Shadow Lake - Sunrise Camp Loop — Sunday, Jun. 7, 2015

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River

Sunrise is open a month early so we took advantage of it. We arrived about noon and there was plenty of parking. It was very warm, even at this elevation and the views were incredible on every section of this pretty loop. The hike begins on an old road - when you reach the first fork it's not marked but be sure to take the left/lower fork. The upper road is a service road and is marked after you hike up it about 1/4 mile. Phlox, glacier lily, pasqueflower and several other wildflowers are blooming, the meadows are gorgeous. Shadow Lake is small and clear, there are several spots of snow but only one that actually covers the trail and is easy to navigate. The last section is a 1/2 mile steady grade (heading counter clockwise) but there are spots to stop in the shade if you need to. An easy, short, beautiful hike to stretch your legs.