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Mount Rainier National Park

Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

Mt. Rainier Hikes

Mt. Rainier hikes are an incredibly popular adventure with outdoor enthusiasts, as Mount Rainier National Park is the gem of Washington State. Comprising nearly 370 square miles of pristine scenery, the star of the show is 4,392 m Mount Rainier, the tallest mountain in the state. With endless carpets of lush wildflowers, dense forests, and rushing waterfalls around every turn, Mt. Rainier hikes are certainly a dream for hikers and adventurers of all ages. Drawing over 2 million visitors each year, Mount Rainier National Park is a a premier destination in the Pacific Northwest and a haven for hiking, photographing, camping, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. If you are after a scenic adventure in Washington, there are a wide variety of Mt. Rainier hikes that will be sure not to disappoint!

Mount Rainier National Park was established in 1899 as the fifth national park in the United States. The park protects a portion of the Cascade Range, 91,000 acres of old-growth forest, and countless gorgeous wildflower meadows, glaciers, and valleys. As the foundation document for the park reads, “The purpose of Mount Rainier National Park is to protect and preserve unimpaired the majestic icon of Mount Rainier, along with its natural and cultural resources, values, and dynamic processes. The park provides opportunities for people to experience, understand, and care for the park environment, and also provides for wilderness experiences and sustains wilderness values.”

With a dizzying array of trails, campsites, and stellar corners to explore, we’ve put together a list of our favorite Mt. Rainier hikes to help you plan your trip. This is just the start, though- there’s so much to see here!

The 10 Epic Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

There are so many hikes to choose from in Mount Rainier National Park, it can be hard to know where to start! We’ve chosen some of our favourite trails in all corners of the park to help you choose your adventure.

Every kind of trail junkie can find their perfect Mt. Rainier hike here. There are family-friendly trails, more challenging hikes, and long multi-day backpacking trips on offer, so you’ll be able to choose the right trail no matter what you’re in the mood for. With lots of mid-difficulty routes in the park, intermediate hikers can balance a good workout and fabulous views. On hot days, hikes featuring waterfalls are a hugely popular choice in the park. And if you’ve got little ones tagging along, you can even find stroller-friendly trails to enjoy!

No matter which one of these Mt. Ranier hikes you decide to take, you’ll be treated to splendid views of the snow-clad Cascades, countless flowers, waterfalls, or ancient trees.

  • Pinnacle Peak Saddle Trail - The Pinnacle Peak Saddle trail offers a lofty viewpoint over the Paradise area with only moderate effort required. With no technical challenges and a consistent steady incline, it offers a great quick workout with views of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams to reward you.
  • Grove of the Patriarchs Trail - The Grove of the Patriarchs hike is a family-friendly hike that takes you through an old-growth forest and over a suspension bridge. This relaxed path requires very little elevation gain but gets you right up next to trees over 91 m tall. En route, you’ll notice interpretive signs that offer nice insight into the natural flora and fauna of the forest.
  • Skyline Loop Trail - The Skyline Loop Trail boasts exceptional views and wide swathes of wildflowers in the summertime. Not only will you see countless wildflowers, but this moderate-length hike packs a punch when it comes to stunning scenery. Expect to pass by cascading waterfalls and mighty glaciers. Of course, the star of the show is the grand view of Mount Rainier.
  • Tipsoo Lake Trail - The Tipsoo Lake Loop is an easy, short hike around a lake suitable for all ages and skill levels. This short hike is often combined with an ascent of Naches Peak, but the lake loop in itself is perfect for a low-key outing. It offers extremely mild elevation gain and the chance to see lush wildflowers.
  • Naches Peak Loop - The popular Naches Peak Loop hike offers diverse alpine scenery in a short, easy to complete loop. You’ll crest a small valley, enjoy views of Tipsoo Lake, walk through vast wildflower meadows, and do it all with views of Mount Rainier. The Naches Peak Loop hike follows the Pacific Crest Trail for a portion of the trek, giving you the honor of a few steps on an epic thru-hike.
  • Tolmie Peak Trail - The Tolmie Peak Trail takes you up to an old fire lookout, where you’ll enjoy incredible up-close views of Mount Rainier and Eunice Lake. These two viewpoints are go-to spots for sunrise and sunset photographers. The Tolmie Peak Trail crosses over part of the Wonderland Trail, one of Washington’s most impressive long-distance trails.
  • Narada Falls to Reflection Lake - The hike between Narada Falls and Reflection Lake links the serene Reflection Lake with the thundering Narada Falls. Instead of driving to see both, you can take this enjoyable trail in between. This trail can be hiked in either direction, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your day’s plans. On a hot day, the cool mist of the falls and water of the lake is a welcome treat.
  • Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge - The Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge trail is an easy hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you to a small, icy lake. The trail also rewards you with great views from Sourdough Ridge of Mount Rainier itself. The hike is fairly short, requires little elevation gain, and is perfect for a quick outing or a trip with adventurous kids. Enjoy this quiet, scenic hike and savour those peaceful moments on the lakeshore.
  • Silver Falls Hike - The Silver Falls hike is a family-friendly hike that takes you to a cascading waterfall and that can be easily linked with the popular Grove of the Patriarchs trail. The hike requires little elevation gain and the trail is wide, making it a nice choice for families. As you hike, you can read the collection of interpretive signs along the trail that highlight the history of this spot.
  • Fremont Lookout Trail - Watchmen used to watch for wildfires from the cabin atop Mount Fremont, but now the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail serves to give you an excellent vantage point over Grand Peak, Redstone Peak, and Skyscraper Mountain. Take this perfect half-day hike in Rainier National Park for great views and just enough of a challenge!

Scroll down to see the full list of hiking trails in Mount Rainier National Park.

When is the Best Time to Hike in Mount Rainier National Park?

Mount Rainier National Park experiences warm, enjoyable summers and cool winters with lots of precipitation. Parts of the park close in the late fall and remain closed through the spring, so we recommend visiting in the summer months of June through September if you are looking to experience the best of the Mt. Rainier hikes. If you’re hoping to catch the wildflower blooms in their full glory, a trip between mid-July and mid-August tends to be the best option.

While the summer months offer the best weather and best flowers, they do also bring the heaviest crowds. If you’re okay with running into potential leftover snow on the trail or missing the flowers, visiting in June or mid-September can give you more privacy on the trails while still offering suitable hiking weather.

If you’re seeking to enjoy winter activities in the park, like snowshoeing, visiting between December and early March will be your best bet. Just come prepared, as rangers and services may be unavailable. Take care to plan your visit carefully, since some roads in the park are subject to seasonal closures.

Other Outdoor Activities in Mount Rainier National Park

Mt. Rainier hikes are by far the most popular activity within the national park, but it’s certainly not the only way to spend your time here. The park is a fantastic spot to camp, with both soft-side and hard-side sites available. There are also some backcountry spots you can use during your time in the park, especially if you’re completing a backpacking trip. Most sites need to be booked in advance.

In the winter months, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and backcountry skiing and snowboarding are very popular. Many hiking trails are suitable for snowshoeing, and most backcountry users will hike up to Camp Muir to ski or snowboard the Muir snowfields.

For downhill skiing and snowboarding in-bounds, Crystal Mountain is a huge draw. This top-rated resort boasts lots of expert runs. If you’re a powder hound, try White Pass Ski Area, a more off the beaten path zone with great natural terrain.

How to Plan a Trip to Mount Rainier National Park

A hiking trip in Mount Rainier National Park is an unforgettable adventure, but you’ll want to put enough time and energy into planning to make your trip smooth. Whenever you’re planning a trip to a national park, there are fees, permits, transportation requirements, and day-to-day logistics to consider. The official website of the park is a great resource for trip planning, as is the National Park Service, which also posts up-to-date trail conditions, closures, and other important information.

Mount Rainier National Park Adventure Tours

Not so excited about hashing out the details of your itinerary? Letting the pros plan your adventure in Mount Rainier National Park takes the stress out of your holiday, letting you focus on your experiences. Check out some incredible adventure tours in Mount Rainier National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Rainier National Park

Do I need a pass or permit to enter Mount Rainier National Park?

Yes, you’ll need to purchase either a day pass or an America the Beautiful Pass to enter the park. This can be done online in advance or when entering the park gates.

How many days do you need in Mount Rainier National Park?

You could spend anywhere from a day to two weeks exploring the park! Most visitors come for one day or a weekend, but some devoted backpackers (like those completing the Wonderland Trail) will spend nearly two weeks in the park. We recommend two full days to have the time to enjoy several different hikes in the park.

Which city is closest to Mount Rainier National Park?

The closest major city to Mount Rainier National Park is Tacoma (80.5 km), which also has the closest international airport, the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Seattle is about 128.7 km from the park.

Can you camp in Mount Rainier National Park?

There are both frontcountry and backcountry campsites in the park. Make sure you book your spot ahead and get all the necessary permits before you pitch your tent.

Are dogs allowed in Mount Rainier National Park?

Dogs are not allowed on trails, in the wilderness, inside buildings, in amphitheatres, or on snow in the park. You can have your dog in the car and parking lot with you (on leash only), but because of the firm restrictions in nearly all other parts of the park, we do not recommend bringing dogs into the park at all.

Service animals (not including emotional support animals) are exempted.

Do you need a car in Mount Rainier National Park?

Currently, there is no public transportation available in the park. We recommend either driving your own car, renting a car, or booking a tour that includes transportation.

Explore other great hiking regions in Washington State:

Or check out other amazing hiking regions to explore in the United States.

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Mount Rainier National Park

Pinnacle Peak Saddle Trail

The Pinnacle Peak Saddle trail offers a lofty viewpoint over the Paradise area with only moderate effort required. With no technical challenges and a consistent steady incline, it offers a great quick workout with views of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams to reward you. The Pinnacle Peak Saddle trail is a great way to access a network of trails in the area- just look for the interconnecting tracks at the summit, or continue further along the ridge from the pinnacle of this hike.
Moderate
3.9 km
322 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Grove of the Patriarchs Trail

The Grove of the Patriarchs hike is a family-friendly 1.5mi hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes hikers through an old-growth forest and over a suspension bridge. This relaxed path requires very little elevation gain but gets you right up next to trees over 300ft tall. En route, you’ll notice interpretive signs that offer nice insight into the natural flora and fauna of the forest. For a quick walk in nature, this is a trail that promises a great outing.
Very Easy
1.8 km
16 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Skyline Loop Trail

The Skyline Loop Trail is a 5.5mi moderately difficult trail in Mount Rainier National Park that boasts exceptional views and wide swathes of wildflowers in the summertime. Not only will you see countless wildflowers, but this moderate-length hike packs a punch when it comes to stunning scenery. Expect to pass by cascading waterfalls and mighty glaciers. Of course, the star of the show is the grand view of Mount Rainier. This pretty hike is a favourite among locals and a must-do for anyone visiting the park.
Moderate
9.0 km
545 m
3-4.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Tipsoo Lake Trail

The Tipsoo Lake Loop is an easy, short hike around a lake suitable for all ages and skill levels. This short hike is often combined with an ascent of Naches Peak, but the lake loop in itself is perfect for a low-key outing. Do note that this hike can get wet in rainy weather, but it offers extremely mild elevation gain and the chance to see lush wildflowers. If you arrive later in the day, you could be treated to the trail all to yourself.
Very Easy
1.3 km
12 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Naches Peak Loop Hike

The popular Naches Peak Loop hike offers diverse alpine scenery in a short, easy to complete loop. You’ll crest a small valley, enjoy views of Tipsoo Lake, walk through vast wildflower meadows, and do it all with views of Mount Rainier. The Naches Peak Loop hike follows the Pacific Crest Trail for a portion of the trek, giving you the honor of a few steps on an epic thru-hike.
Moderate
5.3 km
194 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Tolmie Peak Trail

The Tolmie Peak Trail is a moderate hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you up to an old fire lookout, where you’ll enjoy incredible up-close views of Mount Rainier and Eunice Lake. Eunice Lake makes a beautiful alternative stopping point for those who don’t want to complete the entire hike. These two viewpoints are go-to spots for sunrise and sunset photographers. The Tolmie Peak Trail crosses over part of the Wonderland Trail, one of Washington’s most impressive long-distance trails. With just enough of a physical challenge to make you feel like you’ve earned your views but no technical sections, this hike is a perfect way to maximize your time in Mount Rainier National Park.
Moderate
9.0 km
470 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Narada Falls Trail

The Narada Falls Trail is an easy, family-friendly out and back route in Mount Rainier National Park that leads you to a very pretty waterfall among the dark green foliage of the forest. The trail is a great way to enjoy the falls without much effort or time required. While strollers won’t make it, little ones will love this fun trail.
Very Easy
3.9 km
263 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge Trail

The Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge trail is an easy hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you to a small, icy lake. The trail also rewards you with great views from Sourdough Ridge of Mount Rainier itself. The hike is fairly short, requires little elevation gain, and is perfect for a quick outing or a trip with adventurous kids. With plenty of signage, you won’t need to worry about route-finding. Enjoy this quiet, scenic hike and savour those peaceful moments on the lakeshore.
Easy
5.5 km
198 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Silver Falls Hike

The Silver Falls hike is a 3.0mi family-friendly hike in the southeastern portion of Mount Rainier National Park that takes you to a cascading waterfall and that can be easily linked with the popular Grove of the Patriarchs trail. The hike requires little elevation gain and the trail is wide, making it a nice choice for families. Years ago, visitors flocked to the waterfalls to soak in the springs, which were believed to have healing properties. You’re not allowed to swim in them anymore, but you can read the collection of interpretive signs along the trail that highlight the history of this spot.
Easy
6.4 km
215 m
1.5-2.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Fremont Lookout Trail

Watchmen used to watch for wildfires from the cabin atop Mount Fremont, but now the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail serves to give you an excellent vantage point over Grand Peak, Redstone Peak, and Skyscraper Mountain. This 5.6mi moderate hike follows Sourdough Ridge to the pretty Frozen Lake before branching off and ascending Mount Fremont to the lookout. With a new and improved stair system built into the rocky, steep portion of this trail, the approach to the top has become more reliable and easier to navigate. Take this perfect half-day hike in Rainier National Park for great views and just enough of a challenge!
Moderate
9.2 km
341 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Tolmie Peak, Alki Crest, and Florence Peak

The Tolmie Peak, Alki Crest, and Florence Peak trail is a moderate hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you up to an old fire lookout where you’ll enjoy incredible up-close views of Mount Rainier and Eunice Lake. From the lookout, you’ll hike to Alki Crest and Florence Peak, where even more expansive views await. This approach combines three worthwhile destinations in one route, and the more unique trail gives you a quieter journey to enjoy. For a lightly-trafficked day with plenty of amazing scenery and 3-in-1 satisfaction, this trail delivers.
Hard
13.8 km
796 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Narada Falls to Reflection Lake Hike

The hike between Narada Falls and Reflection Lake is a moderate trek in Rainier National Park that links the serene Reflection Lake with the thundering Narada Falls. Instead of driving to see both, you can take this enjoyable trail in between. This trail can be hiked in either direction, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your day’s plans. On a hot day, the cool mist of the falls and water of the lake is a welcome treat.
Moderate
5.8 km
284 m
2-2.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Comet and Christine Falls Trail

The Comet and Christine Falls Trail is a moderate hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you to two waterfalls in a pleasant, shaded forest. It’s a hike that falls on the more strenuous side of moderate, but it’s still a top pick for a hot summer day because of the cool, refreshing mist of the falls. With the thundering falls, flowing rivers, and verdant forest around you, this hike is a great half-day outing in the park. This hike provides a steady uphill climb, and thankfully, a previously steep section has been improved by the WTA to eliminate the technical challenge. For a few solid hours of cardio and some lovely moments spent by the rushing water, the Comet and Christine Falls Trail is a perfect choice.
Moderate
5.1 km
390 m
2-3h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Sunrise Rim Trail and Fremont Lookout

The Sunrise Rim Trail and Fremont Lookout hike is a 8.7mi moderately challenging lollipop trail in Mount Rainier National Park that offers splendid views of Mount Rainier, Mount Fremont, the Emmons Glacier, and more. This trail loops to several worthy spots, like the Glacier Overlook and the 1st and 2nd Burroughs, so you can customize it as you please. With expansive views and changing terrain, the Sunrise Rim Trail and Fremont Lookout hike is one of the most satisfying trails you can do in Mount Rainier National Park.
Moderate
14.0 km
595 m
4-6h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Burroughs Mountain Loop via Glacier Basin Trail

The Burroughs Mountain Loop via Glacier Basin Trail is a 10.3mi hard hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you between three peaks to various viewpoints. The trail is long but worth the effort, granting you up-close views of Mount Rainier, the Emmons Glacier, Sourdough Ridge, Mount Fremont, and more. If the full hike is too long for you, you can turn back from the first or second peaks and still have a fantastic day.
Hard
16.6 km
994 m
5.5-8h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Myrtle Falls Hike

The Myrtle Falls hike is a short, easy trail in Mount Rainier National Park that is perfect for families. This 0.8mi outing leads you to a gorgeous cascading waterfall nestled underneath the mountains. During the summer months, the trail is lined by wildflowers and verdant forest, making this short journey a memorable one.
Very Easy
1.3 km
46 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Camp Muir Hike

The hike to Camp Muir is a challenging, intense 8.0mi trek that should only be attempted by experienced adventurers. This hike is the highest you can get in Mount Rainier National Park without a climbing permit, offering up-close views of hanging glaciers, seracs, crevasses, and peaks that few hikers in the park ever find. The stone camp halfway up Mount Rainier has stood for nearly a century. It was named for naturalist John Muir, who mistakenly believed that the spot the camp sits on would provide shelter from the wind. Despite the wind that still heavily blows through the camp, the site still honors his legacy as one of the most influential individuals in the founding of this park. This route is strenuous, technical, snowy, and demanding both physically and mentally. The high elevation of the camp (over 10000ft) makes it a particular challenge for hikers not used to altitude. While this is the adventure of a lifetime for some, we recommend waiting until you have a foundational knowledge of mountaineering to attempt this trail.
Very Hard
13.5 km
1,404 m
6-9h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Panorama Point Hike

The hike from Paradise Inn to Panorama Point is a popular choice in Mount Rainier National Park, and this moderately challenging hike is a favourite year-round for hikers and snowshoers alike. With a great view of Rainier and plenty of wildflowers lining the trail in the summertime, Panorama Points ends up on the to-do list of many hikers visiting Washington. If you only have a few hours to spare but you want to enjoy classic Rainier views without any technical challenge, this hike is the one.
Moderate
6.6 km
385 m
2-3h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Spray Park Trail to Mount Pleasant

Spray Park is the perfect starting point for a trek to Mount Pleasant, and this moderate out and back trail in Mount Rainier National Park is a great way to experience the classic beauty of Rainier—wildflowers, waterfalls, mountain peak—without the same level of traffic you’d find on similar trails in the park. With a bit of a challenge on switchbacks making you feel like you earned your views. A pit-stop at Spray Falls on the way to Mount Pleasant makes for a perfectly charming day out.
Moderate
11.1 km
670 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Mount Rainier National Park

Sunrise Rim Trail

The Sunrise Rim Trail is a 5.0mi moderately challenging loop trail in Mount Rainier National Park that offers splendid views of Mount Rainier, Mount Fremont, the Emmons Glacier, and more. This trail loops to several worthy spots, like the Glacier Overlook and the 1st and 2nd Burroughs, so you can shorten it or hike it as an out and back if you’re not up to completing the entire trail. With expansive views and changing terrain, the Sunrise Rim Trail is one of the most satisfying hikes you can do in Mount Rainier National Park.
Moderate
8.9 km
340 m
2.5-3.5h

1-20 of 99 routes

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