If your calves are conditioned and you're looking for an outstanding summertime excursion, look to Mount Rainier National Park for the best waterfall hike in Washington. Located close to Mowich Lake, Spray Park Trail is a paradise of snowmelt waterfalls, pealing mountain creeks, and mesmerizing Cascade views. In my opinion, it's one of Washington's essential trails for the dedicated— but not quite masochistic— hiker.

White-knuckle your way for a stretch of gravel road to reach the Spray Park trailhead. If the potholes jostle your resolve, know that this ill-kept through-way is part of what keeps Spray Park so much quieter than its neighboring hikes. The first leg of the route follows Rainier's Wonderland Trail, so you'll get a chance to wish bon voyage to the brave adventurers undertaking the 93-mile trek around the mountain.

Spray Park manages to cram in over 2,000 feet of elevation gain in just under seven miles, so pack accordingly. The right shoes go a long way to help reduce the climb's impact on your knees and calves. Snacks provide a welcome excuse to catch your breath. Water and sunscreen are non-negotiable!

About two miles in, you'll reach a fork in the path. Truncate your excursion and visit Spray Falls, a gorgeous alpine waterfall that descends 350 feet in a veil. This may be the prudent choice for inexperienced hikers or groups with children, but I recommend cracking your knuckles and diving into the switchbacks tracing Grant Creek.

Despite my encouraging you to forge onwards and upwards, I am— quite frankly— a big baby when it comes to steep ascents, usually cycling through the five stages of grief by the half-mile mark. Luckily, there's plenty to pause and look at along this trail, giving hikers like me ample opportunities to recenter and save face.

Often, hikers look for the sounds of water to know they're near a route's finish point. On Spray Park, you'll be waiting for Grant Creek's babble to fade. When it's finally gone quiet, the forest will dissolve into meadow after meadow of sprawling alpine views.

Now, you can find a boulder and break bread on the world's most beautiful outdoor dining patio. If you still have the chutzpah, swing by Spray Falls on your descent.

If you want to extend your stay at this miraculous place, reserve a site at Mowich Lake Campground. At such a high altitude, this area offers campers unparalleled views of the night stars.

Are you looking for the best waterfall hike in Washington? Check out Spray Park Trail. Whether you go for the full monty or cut it short to soak in stunning Spray Falls, one thing is certain: this route is the Evergreen State at its best.