Beyond the Overlook
Olympic National Park · Waterfalls

Marymere Falls vs. Sol Duc Falls: Which Would We Prioritize?

We visited both Marymere Falls and Sol Duc Falls. Both are worthwhile, but if time is tight, we would prioritize Marymere, especially if you are already getting a strong rainforest experience elsewhere.

Firsthand trip summer 2021 · Last reviewed September 2026 · How we review our guides

Marymere Falls vs. Sol Duc Falls: Which Would We Prioritize?

Our pick: Marymere Falls. It is easy to combine with Mt. Storm King at Lake Crescent and gives you a beautiful forest-and-waterfall stop without another major detour.

Waterfall surrounded by lush Olympic forest

Why Marymere wins for us

Marymere is in the same Lake Crescent trail network as Storm King, which makes the logistics excellent. If you are already there for our favorite hike, adding the waterfall is an easy decision.

Sol Duc was nice, but less essential

Forest stream and waterfall in Olympic

We enjoyed Sol Duc and the surrounding forest. Our memory is that the experience felt more developed and curated than some of the wilder parts of Olympic. If you have plenty of time, go. If you are choosing where to cut, this is one we would be comfortable dropping after Marymere plus a good rainforest walk.

Who should still choose Sol Duc?

If waterfalls and forest are a major priority, or your route already takes you through the Sol Duc area, there is no reason to avoid it. Our ranking is about limited vacation time, not whether the falls are attractive.

Keep planning Olympic: our 4-day itinerary, best hikes, Mt. Storm King, Rialto to Hole in the Wall, and Hoh vs. Quinault.