What is the current condition of the trail to Upper Falls?

The trail to Upper Falls is washed out before reaching the falls, meaning you can only see it from a distance as of [August 23](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-29.140514310714) and [August 9](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-09.172002032097). You can still catch a glimpse from the trail before needing to turn around.

Are the Middle Falls accessible, and are there any hazards?

The Middle Falls are accessible and considered a highlight, with the option to walk behind the waterfall. However, the rocks leading down to and behind the falls are very slippery and require slow movement and caution, as reported on [August 23](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-29.140514310714). The ceiling in the cave behind the falls can also be low in places.

What is the parking situation at the Bud Blancher Trailhead?

Parking at the Bud Blancher Trailhead is described as easy and ample. On [October 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-18.211335755603), parking was easy and the lot had plenty of open spaces. Similarly, on [August 9](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-09.172002032097), the lot was large and had many open spots even with weekend traffic.

Are there any significant road issues to access the trailhead?

No, the road is reported to be suitable for all vehicles. This has been consistently noted in recent reports, including on [October 18](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-10-18.211335755603), [August 23](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-29.140514310714), and August 22.

Little Mashel Falls - Bud Blancher Trail

Mount Rainier Area

updated 3 weeks ago

The Little Mashel Falls via the Bud Blancher Trail is currently experiencing beautiful fall colors, as noted on October 18. The trail itself is in good condition with minor obstacles posing few problems, and is snow-free. The road is suitable for all vehicles, and bugs are not an issue. Parking at the Bud Blancher trailhead is described as easy and ample. While the trail to the Upper Falls is washed out before reaching the falls, the Middle Falls is a highlight, with the ability to walk behind it, though the rocks are slippery. The Lower Falls is also accessible and beautiful, but requires caution when descending.

Generated from 47 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Little Mashel Falls - Bud Blancher Trail

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 3 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 3 weeks, so everything below is at least that old.

The trail to Upper Falls is washed out before reaching the falls, meaning you can only see it from a distance as of August 23 and August 9. You can still catch a glimpse from the trail before needing to turn around.