by nature.

For Washington residents planning to visit Mary's Falls, understanding the commitment required for this backcountry trip is essential. The hike involves covering several miles, traversing varying terrain within the lush temperate rainforest. As it's a wilderness area, there is no direct road access to the campsite, and mobile phone service is non-existent. This remote location offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from technology and fully immerse oneself in the natural environment. While accessible for experienced hikers, preparedness regarding gear, food, water filtration, and navigation is paramount for a safe and enjoyable journey to this secluded gem in Olympic National Park.

• Designated primitive campsites for overnight backpacking.
• Pit toilets are typically available at the campsite for basic sanitation.
• Bear wires or a requirement for bear canisters for proper food storage, to protect both human and wildlife.
• No potable water; campers must filter or treat water from natural sources like the Elwha River or nearby creeks.
• No vehicle access; the campground is exclusively walk-in for backpackers.
• No mobile phone service, promoting a true off-grid experience.
• Part of the extensive Elwha River Trail system, offering continued hiking opportunities beyond the campsite.
• A wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays in Olympic National Park's backcountry, including Mary's Falls.
• Fire rings may be present, but campers must adhere to current park fire regulations and burn bans.

• Great Backcountry Campground: Mary's Falls is highly regarded as a "great campground on the Elwha River Trail," signaling its suitability as a comfortable and well-placed overnight stop for backpackers.
• Peaceful and Secluded: Being a wilderness campsite, it offers profound peace and solitude, far from the noise and crowds of more developed areas. This is a significant draw for those seeking a true escape into nature.
• Elwha River Trail Access: Its location directly on the Elwha River Trail provides seamless access to one of Olympic National Park's most significant and scenic long-distance hiking routes.
• Natural Beauty: The campground is set within a beautiful natural environment, likely featuring dense forests and proximity to the Elwha River, offering picturesque surroundings for a restful stay.
• Primitive Camping Experience: With minimal facilities (pit toilets, bear wires), Mary's Falls appeals to seasoned backpackers who prefer a rustic and self-reliant camping adventure, fully embracing Leave No Trace principles.
• Wildlife Viewing Potential: The remote wilderness setting increases the likelihood of observing native wildlife in their natural habitat, adding an exciting dimension to the camping experience.
• Crucial Overnight Stop: For hikers undertaking multi-day treks along the Elwha River Trail, Mary's Falls serves as a well-positioned and much-needed stop for the night, as noted by its strong recommendation as "Worth a stop for the night."
• Opportunity for Digital Detox: The complete absence of mobile phone service allows visitors to fully disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the surrounding wilderness.

Address: Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA

As Mary's Falls is a wilderness campsite located within Olympic National Park, there is no direct phone number for the campsite itself, nor are individual site reservations taken in the traditional sense. For overnight stays at Mary's Falls, Washington residents are required to obtain a Wilderness Permit from Olympic National Park. All inquiries regarding permit requirements, trail conditions, safety guidelines, and any specific regulations pertaining to backcountry camping should be directed to the official channels of Olympic National Park.

Olympic National Park Wilderness Information Center:

Phone: (360) 565-3100 (for wilderness-specific inquiries)

It is highly recommended to visit the official Olympic National Park website (www.nps.gov/olym) or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on wilderness permits, safety alerts, and trail conditions before planning a trip to Mary's Falls.

For the avid adventurers and nature enthusiasts among Washington State's residents, Mary's Falls offers an exceptionally suitable and profoundly authentic backcountry camping experience. This is a destination for those who seek more than just a picnic table and a paved pad; it's for those who yearn for the raw, untamed beauty of Olympic National Park and the quiet satisfaction of self-reliant wilderness travel.

Its remote location on the Elwha River Trail provides an unparalleled opportunity to truly disconnect from the digital world and immerse oneself in the sounds, sights, and solitude of an ancient forest. This deep wilderness setting, coupled with the necessity for self-sufficiency in terms of water and food storage, makes it an ideal proving ground for experienced hikers and backpackers, offering a genuine challenge and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. The simple yet essential facilities, like pit toilets, ensure a maintained environment while preserving the natural feel of the area.

Furthermore, Mary's Falls serves as a crucial and highly recommended overnight stop for those undertaking longer treks along the Elwha River Trail, enabling multi-day explorations of the park's majestic interior. For Washington locals who prioritize peaceful surroundings, a profound connection with nature, and the invigorating challenge of a backcountry adventure, Mary's Falls is an excellent choice. It promises an unforgettable experience that reinforces the immense natural value found right in their own beautiful state.

Mary's Falls

Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA