Carbonado, Washington

Possibly one of the greatest loop hikes in the Lower 48, this trail sees a lot of use. You won't be alone out there, but opportunities for solitude are abundant with a little effort. The crowds show up for good reason - it's incredibly beautiful, relatively wild, and about as close to feeling l...

This scenic destination begins at the Paradise parking lot. Head north from the parking area towards Myrtle falls. Make sure to stay left of the Paradise in and cross Edith creek over a footbridge near Myrtle falls. From here, head east towards Mazama ridge by crossing through upper Paradise Vall...

Arrive at Longmire in Mount Rainier National park about 9a.m. They open the gate during the late season at this time so you will want to get ahead of the crowd, especially if it is a beautiful day! This time of year it is required to carry chains, so don't forget those. Arrive at Paradise parking...

Starting at the Longmire Trailhead, cross the road and begin snowshoeing counter-clockwise on the Trail of Shadows.  This first 0.5 miles begins the hike as a nice warm up where you can make sure your snowshoes are adjusted properly and stop from time to time to learn some facts from the interpre...

Named after the Native American who lived here prior to Mt. Rainier becoming a national park, So-To-Lick's was dubbed "Indian Henry" by the postman who unfortunately did not learn his name. When heading out on this hike, keep an eye on the weather in Mt. Rainier National Park. If hiking this trai...

Start this route at the Narada Falls Parking lot. This route starts by following Stevens Canyon Road until you arrive at Reflection Lakes after 1.5 miles. About halfway along the lakeshore a path breaks off to the right into the forest. This is a popular route so there is often a snowshoe path be...

Enter Mount Rainier National Park via the Nisqually Entrance outside of Ashford. Drive past Longmire and continue heading up towards Paradise. Parking for this trip can be found at Narada Falls. From the Narada Falls parking lot you will head up to the closed for the winter portion of Stevens Ca...

The Lakes Trail Loop can be accessed two ways. You can either start in Paradise and find one of the multiple points along the Skyline Trail or you can begin at Reflection Lake. My recommendation for a nice day hike is to begin at Reflection Lake. If you arrive by 8am you should have an easy time...

Reflection Lakes is located approximately 1 mile east of Inspiration Point just off Steven Canyons Road in the Paradise section of Mount Rainier National Park.  Simply park in one of the pullouts at the lakes and enjoy the scenery.  Reflection Lakes can also be accessed via the Wonderland Trail.T...

This trailhead is easily accessed at the parking lot at Reflection Lakes in Mount Rainier National Park. A short but sweet hike (1.3 miles one way) that leads to beautiful views of Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and if clear enough, Mt. Hood (Oregon). Pinnacle itself can be climbed to su...

Snow Lake is a beautiful lake in Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. You can do the 2.6 mile roundtrip hike to the lake as either a day trip or as a backcountry camp. To camp at one of the two sites on the lake you must secure a permit from the permit office at Longmire. The hike to the s...

Following along the Greenwater River, family friendly Greenwater lakes Trail #1176 which has minimal elevation gain, winds through a lush green mossy old growth forest.  Along the trail you will cross over several log bridges and pass a couple of beautiful waterfalls.  At just under two miles int...

From Greenwater heading south: Pass the fire station to FR 70 on the left. Follow FR 70 for about nine miles to FR 7033. Take a right and follow the road to the trailhead. Northwest Forest Pass required. The trail is in good shape and mostly flat to Greenwater Lakes which is great for families a...

After a rough drive to the trailhead you’ll have little time to catch your breath as the trail laces up the mountain side, but with Rainier to distract you, it won’t be long until you’re at the top with a view that is more than enough reward for your efforts. Pay very close attention to the drivi...

Point Defiance Park is the largest urban park in Pierce County and it provides a variety of amenities. Located at the very northwest tip of Tacoma, the park provides residents with a much needed retreat from the bustle of everyday life. Point Defiance Park is the place to go if you need a quick d...

Being only a 10 minute drive off the 90, this Lake is often overlooked by the popular Rattlesnake Ledge hike right above. Take exit 32 from the 90E onto 436th SE Ave and continue onto Cedar Falls Rd SE and continue for about 3 miles. At this point, a parking lot will be on your right that is both...