Burroughs Mountain — Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River

When I first heard of this hike, I couldn't wait to go! I'm so glad I did, it's a great hike! A friend and I arrived at the Sunrise parking lot a little after 9am. There were only a handful of cars, but I know Sunrise gets really busy. The meadows along Sunrise Park are filled with purple wildflowers---it is so picturesque! We took the trail towards Sourdough Ridge and followed it to Frozen Lake, which still had some snow on the north side of the lake. There are so many different trails to go once you arrive at the junction. We hiked to First Burroughs and then on to Second Burroughs. We took in the sights of Mt. Rainier at Second Burroughs while having lunch---the Mountain was in full view! There were some busy little chipmunks running around scavenging for food. They are NOT shy and will rummage through your things if left unattended. They were very cute to watch though. I really wanted to continue onto Third Burroughs but did not know how much farther that hike was. Heading back towards First Burroughs, we decided to do the loop back to the Sunrise parking lot. This part of the hike is out in the open---there are no trees for shade---so make sure you have plenty of water. Also, sunscreen and bug spray---I was lathered in both---are a must! This hike is quite dusty too. Shadow Lake was a nice relaxing little break. Again, lots of wildflowers here. Past the lake is a nice lookout area, called Glacier Overlook. The remainder of the hike from here, you walk are walking through a forest area so the shade was a nice welcome. Once down by Sunrise Camp, the meadows are just overflowing with colorful wildflowers. It is so beautiful. There was plenty of animal activity today. Besides the chipmunks atop Second Burroughs, we also saw a marmot (on the trail to First Burroughs) and some mountain goats foraging as we made our way down the loop. By the time we made it back to the parking lot, it was now about 4pm, the parking lot was full! Make sure you arrive early to get a parking spot. I would love to do this hike again and also check out some of the other trails.