Fun hike with the little one on a mostly sunny day at Mount Rainier National Park!

The parking lot was full when we arrived mid afternoon. It was a busy day all over at MRNP; the lots at Longmire, Paradise, and several other trailheads in the park had been busy. We snagged a spot as someone else was leaving though, and started off down the trail into this glorious green wonderland.

For the most part, the trail didn't seem too crowded at all. The suspension bridge was a choke point: people had queued up on both sides and were alternating going across one, two, or three at a time. There is a sign posted that it is 'recommended' to go one person at a time-- this is a steel cable suspension bridge; pretty sure it could handle the weight of a lot more than that! Still, it was perfect weather to hang out in the shade by the river, so no worries about waiting a bit :-) 

The trail and boardwalk are in excellent condition, and even though there were some bugs out they didn't seem to be much of a bother. The old growth trees and crystal clear water along this trail are amazing; no wonder it's so popular! My 1 year old really enjoyed himself. What a great day in the park!

Nice way to whet our hiking appetites on the first day in MRNP. Weather alternated between sun, clouds and rainy drizzle. Parking lot at the trailhead was full. The trail leads to a grove of massive trees. Under the canopy, it is cool and quiet, even with other hikers sharing the trail. Suspension bridge spanning the Ohanapecosh River is an interesting feature. Would recommend this short and easy hike to all visitors to the park.

We coupled this hike with Silver Falls Loop and it was just right for 3 kids (12, 10, 7). The suspension bridge is super awesome.

I started this hike at Ohanapecosh campground, but you can start at the Grove of Patriarchs trailhead right after the south-east entrance to Mount Rainier NP.
There were quite a few cars parked at the trailhead, but because it was on Monday, I imagine it can get crazy busy during summer holiday or weekends! So make sure to get there early, or be prepared to fight the crowds.
There is restroom and water fountain at the trailhead.
The hike itself is nice and in good condition. There are no obstacles on the trail, other than a few fallen trees across the trail that might be annoying for tall people because they would have to bend. But it adds a character to the trailhead. There are interpretative signs about the trees and vegetation along the trail, so if you have time these will be a great source of information.
Once you come to the suspension make sure to pay attention to the sign that says one person on a bridge at a time.
It is not crazy high up or scary, but it does swing and some people might be not too thrilled about crossing.
After you cross the bridge there is a little beach right by the creek. I saw people throwing rocks, taking pictures, lounging or dipping their feet here. I do not know what the rules are about swimming, but you bet the water is seriously cold!
After you are done inhaling all the beauty of the creek, continue little further on a trail that now becomes a loop. And this is the Grove of Patriarchs. I had no idea what was in store for me, so I was pleasantly surprised. The trees are huge! And so many of them grouped in this area. There are benches to sit on, and parts of the trail are boardwalk, so it is a really nice stroll through this part of the old grown forest.
Take pictures and relax, but please, do not climb on the trees! Seriously, people! What is wrong with you? The guardrail and boardwalk is there for a reason, this is not your backyard.
Note that the suspension bridge might get backed up on busy days, so if possible, cross quickly so others behind you don't have to wait until midnight.
Enjoy! I will be definitely coming back if I ever find myself in the area because this trail is truly magical and serene.

Submitted via http://www.trektidings.com/

This is a nice and easy hike. It's just barely past the entrance to Rainier if you're coming from the south. It has great variety for a short and easy hike - you get to walk through the forest for a little bit, cross a bridge over the river, and then walk among the old growth. It's shaded much of the way, so it was nice and cool on a warm day.