The Grove of the Patriarchs trail delivers high rewards for little effort. The trail is relatively short and smooth with big trees, a crystal clear river, a neat suspension bridge, and lots of signs with info about the forest. A great trail for all ages.  I did this on the way home after hiking to Camp Muir and it was perfect for walking in bare feet and rinsing the dust and sweat off in the river. There were a lot of folks hiking it on a Sunday afternoon so don't expect to be alone.

<3 Rainier!!

Trailhead was busy this early Tuesday afternoon. Lots of people using the picnic tables and facilities, as well as heading onto the trail. Trail is in great shape, as were the suspension bridge and boardwalk. The ancient forest is an absolute treasure, and peppered with interpretive signs with information on the variety of massive trees present along the trail. There is also plenty of river access - perfect for dipping your feet on a hot day like today! 

After hiking up at Paradise I decided to take the long way home. Crowded at Paradise at 1:00 but only in the parking lot. The roads were pleasantly quiet. 

Grove of the Patriarchs is a great way to wrap up a day in the park. Nice little trail along the river. I usually don’t recommend hiking in sandals but it’s not a bad idea here. There are a couple of spots where you can access the river to cool off your feet and wash off the days’ sweat and sunscreen. 

There was a little traffic jam at the suspension bridge because everyone was respecting the sign that recommends one hiker cross at a time. Kind of awesome. 

The boardwalk loop is in great shape and the Patriarchs are impressive. 

I saw lots of grandmas and grandpas on this trail. Toddlers hiking too.