Within 24 hours of being in Mt. Rainier National Park, I knew it would be one of my favorites forever. Although the competition is stiff, it’s no wonder the 14,411-foot tallest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States caught my eye and my heart. Over the course of our five-day stay we experienced some of the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park and can’t wait to share them with you!
We’re here to provide a comprehensive guide to the best day hikes in Mount Rainier. Home to the largest alpine glacial system outside of Alaska, enjoyable trails lead to panoramic views of Washington State that you won’t want to miss! Whether you’re looking for an easy hike or a steep climb to high elevation, we have the perfect list of Mt. Rainier trails for day hikers like you!
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Planning Your Mount Rainier Hikes
Planning out the best day hikes in Mt Rainier National Park takes work! From permit systems and crowds in the summer months to closures and snowfall in the winter, a trip to Mount Rainier National Park requires ample planning in order for it to be a success!
Permits and Passes
Mount Rainier is an absolute beauty! It is one of the more popular National Parks so it requires timed entry permits between May and September. Additionally, you will need to purchase a National Park Pass to enter the park as well. I highly recommend getting the annual parks pass if you’re going to visit multiple times and/or visit multiple parks in a calendar year.
There are two areas of the park that require permits. The sunrise corridor in the Northwest and the Paradise Corridor which spans the whole southern end of the park require reservations to enter. Entry to the Paradise Corridor can occur from one of two entrances, near Ashford on the East end and Packwood on the West.
Reservations are required between 7 AM and 3 PM; if you arrive before or after this timeframe you can enter without a timed entry permit. If you are looking to secure a reservation, they are released in blocks 90 days in advance, with all advanced reservations released by May 1. Next-day reservations are released daily at 7 PM Pacific Time.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mt. Rainier is late summer. From late July to mid September the trails are in great condition, wildflowers are plentiful, and sunshine at some point in the day is more likely. Late summer provides the best temperatures and conditions for visiting Mount Rainier National Park.
If you can’t make it in the summer months, but want to experiences as many trails with as little snow as possible, early fall might just be the best thing to happen to Mount Rainier. The huckleberry bushes and other meadow flora start to turn red while Larches glow a bright yellow. A stark difference to the vibrant wildflowers of late summer, early fall is stunning in its own unique way.
If you’re looking for a unique time to visit Rainier with the fewest crowds, plan a trip in the winter months. The main access point for winter is Longmire and Paradise via the Nisqually Entrance. Trails this time of year will require snowshoeing or cross country skiing skills but you won’t forget the snowy mountain views!
Mt. Rainier Packing Essentials
Packing these essentials will help you be well-prepared for your adventure in Mount Rainier National Park. You can’t tackle the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park if you’re not comfortable and functional, so I recommend you download the packing list while you’re at it! (available soon)
Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking shirts and pants for warmth and comfort.
- Insulation:
Fleece jacket or sweater for warmth. - Multi Functional Sweater: Perfect for relaxing at camp or hitting the trail.
- Hiking Bottoms: A combination of pants and shorts depending on the weather.
- Rain Gear:Waterproof jacket and pants
- Outer Layer: Windproof, down jacket to keep you extra toasty!
- Hiking Boots and/or Sneakers: Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with good support.
- Hat: A warm hat for cold weather and a sun hat for sunny days.
- Gloves: Warm gloves you can wear for hiking and hanging.
- Socks: Moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters.
Gear
- Backpack: A backpack to carry your essentials on hikes.
- Two Water Bottles: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or other snacks for energy on the go.
- Sunglasses: With the sun constantly reflecting off the snow, you’ll be happy to have them.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from the sun.
- Insect Repellent: To protect yourself from bugs.
- First-Aid Kit: A basic first-aid kit for minor injuries.
- Headlamp & Flashlight: For early morning or evening hikes.
- Map and Compass: For navigation.
- Bear Spray: For safety in bear country.
- Trekking Poles: Optional balance sticks!
5 Family-Friendly Hikes in Mt. Rainier
These family-friendly hikes are great options for anyone visiting Mount Rainier National Park. These short strolls are perfect for young children and folks who might not consider themselves very mobile.
1. Myrtle Falls
Myrtle Falls is a short and stunning hike you can do from the Henry M Jackson Memorial Visitor Center in the Paradise Corridor. Paradise is famous for its great views of Mount Rainier and it’s incredible wildflower meadows. The iconic Myrtle Falls view is one of the best views in the park for minimum effort.
Paradise is located 19 miles east of the Nisqually Entrance and 12 miles east of Longmire. The road between Longmire and Paradise is plowed making this an awesome snowshoe view during those snowy, winter months.
2. Narada Falls
Narada Falls is the largest accessible waterfall by car and one of the most impressive in the park. From the parking area, cross the bridge to access the short but steep trail to the best view of the falls.
There is a view of the upper falls from the stone-faced bridge but the better view is from the Paradise River. The 168-foot-high waterfall is absolutely worth the stop on your trip through Rainier.
3. Trail of the Shadows
A well-maintained path that weaves through incredible old-growth forest across from the National Park Inn and the Longmire General Store. The trail includes educational plaques sharing information on the bubbling mineral springs and early homestead cabins as well as the plants and animals that call this area their home.
If you’re looking to extend your hike, check out the Rampart Ridge Loop. This ridge is the remnant of an ancient lava flow which originated at the summit of Mount Rainier and at 4.6 miles long with 1339 feet of elevation gain, it’s a nice day hike in Mt. Rainier National Park if you want to enjoy old growth forests and glimpses of the surrounding mountains.
4. Grove of the Patriarchs Trail
This trail is currently closed. Once they replace the suspension bridge (2027) that was washed away in a recent storm, it should be added to your list!
The Grove of the Patriarchs Trail is located in the Ohanapecosh area of the park just inside the Steven Canyon entrance. This self-guided nature trail leads you over the bridge to a small island on the Ohanapecosh river utilizing boardwalks and dirt paths to explore large old-growth Douglas-fir, silver fir, hemlock, and Western red cedar trees.
5. Tipsoo Lake
Open in summer only, Tipsoo Lake is a very popular hike. Located at Chinook Pass along State Route 410, this subalpine lake is set in a glacier-carved basin and surrounded by subalpine wildflower meadows. It receives a lot of snowfall in the winter months leaving remnants of snow well into June and July.
As one of the best day hikes in Mt Rainier National Park if you’re looking for ultimate ease with epic views, it gets busy quickly. Arrive early in the day or later in the evening to experience the wildflowers and Mount Rainier views with lesser crowds. Tack on the Naches Loop if you want to make your day hike a bit longer.
5 Moderate Mt. Rainier National Park Hikes
Some of the best day hikes in Mt Rainier National Park are considered moderate! With a bit more elevation gain and mileage than our family-friendly hikes, these hikes may be more challenging but this is definitely subjective.
6. Naches Loop
This incredible hike is great for the whole family. With gradual elevation gain and epic views, it’s sure to please every hiker! Views of Rainier surrounded by stunning wildflower filled meadows make this one of the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park.
Park at the street-side parking along Tipsoo Lake and complete the hike counter clockwise ending with a trip over the wooden bridge on the Pacific Crest Trail. If you’d like to make this trip a little bit longer, adding on Dewey Lake brings the hike’s total mileage to 6.7 miles.
7. Comet Falls
Visit one of the highest waterfalls in the park! The trail leads to an incredible view of the 320-foot waterfall. Choose to continue on the trail up to Van Trump Park where Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens are visible on a clear day to the south while the Kautz and Van Trump Glaciers dominate views of Mount Rainier to the north.
The trail is located about 4 miles from Longmire heading toward Paradise. The parking area is small and very busy; arrive early and have a plan b because there are no other parking areas nearby.
8. Pinnacle Peak
A steady uphill climb leads you to Pinnacle Saddle, a notch in the range with epic views of Mt. Rainier. Enjoy this stunning view or continue on through a number of rock scrambles to the summit. For being a quick little hike we added on to the end of our day, it wound up being on of my favorite hikes of the trip!
The hike begins across from Reflection Lakes and starts to climb right away. Ascend through the tress before hitting a patch of rocky switchbacks that show incredible views of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range. The Saddle provides incredible views and anyone weary of rock scrambles or heights should stop here! An unmaintained ‘trail’ does lead to the actual summit of Pinnacle Peak, however, it does include some pretty gnarly climbing. We continued toward the summit for a bit longer until we reached a super neat cutout in the rocky ridgeline before returning the way we came as cloud cover was rolling in.
9. Spray Park Trail to Mount Pleasant
An epic view of Mount Rainier and surrounding rock formations from wide open meadows is the payoff for summitting Mount Pleasant. Luckily, you’ll also pass a short spur trail for Spray Falls which is absolutely worth the stop. Please remember to stay on marked paths and rocks to prevent damage to this incredible ecosystem.
Located next to the privy at the Mowich Walk In Camping area, the trailhead begins on the Wonderland trail. The trail travels through dense forest before your first views of Rainier at Eagle Cliff. Once you’re back on the main trail, you’ll pass Eagle’s Roost Camp and waterfall before beginning the switchbacks. As you climb you’ll come into open meadows and eventually, views of Observation Rock, Echo Rock, and Tahoma (the Native American name for Rainier).
10. Mount Fremont Lookout Trail
Mount Fremont is one of the more popular fire lookout tower hikes and one of the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park. Arrive early to watch the sunrise glow on Tahoma or plan a sunset hike to watch the sun disappear behind the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States.
Leaving from the Sunrise Visitor Center, head up the Sourdough Ridge Trail until its’ intersection with the Wonderland Trail, Burroughs Mountain, and Mount Fremont Trail. A steady, rocky incline leads to the tower where you can enjoy views from variety of angles. With incredible 360-degree views, you can’t go wrong enjoying the nature in any direction. If you’re looking for a longer day hike, add on the Borroughs Mountain trail to combine two of the best hikes in the park .
5 Challenging Mount Rainier Hikes
If you ask me, the best hikes in Mt Rainier National Park are the hiking trails that less people are on. And generally, less people choose challenging hikes. We’re sharing five longer hikes that don’t require a wilderness permit.
11. Skyline Trail
This trail gets a bad reputation. It is very busy but I think it’s totally worth the crowds if this is your first time visiting Mount Rainier National Park. With a variety of spur trail options, including Paradise Glacier, Glacier Vista, and Muir Camp, as well as incredible views throughout the entire hike, the skyline loop trail is a must do in my opinion. Not only will you experience epic views of Tahoma (the Native American name for Rainier), but on a clear day you can see Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Mount Baker, and more!
It begins near the Paradise Inn and Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center. There are a number of combinations you can take to Panorama point but we recommend starting towards Myrtle Falls. This is the more gradual uphill, but also the least busy portion of the loop. We would rather return on the steeper decline with crowds. We thoroughly enjoyed the views throughout our hike – we added on Paradise Glacier – and found that the upper viewing area truly wasn’t that busy despite the number of people on the trail.
12. Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout
The Tolmie Peak Trail leads to a fire tower with in-your-face views of Mt Rainier and the turquoise lake below. The subalpine meadows that line the shores of Eunice Lake are easily damaged so please enjoy them from a distance and hike only on the constructed trails.
You’ll need to drive SR165 to Mowich Lake Road to reach the trailhead located on the Northwest side of Mowich Lake. You’ll follow the Wonderland Trail for a little over a mile before taking the Tolmie Peak Trail first to Eunice Lake and then on to the Fire Lookout. This is one of the most popular hikes in the Northwest corner of the park so be prepared to share this view with others.
13. Camp Muir
Travel to Camp Muir, the highest point you can hike to in a day without a permit. Close up views of hanging glaciers, gaping crevasses, and thundering rockfall await at the highest day-hiking point you can reach on Mount Rainier without a permit.
It should come as no surprise that Camp Muir is one of the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park. Accessed via the Skyline Trail, this hike continues up and into the alpine conditions. Hiking with gear such as micro spikes or crampons would be beneficial as the hike is mostly snow covered after Panorama Point. Definitely not for the faint of heart or inexperienced hiker!
14. Shriner Peak Lookout Trail
This lookout tower is a little further from Mount Rainier than the others giving it a bit of a unique view. Additionally, you can camp at Shriner Peak Camp with a wilderness permit and enjoy clear nighttime skies alongside incredible sunrise and sunset views!
Shriner Peak Lookout Trail begins forested and remains forested with the exception of a large, shade-less burn area until you’ve reached the summit. The ascent is steep until the ridge without much in the way of views until the summit. The parking area is small and easy to miss; it’s just a pull out along the road near the trailhead which is also easy to miss.
15. Frozen Lake and Burroughs Mountain Trail
Starting a hike in the sunrise area is a dream; the highest elevation you can reach by car in the park is home to a handful of great trails. The Sourdough Ridge Trail provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape; enjoying the views at Frozen Lake before the ascent up to First Burrough. The lake itself is just okay, but the 360-degree views throughout the hike are incredible.
This hike is perfect for families if you stop at Frozen Lake and Yakima Point viewpoint or even if you continue up to First Burrough. It becomes a bit more difficult when you continue on to Burroughs Mountain. A bit of an incline to start the hike flattens out to stunning ridge-line views. Looking out at Mount Rainier is a dream, but don’t forget to look into the valleys below! You might just see black bears, mountain goats, and other furry friends. We enjoyed watching a grazing Mountain Goat from the trail as we ate a snack and drank some water.
10 Frequently Asked Questions for Hiking in Mt Rainier National Park
Here are ten questions and answers that will help you enjoy the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park.
1. What is the most popular day hike in Mt. Rainier National Park?
The Skyline Loop Trail is arguably the most popular day hike in Mt. Rainier National Park. It offers stunning views of the mountain, wildflowers, and diverse ecosystems; it is a great spot for incredible views due to its higher elevation but it gets crowded quickly!
2. What is a good day hike for beginners in Mt. Rainier?
The Silver Falls Trail is an excellent option for beginners. It’s a relatively short and easy hike, at just under three miles and 500 feet of elevation gain, that leads to a beautiful waterfall in old growth forest.
If you’re looking for a little bit more of a challenge, take on Dege Peak from the Sunrise parking lot on the hairpin turn. This hike is only 2.8 miles long with 800 feet of elevation gain and includes incredible views of Mt. Rainier and the basin below.
3. What is the best hike for views of Mt. Rainier?
This really depends on what kind of views you’re looking for. Panorama Point via the Skyline Trail is the best place for feeling small in the shadows of Tahoma. Fremont or Tolmie Fire Lookouts are an excellent place to witness Rainier from a distance that’s close enough to make you go ‘wow’ and far enough to give you some perspective. Myrtle Falls is definitely the best view for an easy hike with incredible waterfall, meadow, and volcano views.
4. What is a good hike for wildflowers in Mt. Rainier?
Naches Loop Trail is a fantastic choice for wildflower enthusiasts. In mid to late summer, the meadows are ablaze with color that you won’t soon forget.
5. What is a good hike for people looking to avoid crowds at Mt. Rainier?
Bench and Snow Lakes trail feature two alpine lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers, and views of Mount Rainier without the crowds of some more popular trails. It’s a 2.5-mile out and back with about 700 feet of elevation gain round trip; it has a lot of up and down which some say makes it more difficult than you would think.
6. What is the best time of year to hike in Mt. Rainier?
The best time to hike in Mt. Rainier is during the summer months (July and August) when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. In July you’ll still be experiencing some snow on the trails, but by late August all but high elevation trains should be snow-free.
7. What should I bring on a day hike in Mt. Rainier?
When hiking in Mount Rainier, it’s essential to pack the following:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Layers of clothing
- Warm hat and gloves
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- First-aid kit
- Map and compass (or GPS device)
8. What wildlife can I encounter on the trails?
Mount Rainier National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, deer, and marmots. To minimize encounters and stay safe, follow these tips:
- Store food properly in bear-resistant containers.
- Hike in groups.
- Make noise to alert wildlife of your presence.
- Carry bear spray.
9. Are there any restrictions on dogs in the park?
Dogs are not allowed on trails in Mount Rainier National Park. However, they are permitted in designated areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, as long as they are leashed.
10. What are some tips for hiking safely in Mount Rainier National Park?
To stay safe while hiking in Mount Rainier, follow these tips:
- Start early in the morning.
- Let someone know your plans.
- Be aware of weather conditions.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Pack out what you pack in.
- Understand how to use the restroom in the wild.
- Carry a first aid kit.
- Respect wildlife.
Conclusion
There are seemingly endless amazing hikes to choose form when visiting Mount Rainier. All of the best day hikes in Mt Rainier National Park include views of Tahoma, the surrounding mountain ranges, and/or incredible old growth forest.
The best day hikes in Mt Rainier National Park stole my heart and raised this park into my top 5 National Park’s visited of all time. With epic views throughout the entire park, there isn’t a trail here that wouldn’t make for a great hike. Start planning your Mount Rainier adventure and be sure to include some of the hikes from this list!