Outbound Collective logo

Hike Sunrise Trails at Mount Rainier

Ashford, Washington

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

6 miles

Elevation Gain

1200 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Whitney James

Spectacular views from any trail you choose to hike. Plethora of wildflowers in summer months, time depending on snow melt. Options to create challenging, long hikes or to keep it easy.

I grew up in Washington, but didn't get out to Mount Rainier until I came home for a visit years later. We took advantage of the nonexistent snowpack and headed up in mid-June, which is normally a terrible time to visit (think late summer). There are two main areas in the park, Sunrise and Paradise. Sunrise is less busy and less popular, so we started there.

For a mid-level day hike, head for Sourdough Ridge from the Sunrise parking lot. Stay left and go past Frozen Lake, staying on the trail that points directly at Mount Rainier towards Burroughs Mountains. You can stop at the stone bench on the top of the first at 7,000 feet, or continue on to the second at 7,400. Keep an eye out for mountain goats (those are the white ones, the sheep are brown and less exciting). Arriving on the top of the first Burroughs Mountain, you feel like you've basically made it to the foot of the glaciers.

Come down towards Glacier Overlook where you can see the White River below, and continue to pretty Shadow Lake and back to the trailhead. This side of the trail is riddled with wildflowers and an absolute must-see!

For detailed map of the hikes in the Sunrise area, check out the Nps.gov website.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Scenic
Wildflowers

Hike Sunrise Trails at Mount Rainier Reviews

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mt. Fremont Fire Lookout Trail

Hike Dege Peak in Mount Rainier National Park

See the Milky Way over Mt. Rainier

Burroughs Mountain Trail

Camp at White River in Mount Rainier NP

Summit Mount Ruth, Mt. Rainier NP