Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge Trail

Route Description for Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge Trail

The hike to Frozen Lake on Sourdough Ridge Trail is a short and sweet trip that offers great views of Mount Rainier from atop Sourdough Ridge. With little elevation gain, this hike can be enjoyable for adventures of all skill levels. The trail is well-signed, so you shouldn’t need to worry about finding your way. The trail sees peak congestion in late morning and early afternoon, so consider visiting early in the day or later in the afternoon.

The trail starts just right of the ranger station at Sunrise and there are several signs pointing the way. It begins with a gradual uphill climb. Watch for Mount Rainier from atop the ridge.
There is a fork in the road a few yards into the hike- stay right. There is another signpost atop Sourdough Ridge. Here, the trail evens out and is largely flat and even. Keep left at the signpost, continuing along the top of the ridge until you see the trail marker pointing to the turnoff for the lake.

Take a gentle descent off the ridge to Frozen Lake. Enjoy the ice-clad little lake, maybe having a picnic or snapping some photos. From the lake, you can either return the way you came or extend your day by enjoying one of the trails nearby. Hop onto a section of the Wonderland Trail, go up the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail, or just enjoy your easy trip home, retracing your steps back to the Sunrise station.

Trail Highlights

Mount Rainier

Although Mount Rainier (4,392 m) is a given highlight for most of the trails in the area, this hike offers a nice view of the largest active stratovolcano in the Cascade Range.

Insider Hints for Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge Trail

• Try to time your hike for wildflower season (July and August).
• This trail closes in the winter. If you’re planning to hike in shoulder season, make sure to check current openings and closures before visiting.