Did a loop of Sunrise -> Sourdough Ridge Trail -> 1st & 2nd Burroughs -> Sunrise Rim Trail* -> Wonderland Trail. Total distance was about 6mi.
Note: There's no WTA entry for SRT, and it isn't even called that on the Mt. Rainier map (see link below). But that's what the trail signs said. On the map, it's the trail from 1st Burroughs back to Sunrise Camp.
Trail conditions: With the exception of parts of the Sunrise Rim Trail, I’d say these trails are all in perfect condition, which is amazing when you consider the number of people using them. For SRT, there are a few spots along the rock wall that are maybe a little dicey (rocks have fallen down on the path, which force you to go closer to the edge of the path where there's a very steep drop). But that's just in a couple of spots right now.
The majority of this route has no shade, so keep that in mind if it's hot outside. There's only a brief bit after the glacier overlook & before the Wonderland Trail.
Fairly short hike up to 1st Burroughs. The route looks pretty steep from a distance, but it didn't really seem that bad. Quite a bit of room for lunch @ 1st Burroughs, but more space and a MUCH better view at 2nd Burroughs.
Tread lightly up @ 2nd Burroughs. There's no clear trail marked on the top, so don't just trample on the plants growing up there.
People: It was a fairly constant stream from the parking lot all the way to 2nd Burroughs. It was Labor Day weekend, but I was still surprised by the number of people that ventured that far. But I was surprised on the way down when I found myself practically alone.
Parking: Got there around 10am on Sunday. There were maybe 15 other cars in front of me, which I thought was actually pretty short. By the time I got up to Sunrise, I saw that the lot was already almost full & people were starting to park along the road. Though I ended up driving further into the lot & found several spots much closer :)
#ProTip Looked like there were a lot of new hikers on the trail. Welcome! You will be MUCH more comfortable hiking in something other than blue jeans.
Comments