Thunder Falls

Though not exceptionally large, Thunder Falls is one of the most pristine waterfalls in the Mount Rainier area. Summit Creek creates a waterfall which fully lives up to its name as it fans out in a remarkably symmetrical fashion, dropping 82 feet into a lush natural amphitheater. Though the appearance of the falls doesn't change terribly with an increase or decrease in the volume of the creek, the character of the falls does vary greatly. Late in the summer when the volume of Summit Creek is at its lowest, the falls take on an exceptionally graceful and tranquil persona as it spreads out into thousands of rivulets and drips. In contrast, between May and July when the snowmelt season is in full swing, the creek balloons to nearly a full size river and the falls swell with immense power, the water shooting clear of the cliff and plunging in a free-fall to the pool below in a deafening roar. Although the falls are close to the road and are not terribly difficult to reach, the path to the viewpoint is unimproved, steep and precarious in places. Additionally, the gorge above the falls is equally dangerous as indicated by a memorial for an individual who unfortunately met his untimely fate having fallen from above. Hopefully this memorial serves as a warning to the dangers posed around the falls, but as long as visitors remain vigilant and wary of their surroundings, it should not be seen as discouragement from visiting the falls.