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Kautz Creek Falls is a relatively new waterfall, formed as a result of the retreat of the Kautz Glacier in the last 50 years. The falls plunge down a series of steps in the headwall below the current terminus of the Kautz Glacier ranging from 50 to 150 feet in height. Two of the steps of the falls actually occur as the creek cascades from a source high up the glacier then flows under another lobe. Frequent visitors to Mount Rainier National Park may have noticed that Kautz Creek has always had a very muddy appearance, a characteristic most clearly illustrated when viewing this waterfall. As the creek flows out from under the upper lobe of the glacier, the color is quite clear, but as it flows back beneath the ice and re-emerges in the largest plunge of the falls, the water is heavily soiled - so much that it can be difficult to recognize the waterfall against the walls of the canyon.
- Kautz Creek Falls is the Unofficial name of this waterfall.
Kautz Creek Falls is seen from Mildred Point in Van Trump Park, within Mount Rainier National Park. Hike the Comet Falls trail for 3.75 miles, staying left at the first junction at the top of Comet Falls, then cross Van Trump Creek and turn right at the second junction. The climb is steep and tiring, so bring plenty of water.
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