Hiking Mt. Rainier
Mount Rainier Hiking & Trail Guide:
4600 feet higher on the slopes of the mountain. The hike is long, arduous and potentially
hazardous if the weather turns nasty. Make sure you have waterproof shoes - at 9 miles
with glaciers - its not a day hike for the kids !
Comet Falls Trail (3.8 miles). Starting four miles east of Longmire on the road towards
Paradise, this trail visits one of the highest waterfalls in the park, Comet Falls. For two miles
the trail climbs steadily up hill until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. From there it
switchbacks 0.6 mile uphill to the junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is
to the right, where the trail winds through the meadows until it dead ends in 0.5 miles. Be
sure to bring your camera.
Eagle Peak Trail (7.2 miles). This trail climbs over 2900 feet from the trailhead near the
Longmire museum to the peak of the saddle. For the first two miles the trail ascends steeply
through dense forest to a small stream, then continues another mile to a meadow. Beyond
the meadow the trail is much steeper and rocky as it climbs the final 0.5 miles to the 5700 ft.
saddle.
Gobblers Knob Trail and "Mount Wow" (12.8 miles). The trailhead is located near the
Nisqually entrance, near the end of the Westside Road (hike 4 miles up the closed portion of
the road to Round Pass and the trailhead). Lake George is a pristine mountain lake, nestled
in the northwest shoulder of Mount Wow. The rock outcrop of Gobblers Knob is situated at
the north end of Mount Wow, a mountain whose name means "goat." The hike to Lake
George is easy with a gradual incline. It is popular for families with small children. The
hike up to Gobblers Knob Lookout is an additional 1.5 miles and much steeper.
Golden Lakes Trail (34.5 miles). From the trailhead at the end of Westside Road, the trail
leads to an area of fifteen or more small lakes was so named because of the golden sunset
colors reflected from the lakes' surfaces. The meadows of Sunset Park are abundant with
wildflowers in mid-summer and are host to black bears foraging on the plentiful supply of
huckleberries early in the fall. Gorgeous spot for photos.
Indian Henrys Hunting Ground (via Kautz Creek - 11.5 miles). The trail begins near the
Kautz Creek Picnic Area and ascends 3000 feet, passing by Kautz Creek and through an
old growth forest before rapidly climbing to the south flank of Mt Ararat. The trail soon enters
a series of meadows before climbing a final ridge and descending to the Ranger Cabin in
the meadows of Indian Henrys. These areas are the home of several bears as well as deer
and other animals.
Indian Henrys Hunting Ground (from Longmire - 13 miles). The trail begins at Longmire
and later joins the Wonderland Trail before connecting with the Rampart Ridge Trail.
Scenery includes old growth forests, mountain meadows, and mountain lakes before
reaching the Ranger Patrol Cabin in the meadows of Indian Henrys. Total elevation gain is
2400 feet.
About Indian Henry: Indian Henry was a Native American that guided John Muir and
worked with Longmire at Mount Rainier in the late 1800's. He was relatively well off, and
white settlers did a great deal of speculating about how he got that way. Some said that he
had salvaged gold from a wrecked Spanish ship, and that he had packed his fortune off to a
secret cache on Mount Rainier; or that he had a gold mine on the mountain;or that he had
found gold that once belonged to Chief Leschi, the great leader of the Nisqually Tribe.
Some believed it was only Indian Henry's natural shrewdness that made him wealthy, noting
that he altered the sign pointing the way to Mount Rainier to divert visitors on an
unnecessary detour to his farm, where he would charge them for supplies and lodging.
Indian Henry's white neighbors were curious enough about his wealth to follow him to his
secret summer goat-hunting area on the slopes of Mount Rainier. They found no gold there,
but a luxurious, flower-filled valley that rivaled Paradise for beauty. The place, in the
southwest corner of what is now the Mount Rainier National Park, is known as Indian
Henry's Hunting Ground.
Nisqually Vista Trail (1.2 miles). Starting from the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor
Center, this easy loop trail leads through a high-country meadow and offers excellent views
of Mt. Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier.
Pinnacle Peak Trail (2.5 miles). The trail begins with a gradual ascent from the parking
area at Reflection Lakes but soon becomes, and remains, a steep climb to the 5920 foot
saddle where the trail ends. Hiking boots are recommended since this trail has either a snow
or loose rock surface all summer. From the saddle to the top of Pinnacle Peak is a
precipitous scramble on loose, unstable rock. Hikers wishing to get to the top should use
extreme caution and have proper equipment.
Rampart Ridge Trail (4.6 miles). Also known as "The Ramparts," this ridge is the remnant
of an ancient lava flow which originated at the summit of Mount Rainier. The loop can be
hiked in either direction, but going clockwise keeps Mount Rainier in front more of the time
and is thus recommended. The hike begins near the National Park Inn and climbs steeply
through dense forest to the top of the ridge. Once on the ridgetop it is 1.3 miles of relatively
level hiking before starting the descent along the Wonderland Trail back to Longmire.
Skyline Trail (5 miles). Starting from the Paradise parking lot this loop trail climbs 2 miles
until reaching Panorama Point, where a toilet is provided for hikers. Past Panorama Point
the trail begins its one mile descent to the junction with the Golden Gate Trail. Another 0.75
miles and the Skyline Trail reaches the Stevens-Van Trump Memorial and its junction with
the Paradise Glacier Trail. From here it descends into the Paradise Valley, then climbs
slightly to Myrtle Falls and finally back to Paradise.
Trail of the Shadows (0.5 mile). A self-guiding trail starting from the National Park Inn that
leads past an early homestead and numerous plant and flower species.
Van Trump Park Trail (5.8 miles). Starting from a parking lot four miles east of Longmire
(parking is often full), the trail climbs 2000 feet to Comet Falls, one of the highest waterfalls
in the park, and then onwards to Van Trump Park. For two miles the trail climbs steadily up
hill until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. From there it switchbacks 0.6 mile uphill to the
junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is to the right, where the trail winds
through the meadows until it dead ends in 0.5 mile.
Southeast Area Trails
Grove of the Patriarchs (1.5 miles). Starting near the Stevens Canyon entrance,
this easy trail leads to an isolated grove of gigantic trees. Isolated on an island and thus
protected from fire, the small area contains 20 western red cedars more than 25 feet in
circumference; among them is the largest cedar in the Park. There are ten Douglas-firs over
25 feet in circumference; one is 35 feet. The trees are estimated to be nearly 1000 years
old.
Indian Bar Trail (14.5 miles). Starting from the parking area at Box Canyon, this trail
covers a unique section of the Wonderland Trail. Miles of ridge-walking through alpine
meadows with views of the southeast side of Mount Rainier, ending in a broad green valley
into which pour a dozen waterfalls. One of the legendary places in the Park. A great spot to
sit in the moonlight on a late-August night and listen to the bull elk bugling. Generally
snow-free late July through September.
Life Systems Trail (0.5 mile). From the Ohanapecosh Campground this easy trail winds
through Douglas fir and hemlocks to a bubbling hot spring.
Shriner Peak Trail (8 miles). Hikers should be aware that this trail is steep (over 3400 feet
of elevation gain) and shadeless! Carry water and start your hike early in the day to avoid
the hottest afternoon hours! Although this trail begins in the forest, it soon climbs into an old
burn area that is open and shadeless. For 2.5 miles the trail continues its steep ascent to
the top of the ridge. After a .5 mile walk along the ridge top, the route becomes a series of
steep switchbacks for the final climb to an amazing viewpoint. The trailhead is 3.5 miles from
the Stevens Canyon entrance.
Silver Falls Trail (3 miles). This relatively level trail leads from Ohanapecosh Campground
along the river to a waterfall that is a popular with families. Opportunities to see
woodpeckers, deer, and other wildlife abound.
Three Lakes Trail (12 miles). Rising 2700 feet from the trailhead at Laughingwater Creek,
the trail leads hikers through the forest and up to a ridge where hikers will find three small
mountain lakes. Mount Rainier can be seen by taking a short half-mile hike beyond the third
lake and emerging from the forest into an open area.
Northwest Area Trails
Carbon Glacier Trail (7 miles). This trail gains 1100 feet of elevation as it leads from the
Ipsut Creek campground along the Carbon river and up to the Carbon Glacier.
Carbon River Rain Forest (0.3 mile). Located near the Carbon River park entrance, this
easy day hike explores a unique rain forest environment.
Chenuis Falls Trail (0.4 miles). This short trail crosses the Carbon River to a small
waterfall. The trailhead is located 3.5 miles east of the Carbon River Ranger Station.
Green Lake Trail (3.6 miles). Passing through an old-growth forest on its way to Green
Lake, the trailhead for this trail is located three miles east of the Carbon River Ranger
Station.
Lake James Trail (17 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this trail climbs
3450 feet through switchbacks and then through a dry, open forest before reaching
subalpine meadows and eventually the boulder-strewn meadows of Windy Gap. Beyond
Windy Gap the trail descends to Lake James. Look for mountain goats near Windy Gap.
Moraine Park Trail (11 miles). This trail gains 3300 feet of elevation as it leads from the Ipsut
Creek campground along the Carbon river, past the Carbon Glacier, and up to a wildflower-
filled meadow. The last two miles of this trail lead up steep switchbacks.
Mystic Lake Trail (15.8 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground this trail gains
3900 feet as it crosses the Carbon River, parallels the Carbon Glacier, and then passes
through Morraine Park. After passing over two ridges the trail descends to Mystic Lake.
Northern Loop Trail (35 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this multi-day
trek passes through the most pristine wilderness in the park, visits a natural bridge, passes
the Carbon Glacier, and leads along numerous mountain lakes. Total elevation gain along
the route is 8500 feet ! This is a serious trail !
Spray Park Trail (6 miles). Beginning from the Mowich Lake campground this trail leads to a
waterfall and the meadows of Spray Park, as well as views of Mowich Glacier. Total elevation
gain is 1300 feet. Mowich is the indian name for "deer".
Tolmie Peak Trail (6.5 miles). Located 17 miles down the dusty Mowich Lake Road, this
trail ascends 1010 feet to Eunice Lake and the beautiful views and meadows of Tolmie Peak.
Windy Gap Trail (14 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this trail climbs
3450 feet through switchbacks and then through a dry, open forest before reaching
subalpine meadows and eventually the boulder-strewn meadows of Windy Gap. Look for
mountain goats near Windy Gap.
Northeast Area Trails
Burroughs Mountain Trail (7 miles). Starting from the Sunrise parking area, this trail
ascends 900 feet past Shadow Lake and up to an overlook of the White River and Emmons
Glacier before reaching a plateau at near Burroughs Mountain.
Mt. Fremont Lookout Trail (5.5 miles). This trail starts at Sunrise, passes Frozen Lake,
and extends through meadows and rocky crags for a total elevation gain of 1200 feet.
Naches Peak Loop Trail (3.5 miles). An easy loop that gains 500 feet and is one of
the most popular hikes in the park. The trailhead is at Tipsoo Lake, 0.5 miles west of
Chinook Pass on SR 410. The trail offers amazing views of the mountain and passes
through beautiful subalpine meadows.
Owyhigh Lakes Trail (7 miles). The trailhead for this trail lies two miles from the White
River entrance. The trail climbs 1350 feet through forests and meadows before reaching a
series of secluded lakes. Be aware that this is one of the park's few trails that does not offer
any views of Mount Rainier.
Pacific Crest Trail (10.5 miles). The Pacific Crest Trail stretches from Mexico to Canada, -
you ready for a hike? - but the portion within the park lies along the eastern boundary
and offers beautiful views as the trail rises and falls over 1000 feet of elevation change. The
trail can be accessed at Chinook Pass where it crosses SR 410 or from the Tipsoo Lake
Loop Trail.
Palisades Lakes Trail (7 miles). From the trailhead at Sunrise this trail ascends 1200 feet
past several lakes and meadows. Although the trail has no views of the mountain, hikers
often see elk, marmots and pikas along the way. The spur trail to Hidden Lake is worth
taking for the beautiful scenery around the secluded lake.
Shadow Lake Trail (3 miles). One of the many easy trails in the Sunrise area, this trail
descends to Shadow lake and intersects with numerous other trails, making for interesting
day-hike possibilities.
Sourdough Ridge Trail (1 mile). An easy trail with guided markers along the way,
this short trail in the Sunrise area is a good option for families.
Summerland Trail (8.5 miles). From the trailhead three miles from the White River
entrance this trail ascends 1500 feet. Starting in forest, it rises to the open but brushy upper
valley of Fryingpan Creek where hikers find good views of Mount Rainier. Shortly after
crossing the creek at a small cascade, the trail climbs steeply for another 0.5 mile before
reaching the open subalpine meadows of Summerland. This is one of Mount Rainier's most
crowded trails, hosting several hundred hikers per day on a nice summer weekend, so be
aware that parking can be a problem. Mountain goats and elk are frequently sighted.
- There is no better way to experience Mount Rainier's
joyous beauty than to pick one of the following 50
hikes that matches your hiking levels. From wildflower
meadows, to breathtaking glaciers, to shimmering lake
views with Mount Rainier reflecting across their waters
- this is hiking at its best. Our hiking guide will give
you an overview of the opportunities and our trail
maps will fill in even more. Family hikes too!
Southwest Area Trails
Bench Lake Trail (2.5 miles). Starti from the
trailhead one and a half miles east of the Reflection
Lakes parking area on the south side of the road.
This trail is a succession of gradual ups and downs as
it crosses a series of low ridges and rises 700 feet.
The path first reaches Bench Lake after 0.75 miles,
then continues another 0.5 miles to Snow Lake. Most
years these lakes do not melt out until late July and
the trail can be muddy until then.
4600 feet higher on the slopes of the mountain. The hike is long, arduous and potentially
hazardous if the weather turns nasty. Make sure you have waterproof shoes - at 9 miles
with glaciers - its not a day hike for the kids !
Comet Falls Trail (3.8 miles). Starting four miles east of Longmire on the road towards
Paradise, this trail visits one of the highest waterfalls in the park, Comet Falls. For two miles
the trail climbs steadily up hill until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. From there it
switchbacks 0.6 mile uphill to the junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is
to the right, where the trail winds through the meadows until it dead ends in 0.5 miles. Be
sure to bring your camera.
Eagle Peak Trail (7.2 miles). This trail climbs over 2900 feet from the trailhead near the
Longmire museum to the peak of the saddle. For the first two miles the trail ascends steeply
through dense forest to a small stream, then continues another mile to a meadow. Beyond
the meadow the trail is much steeper and rocky as it climbs the final 0.5 miles to the 5700 ft.
saddle.
- Emerald Ridge Trail (17.2 miles). Starting from the
Puyallup River trailhead (near the Nisqually entrance), this
trail climbs over 2100 feet to Emerald Ridge, named for its
emerald green subalpine meadows. During late July and
August the meadows showcase a variety of brilliantly
colored flowers. The first 1.5 miles of trail climbs gradually
through old-growth forest to the South Puyallup Camp. From
the camp, the trail becomes very rocky and climbs more
steeply.
Gobblers Knob Trail and "Mount Wow" (12.8 miles). The trailhead is located near the
Nisqually entrance, near the end of the Westside Road (hike 4 miles up the closed portion of
the road to Round Pass and the trailhead). Lake George is a pristine mountain lake, nestled
in the northwest shoulder of Mount Wow. The rock outcrop of Gobblers Knob is situated at
the north end of Mount Wow, a mountain whose name means "goat." The hike to Lake
George is easy with a gradual incline. It is popular for families with small children. The
hike up to Gobblers Knob Lookout is an additional 1.5 miles and much steeper.
Golden Lakes Trail (34.5 miles). From the trailhead at the end of Westside Road, the trail
leads to an area of fifteen or more small lakes was so named because of the golden sunset
colors reflected from the lakes' surfaces. The meadows of Sunset Park are abundant with
wildflowers in mid-summer and are host to black bears foraging on the plentiful supply of
huckleberries early in the fall. Gorgeous spot for photos.
Indian Henrys Hunting Ground (via Kautz Creek - 11.5 miles). The trail begins near the
Kautz Creek Picnic Area and ascends 3000 feet, passing by Kautz Creek and through an
old growth forest before rapidly climbing to the south flank of Mt Ararat. The trail soon enters
a series of meadows before climbing a final ridge and descending to the Ranger Cabin in
the meadows of Indian Henrys. These areas are the home of several bears as well as deer
and other animals.
Indian Henrys Hunting Ground (from Longmire - 13 miles). The trail begins at Longmire
and later joins the Wonderland Trail before connecting with the Rampart Ridge Trail.
Scenery includes old growth forests, mountain meadows, and mountain lakes before
reaching the Ranger Patrol Cabin in the meadows of Indian Henrys. Total elevation gain is
2400 feet.
About Indian Henry: Indian Henry was a Native American that guided John Muir and
worked with Longmire at Mount Rainier in the late 1800's. He was relatively well off, and
white settlers did a great deal of speculating about how he got that way. Some said that he
had salvaged gold from a wrecked Spanish ship, and that he had packed his fortune off to a
secret cache on Mount Rainier; or that he had a gold mine on the mountain;or that he had
found gold that once belonged to Chief Leschi, the great leader of the Nisqually Tribe.
Some believed it was only Indian Henry's natural shrewdness that made him wealthy, noting
that he altered the sign pointing the way to Mount Rainier to divert visitors on an
unnecessary detour to his farm, where he would charge them for supplies and lodging.
Indian Henry's white neighbors were curious enough about his wealth to follow him to his
secret summer goat-hunting area on the slopes of Mount Rainier. They found no gold there,
but a luxurious, flower-filled valley that rivaled Paradise for beauty. The place, in the
southwest corner of what is now the Mount Rainier National Park, is known as Indian
Henry's Hunting Ground.
- Klapatche Park Trail (21 miles). Beginning at the end of the West
Side Road, this trail climbs along a closed road and then rises
another 1700 feet as it passes by a serene mountain lake,
meadows abundant with subalpine wildflowers, slopes dotted with
mountain goats, breathtaking views of Mount Rainier before
arriving at a high mountain meadow. Backcountry campsites at
Klapatche Park are often full during summer.
- Lake George Trail (9.8 miles). The Lake George trail travels for
four miles along the closed portion of the West Side Road before
gradually rising 390 feet to the pristine mountain lake.
Narada Falls Trail (9 miles). Starting across the road from the
Longmire museum, this trail climbs 1700 feet as it crosses the
Nisqually River, continues along the west side of the Paradise
River, and rises to Narada Falls.
Nisqually Vista Trail (1.2 miles). Starting from the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor
Center, this easy loop trail leads through a high-country meadow and offers excellent views
of Mt. Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier.
Pinnacle Peak Trail (2.5 miles). The trail begins with a gradual ascent from the parking
area at Reflection Lakes but soon becomes, and remains, a steep climb to the 5920 foot
saddle where the trail ends. Hiking boots are recommended since this trail has either a snow
or loose rock surface all summer. From the saddle to the top of Pinnacle Peak is a
precipitous scramble on loose, unstable rock. Hikers wishing to get to the top should use
extreme caution and have proper equipment.
Rampart Ridge Trail (4.6 miles). Also known as "The Ramparts," this ridge is the remnant
of an ancient lava flow which originated at the summit of Mount Rainier. The loop can be
hiked in either direction, but going clockwise keeps Mount Rainier in front more of the time
and is thus recommended. The hike begins near the National Park Inn and climbs steeply
through dense forest to the top of the ridge. Once on the ridgetop it is 1.3 miles of relatively
level hiking before starting the descent along the Wonderland Trail back to Longmire.
Skyline Trail (5 miles). Starting from the Paradise parking lot this loop trail climbs 2 miles
until reaching Panorama Point, where a toilet is provided for hikers. Past Panorama Point
the trail begins its one mile descent to the junction with the Golden Gate Trail. Another 0.75
miles and the Skyline Trail reaches the Stevens-Van Trump Memorial and its junction with
the Paradise Glacier Trail. From here it descends into the Paradise Valley, then climbs
slightly to Myrtle Falls and finally back to Paradise.
- Snow Lake Trail (2.5 miles). Starting from a trailhead
1.5 miles east of Reflection Lakes, this trail climbs to
Bench Lake, named for the flat area around the lake
that is called "The Bench." The trail is a succession of
gradual ups and downs as it crosses a series of low
ridges. The path first reaches Bench Lake after 0.75
of a mile, then continues another 0.5 mile to Snow
Lake. Most years these lakes do not melt out until late
July and the trail can be muddy until then.
Trail of the Shadows (0.5 mile). A self-guiding trail starting from the National Park Inn that
leads past an early homestead and numerous plant and flower species.
Van Trump Park Trail (5.8 miles). Starting from a parking lot four miles east of Longmire
(parking is often full), the trail climbs 2000 feet to Comet Falls, one of the highest waterfalls
in the park, and then onwards to Van Trump Park. For two miles the trail climbs steadily up
hill until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. From there it switchbacks 0.6 mile uphill to the
junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is to the right, where the trail winds
through the meadows until it dead ends in 0.5 mile.
Southeast Area Trails
Grove of the Patriarchs (1.5 miles). Starting near the Stevens Canyon entrance,
this easy trail leads to an isolated grove of gigantic trees. Isolated on an island and thus
protected from fire, the small area contains 20 western red cedars more than 25 feet in
circumference; among them is the largest cedar in the Park. There are ten Douglas-firs over
25 feet in circumference; one is 35 feet. The trees are estimated to be nearly 1000 years
old.
Indian Bar Trail (14.5 miles). Starting from the parking area at Box Canyon, this trail
covers a unique section of the Wonderland Trail. Miles of ridge-walking through alpine
meadows with views of the southeast side of Mount Rainier, ending in a broad green valley
into which pour a dozen waterfalls. One of the legendary places in the Park. A great spot to
sit in the moonlight on a late-August night and listen to the bull elk bugling. Generally
snow-free late July through September.
Life Systems Trail (0.5 mile). From the Ohanapecosh Campground this easy trail winds
through Douglas fir and hemlocks to a bubbling hot spring.
Shriner Peak Trail (8 miles). Hikers should be aware that this trail is steep (over 3400 feet
of elevation gain) and shadeless! Carry water and start your hike early in the day to avoid
the hottest afternoon hours! Although this trail begins in the forest, it soon climbs into an old
burn area that is open and shadeless. For 2.5 miles the trail continues its steep ascent to
the top of the ridge. After a .5 mile walk along the ridge top, the route becomes a series of
steep switchbacks for the final climb to an amazing viewpoint. The trailhead is 3.5 miles from
the Stevens Canyon entrance.
Silver Falls Trail (3 miles). This relatively level trail leads from Ohanapecosh Campground
along the river to a waterfall that is a popular with families. Opportunities to see
woodpeckers, deer, and other wildlife abound.
Three Lakes Trail (12 miles). Rising 2700 feet from the trailhead at Laughingwater Creek,
the trail leads hikers through the forest and up to a ridge where hikers will find three small
mountain lakes. Mount Rainier can be seen by taking a short half-mile hike beyond the third
lake and emerging from the forest into an open area.
Northwest Area Trails
Carbon Glacier Trail (7 miles). This trail gains 1100 feet of elevation as it leads from the
Ipsut Creek campground along the Carbon river and up to the Carbon Glacier.
Carbon River Rain Forest (0.3 mile). Located near the Carbon River park entrance, this
easy day hike explores a unique rain forest environment.
Chenuis Falls Trail (0.4 miles). This short trail crosses the Carbon River to a small
waterfall. The trailhead is located 3.5 miles east of the Carbon River Ranger Station.
Green Lake Trail (3.6 miles). Passing through an old-growth forest on its way to Green
Lake, the trailhead for this trail is located three miles east of the Carbon River Ranger
Station.
Lake James Trail (17 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this trail climbs
3450 feet through switchbacks and then through a dry, open forest before reaching
subalpine meadows and eventually the boulder-strewn meadows of Windy Gap. Beyond
Windy Gap the trail descends to Lake James. Look for mountain goats near Windy Gap.
Moraine Park Trail (11 miles). This trail gains 3300 feet of elevation as it leads from the Ipsut
Creek campground along the Carbon river, past the Carbon Glacier, and up to a wildflower-
filled meadow. The last two miles of this trail lead up steep switchbacks.
Mystic Lake Trail (15.8 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground this trail gains
3900 feet as it crosses the Carbon River, parallels the Carbon Glacier, and then passes
through Morraine Park. After passing over two ridges the trail descends to Mystic Lake.
Northern Loop Trail (35 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this multi-day
trek passes through the most pristine wilderness in the park, visits a natural bridge, passes
the Carbon Glacier, and leads along numerous mountain lakes. Total elevation gain along
the route is 8500 feet ! This is a serious trail !
Spray Park Trail (6 miles). Beginning from the Mowich Lake campground this trail leads to a
waterfall and the meadows of Spray Park, as well as views of Mowich Glacier. Total elevation
gain is 1300 feet. Mowich is the indian name for "deer".
Tolmie Peak Trail (6.5 miles). Located 17 miles down the dusty Mowich Lake Road, this
trail ascends 1010 feet to Eunice Lake and the beautiful views and meadows of Tolmie Peak.
Windy Gap Trail (14 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this trail climbs
3450 feet through switchbacks and then through a dry, open forest before reaching
subalpine meadows and eventually the boulder-strewn meadows of Windy Gap. Look for
mountain goats near Windy Gap.
Northeast Area Trails
Burroughs Mountain Trail (7 miles). Starting from the Sunrise parking area, this trail
ascends 900 feet past Shadow Lake and up to an overlook of the White River and Emmons
Glacier before reaching a plateau at near Burroughs Mountain.
- Crystal Lakes Trail (6 miles). The trail to the Crystal
Lakes starts along SR 410, four miles north of Cayuse
Pass. The trail ascends 2300 feet through a forest,
with excellent views of Mount Rainier before nearing
Crystal mountain. Lower Crystal Lake is the smaller of
the two lakes, with Upper Crystal Lake lying in a basin
0.5 miles further along the trail.
Glacier Basin Trail (7 miles). From the White River
Campground this trail climbs 1280 feet along an old
mining road. Glacier Basin is a good place to look for
mountain goats on the slopes.
Mt. Fremont Lookout Trail (5.5 miles). This trail starts at Sunrise, passes Frozen Lake,
and extends through meadows and rocky crags for a total elevation gain of 1200 feet.
Naches Peak Loop Trail (3.5 miles). An easy loop that gains 500 feet and is one of
the most popular hikes in the park. The trailhead is at Tipsoo Lake, 0.5 miles west of
Chinook Pass on SR 410. The trail offers amazing views of the mountain and passes
through beautiful subalpine meadows.
Owyhigh Lakes Trail (7 miles). The trailhead for this trail lies two miles from the White
River entrance. The trail climbs 1350 feet through forests and meadows before reaching a
series of secluded lakes. Be aware that this is one of the park's few trails that does not offer
any views of Mount Rainier.
Pacific Crest Trail (10.5 miles). The Pacific Crest Trail stretches from Mexico to Canada, -
you ready for a hike? - but the portion within the park lies along the eastern boundary
and offers beautiful views as the trail rises and falls over 1000 feet of elevation change. The
trail can be accessed at Chinook Pass where it crosses SR 410 or from the Tipsoo Lake
Loop Trail.
Palisades Lakes Trail (7 miles). From the trailhead at Sunrise this trail ascends 1200 feet
past several lakes and meadows. Although the trail has no views of the mountain, hikers
often see elk, marmots and pikas along the way. The spur trail to Hidden Lake is worth
taking for the beautiful scenery around the secluded lake.
Shadow Lake Trail (3 miles). One of the many easy trails in the Sunrise area, this trail
descends to Shadow lake and intersects with numerous other trails, making for interesting
day-hike possibilities.
Sourdough Ridge Trail (1 mile). An easy trail with guided markers along the way,
this short trail in the Sunrise area is a good option for families.
Summerland Trail (8.5 miles). From the trailhead three miles from the White River
entrance this trail ascends 1500 feet. Starting in forest, it rises to the open but brushy upper
valley of Fryingpan Creek where hikers find good views of Mount Rainier. Shortly after
crossing the creek at a small cascade, the trail climbs steeply for another 0.5 mile before
reaching the open subalpine meadows of Summerland. This is one of Mount Rainier's most
crowded trails, hosting several hundred hikers per day on a nice summer weekend, so be
aware that parking can be a problem. Mountain goats and elk are frequently sighted.
- Wonderland Trail (93 miles). The Wonderland
Trail is a multi-day trek that encircles the mountain and
provides views so amazing that the trail is frequently voted
among the best trails in the world by backpacking
magazines. Permits are required for overnight use along the
trail, and hikers should be in good shape and have
backpacking experience before attempting this trail. Food
may be cached along the trail; see http://www.nps.
gov/mora/trail/wonder.htm for details. Portions of the trail
can also be done as day-hikes for the less adventurous.
| . |
| Check out these hiking videos made by visitors to Mount Rainier. A couple of the videos are outtakes from commercial hiking DVD's. The Wonderland trail is nearly 100 miles long so there is lots to see. Some of the best hikes are the long ones to Camp Muir where you can slide down the glacier on short hike to reflection lakes out of Paradise. See our Rainier Hiking Map Section for more details. HIKE RAINIER ! Put your own video on youtube this summer. |
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Mt. Rainier:
.
• Visitor Centers
• Recreation
• Lodging - Motels
• Lodging - Inns - B&B
• Lodging - Cabins
• Camping / RV Parks
• Shopping
• Rainier Cam
• Restaurants
• Climb Rainier
• Hike Rainier
• Bike Rainier
• Rainier Maps
• Satellite Map
• 360° Rainier View
• Photo Gallery
• Photography
• Videos
• Travel Links
• Fun Facts - History
• Rainier News
• Mt. St. Helens