Merymere Falls is about 1.5 miles from the parking lot. The path is paved up until the steep stair climb to the top to view the falls. There are about 100 uneven stairs to reach the top. It is a beautiful but small falls that is quite popular. At the base of the falls where you access the falls stairs there is a calm stream to walk through when its hot out, but can be easily crossed in hiking shoes.
On the day that I visited this area, it was August and was approximately 90 degrees outside. I get pretty grumpy when it’s hot out, so even though there was some tree cover and a water feature to enjoy, it was still a bit difficult for me to enjoy the environment 100%.
I am always one to stop and enjoy the sound of a stream or waterfall. I find that sound of running water very relaxing. I did remind myself when we arrived at the falls to pause for a few deep breaths to take in the moment.
I had this Marymere Falls hike on my adventure list for quite a while, so I didn’t want to rush through it even thought I was feeling overheated.
Having also visited Multnomah Falls in Oregon, Marymere Falls does not come close to the majestic height or flow of Multnomah.
The brain is an amazing and mysterious part of our body. Science is forever finding new ways that our brain and our world are intertwined. Here is some more information on the brain and listening to running water.
“Water is considered the elixir and source of life. It covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, makes up nearly 70% of our bodies, and constitutes over 70% of our heart and brains,” says Nichols. “This deep biological connection has been shown to trigger an immediate response in our brains when we’re near water. In fact, the mere sight and sound of water can induce a flood of neurochemicals that promote wellness, increase blood flow to the brain and heart and induce relaxation. Thanks to science, we’re now able to connect the dots to the full range of emotional benefits being on, in, or near the water can bring.”
Blue Mind, Wallace Nichols
Gr8ness.com: Science explains why we feel more relaxed by looking at water on a biological level. Seeing or hearing the soothing sounds of moving water triggers a response in our brains that induces a flood of neurochemicals. These chemicals increase blood flow to the brain and heart, which induces relaxation.
How about you? Do you feel that being near water, walking or sitting my a river/stream or floating in a body of water is helpful to your mental health?
Deep Breath Adventures 
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