Trails for everyone, forever

Home Go Outside Hiking Guide

Hiking Guide

WTA's hiking guide is the most comprehensive database of hikes in Washington, and comprises content written by local hiking experts and user submitted information. All data is vetted by WTA staff. This resource is made possible by the donations of WTA members.

We respectfully acknowledge the lands we are visiting are the homelands of Indigenous tribes of the Pacific Northwest, some of whom have reserved rights on these lands. Tribes continue to rely on and share in the management of these lands today. Please tread gently and treat these places with respect.

Results List

38 Hikes

Myrtle Falls

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
0.8 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
185 feet
Highest Point
5,600 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.50
(6 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Waterfalls
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Good for kids
A good, short destination just outside of the main Paradise visitors area, Myrtle Falls is a beauty.
 
 

Narada Falls to Reflection Lakes

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
5.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,150 feet
Highest Point
5,400 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.56
(16 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Waterfalls
  • Old growth
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
  • Rivers
Hiking the trail between the Narada Falls viewpoint and Reflection Lakes is pleasant enough. But you can extend the route into a loop featuring an unobstructed view of the Tatoosh Range from a rocky bluff, and an up-close experience of the awe-inspiring whitewater cascades of the Paradise River.
 
 

Pinnacle Saddle

Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
 
Length
2.5 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,000 feet
Highest Point
5,920 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.40
(20 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Ridges/passes
Imagine that you are looking through a telephoto lens at one of those iconic images of Mount Rainier taken from the south. Now zoom out to a wider view of the entire mountain, the thick forests below timberline, the enormous brown gash of the Nisqually River Valley, and beside it the verdant parkland that became known as Paradise. This is the view from the Pinnacle Saddle trail.
 
 

Naches Peak Loop

Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
 
Length
3.2 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
600 feet
Highest Point
5,850 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.51
(73 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
  • Fall foliage
This popular hike provides a range of alpine experiences in a short loop. Walk along a hillside above a small valley, pause at a viewpoint overlooking a lake, and stroll through grassy meadows with stunning views of Mount Rainier. In season enjoy an abundance of wildflowers or perhaps a handful of huckleberries.
 
 

Bench and Snow Lakes

Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
 
Length
2.5 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
610 feet
Highest Point
4,725 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.21
(24 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Lakes
  • Established campsites
Escape the crowds within Mount Rainier National Park without going on a lengthy adventure. Visit one or both of two alpine lakes, the second one just a bit more than a mile from the parking lot.
 
 

Moraine Trail

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
2.2 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
400 feet
Highest Point
5,850 feet
Rating
Average rating:
5.00
(2 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Rivers
  • Ridges/passes
Sometimes the crowds at Mount Rainier’s Paradise can be overwhelming. Hike the Moraine Trail to get off of asphalt paths and away from the throngs. The reward is a view down into the immense Nisqually River Valley from the very edge of its moraine.
 
 

Nisqually Vista Loop

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
1.1 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
200 feet
Highest Point
5,400 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.82
(11 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Good for kids
Follow the trails here to views of Mount Rainier's rocky Nisqually River valley and the much-receded Nisqually Glacier.
 
 

Golden Gate Loop

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
4.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,160 feet
Highest Point
6,400 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.50
(4 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Ridges/passes
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Waterfalls
  • Rivers
Follow a loop trail that samples what Mount Rainier has to offer: a popular waterfall, vast expanses of wildflowers, numerous snowmelt streams, a historic monument to the mountain’s first climbers, and of course views of Mount Rainier itself.
 
 

High Lakes Loop

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
3.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
600 feet
Highest Point
5,425 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.70
(10 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Ridges/passes
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
  • Fall foliage
Reflection Lakes are not just a popular photography stop. From the lakes you can hike to a stunning cliffside view of the lakes and the Tatoosh range. From there you have the option of returning the way you came, or hiking in a loop around the largest of the lakes.
 
 

Glacier Vista - Panorama Point

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
5.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,300 feet
Highest Point
6,700 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.25
(12 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Dogs not allowed
Paradise is one of the most gorgeous (and, as a result, popular) parts of Washington. This short but steep trail offers tourists and locals alike one of the most stunning views for the least number of miles in Washington state, but that doesn't mean you won't sweat! Be prepared to climb more than 1000 feet in less than a mile at the outset of this trail .
 
 

Carter Falls

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
2.8 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
660 feet
Highest Point
3,650 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.83
(18 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Waterfalls
  • Old growth
  • Good for kids
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Rivers
Cougar Rock to Carter Falls is a moderate and readily accessible segment of the Wonderland Trail that packs stunning mountain vistas, river views, waterfalls, wildflowers, old growth, and edible berries into just 1.3 miles of family-friendly hiking in Mount Rainier National Park.
 
 

Silver Forest - Emmons Vista

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River
 
Length
2.5 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
325 feet
Highest Point
6,400 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.86
(7 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Good for kids
The Silver Forest Trail is a lesser-known and therefore less-crowded alternative at Mount Rainier’s Sunrise. Enjoy mountain, glacier and river valley views along a gentle trail that is mostly out of sight of the bustle of Sunrise.
 
 

Mud Mountain Dam - Rim Trail

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
4.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
80 feet
Highest Point
1,300 feet
Rating
Average rating:
2.67
(9 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Good for kids
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Fall foliage
  • Rivers
Located on the White River near Mount Rainier, the Mud Mountain Dam is both a flood control dam operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and a recreation facility. This gentle 2-mile trail will take you along the White River.
 
 

Golden Gate

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
3.2 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,000 feet
Highest Point
6,400 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.14
(7 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Waterfalls
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Fall foliage
The Golden Gate trail provides a quick route to amazing panoramas of Mount Rainier and the craggy peaks of the Tatoosh Range. Pass through wildflower-studded alpine meadows, a clear sparkling stream, and up a steep, well-maintained trail. You can even make it a loop, if you want to explore the lush parkland at the foot of Washington's tallest mountain.
 
 

Noble Knob

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
5.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
950 feet
Highest Point
6,011 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.22
(36 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Good for kids
This hike up to a former lookout site provides spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape.
 
 

Edgar Rock

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
3.5 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
900 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.42
(12 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Old growth
  • Good for kids
  • Wildlife
  • Rivers
Rock spires across the Naches River from Highway 410 catch the eye of travelers from the roadway. For a closer look, consider a hike to the top of Edgar Rock by way of the Lost Creek Trail. This route proves popular early in the season as well as late in the year. The hike is not very long and features good views at the top.
 
 

Dalles Ridge

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
1.8 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
200 feet
Highest Point
5,700 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.00
(6 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Summits
Dalles Ridge is the primary way that hikers access the popular Noble Knob Trail and Ranger Creek. It provides hikers with a beautiful ridge walk after a steady climb from the trailhead.
 
 

Mount Beljica

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
3.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,056 feet
Highest Point
5,469 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.36
(11 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Summits
  • Lakes

Trailhead Inaccessible by vehicle: Forest Road 59 is washed out

Mount Beljica is just outside the boundary of Mount Rainier National Park, so you can bring your dog and still experience a well-kept trail leading to astounding views of Washington's tallest mountain.
 
 

Knapsack Pass

Mount Rainier Area > NW - Carbon River/Mowich
 
Length
2.9 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,300 feet
Highest Point
6,200 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.17
(6 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Ridges/passes
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Lakes
  • Fall foliage

Mowich Lake Road is closed for the season

Knapsack Pass follows a no-longer-maintained hiking trail. It now requires GPS or map and compass skills to reach the pass, located near Mother Mountain.
 
 

Glacier View

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
4.4 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
950 feet
Highest Point
5,450 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.10
(21 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Ridges/passes
  • Wildlife
  • Mountain views
  • Old growth
  • Summits
  • Good for kids
  • Dogs allowed on leash

Trailhead Inaccessible by vehicle: Forest Road 59 is washed out

Climb a ridge to a rocky promontory nine miles due west of Tahoma’s summit and experience multi-volcano, jaw-dropping views under clear conditions. Glacier View’s short but moderately intense route is ideal for lovers of huckleberries, wildflowers, old growth forest, mushrooms, fauna, and lakes.
 
 

Fairfax Ghost Town

Mount Rainier Area > NW - Carbon River/Mowich
 
Length
2.35 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
104 feet
Highest Point
1,446 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.00
(3 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Wildlife
  • Good for kids
  • Fall foliage
  • Rivers

Mowich Lake Road is closed for the season

Once a booming coal town, Fairfax Ghost Town is an adventure of exploration and discovery. Expect thick vegetation and undefined trails once you arrive at the town site, so pack a good sense of direction, plenty of time and a thirst for exploration is highly recommended.
 
 

Shadow Lake - Sunrise Camp Loop

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River
 
Length
3.7 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
200 feet
Highest Point
6,386 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.36
(14 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Established campsites
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
This sweet little loop leaves from the Sunrise Visitor Center at Mount Rainier and encompasses a lovely little lake, an unexpected campsite, and views of the mountain's eastern flanks and glaciers.
 
 

Deadwood Lakes

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
2.2 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
470 feet
Highest Point
5,600 feet
Rating
Average rating:
0.00
(0 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Lakes
This un-maintained trail can be accessed from the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail can be difficult to follow, so be sure to take appropriate precautions.
 
 

Twin Sisters Lakes

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
4.4 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
900 feet
Highest Point
5,200 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.62
(13 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Established campsites
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
  • Fall foliage
A long dirt road provides access to the central trailhead for the William O. Douglas Wilderness Area. The popular, easy forest hike to the Twin Sisters Lakes is a prelude to miles of exploration possible on trails and cross-country through open forest, past meadows, ponds, and lakes.
 
 

Soda Springs

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
4.9 miles, one-way
Elevation Gain
2,780 feet
Highest Point
5,880 feet
Rating
Average rating:
0.00
(0 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Established campsites
  • Rivers
This moderately difficult trail accesses the William O. Douglas wilderness area. Passing through dense timber near Flat Iron Lake, the way also hosts good campsites for visitors
 
 

Banshee Peak

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River
 
Highest Point
7,400 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.00
(2 votes)
  • Ridges/passes
  • Wildlife
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Summits
  • Lakes
  • Rivers
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Established campsites
  • Waterfalls
  • Old growth
Banshee Peak is an off-trail summit that requires advanced mountaineering skill to reach. It lies east of Mount Rainier.
 
 

Rampart Ridge Loop

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise
 
Length
4.5 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,300 feet
Highest Point
4,080 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.12
(24 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Ridges/passes
  • Old growth
  • Good for kids
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Rivers
This short loop out of Longmire makes for a great, quick way to get some elevation gain, some forest views, and a fantastic vista of Mount Rainier, all in less than five miles!
 
 

Kelly Butte

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
3.4 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,100 feet
Highest Point
5,409 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.05
(22 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Mountain views
  • Wildlife
  • Summits
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Fall foliage
This is a nice, short hike to a recently repaired fire lookout. Guidebooks do not include recent upgrades to the trail and road to the trailhead. The trail is no longer only accessible via a scramble, but trail that switchbacks through wildflowers and interesting rock walls which was constructed in 2007. The lookout itself has been repaired, making it a nice lunch stop.
 
 

Sheep Lake

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
 
Length
3.6 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
400 feet
Highest Point
5,750 feet
Rating
Average rating:
3.93
(28 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Ridges/passes
  • Wildlife
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs allowed on leash
  • Waterfalls
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
Sheep Lake is a picturesque alpine lake guarded by jagged-edged ridges. It makes a good destination for children, especially if you let them swim, play in the meadows, or explore the small rock outcroppings. Sheep Lake is also a worthy destination for adults who want a pause from daily life to enjoy the outdoors. The campsites around the perimeter are ideal for base camping or for backpacking with children.
 
 

Forest Lake

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River
 
Length
4.4 miles, roundtrip
Elevation Gain
1,250 feet
Highest Point
6,920 feet
Rating
Average rating:
4.00
(4 votes)
  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Ridges/passes
  • Wildlife
  • Established campsites
  • Mountain views
  • Dogs not allowed
  • Good for kids
  • Lakes
Forest lake is a small lake in the Sunrise area of Mount Rainier.