Tolmie Peak's Fire Lookout
Ashford, Washington
Details
Distance
5.73 miles
Elevation Gain
1250 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Mitch Pittman
Tolmie Peak's Fire Lookout offers wide open views of Mount Rainier and a chance to hang out at scenic a fire lookout. You'll pass by two alpine lakes en route for an easy day trip.
Mount Rainier is spectacular to look at, but sometimes the best views aren't from on its slopes, but just a little ways away. Tucked in the seldom-visited northwest corner of Mount Rainier National Park, the Tolmie Peak fire lookout frames the mountain's rugged slopes with a pristine alpine lake and rocky peaks.
Start from the west side of deep-blue Mowich Lake, the largest in the park, and hike 1.5 miles to Ipsut Pass. Poke your head around for a view of the valley, but head left at the trail junction toward Eunice Lake.
You'll lose some elevation before heading up some easy switchbacks, and before you know it you're at the shore of Eunice Lake. If you look up, straight up, you'll see your final destination!
If it's warm enough, this is a great place to take a dip. Or, if it's huckleberry season, grab some handfuls to munch on as you tackle the last bit of the hike. It's short, but steep, so rip the Band-Aid off and get those views!
The lookout isn't open to the public, but still climb up and take a look inside. If you need it, there's a wilderness toilet a little ways down the north side of Tolmie Peak below the lookout.
If you're feeling adventurous, scramble out the narrow ridge to Tolmie's true summit. Be on the lookout for mountain goats, marmots, and pikas in the valleys below.
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Tolmie Peak's Fire Lookout Reviews
You feel so close to Mt. Rainier on this hike, and the Bear Grass explodes in mid July for a very diverse trail. Make sure to walk along the ridge line past the lookout tower for even more views. On a clear day you'll see Mt. Baker as well as Mt. St. Helens in the distance.
5.0
Although it's not as wild and wilderness as I had hoped it was still an incredible hike. It's a clear and well maintained trail that offers up some amazing views. I would get a start early because parking fills up quick and although there isn't a crowd going up it does get crowded once you get to the look out. So very worth the trip and you meet the nicest people along the way.
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Mowich Lake
Hike to Spray Park
Hike to Eunice Lake in Mt. Rainier NP
Hike to Rainier NP's Ranger Falls
Summit Lake
Hike Bearhead Mountain
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