Visiting Mount Rainier National Park Burroughs Mountain Hike Sunrise

9 Best Hikes at Mount Rainier National Park

Epic Views. Up close and personal to a volcano. That’s Mount Rainier National Park for you! The epic Washington National Park offers hikers and visitors some of the most magical views you can find in Washington without the foot-numbing hiking needed in other parts of the state.

Let’s dive into the best hikes at Mount Rainier National Park.

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1. Burroughs Mountain

Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

If you’re looking to get close to Mt. Rainier from the Sunrise Visitor Center side, this is your hike. While most people head to Fremont Lookout, few head to Burroughs, which means you’ll have it relatively to yourself.

If you want a longer trek, visit the Second or Third Burroughs for incredible views! Overall, it’s one of the best hikes at Mount Rainier.

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2. Skyline Loop Trail

skyline trail loop mt rainier national park
Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

It’s probably the most popular hike on the Paradise Visitor Center side. It’s a six-mile trail that takes you through stunning wildflowers and lush forests, and then onto the rocky Mt. Rainier side. It’s no wonder it’s so popular!

3. Fremont Peak Lookout

Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

One of the best places for sunset in Mount Rainier National Park. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Baker and the Canadian border. It’s usually crowded on the weekends, but it’s incredibly worth it and one of the best hikes at Mount Rainier!

Related: Whale Watching Around Seattle

4. High Rock Lookout

High Rock Lookout Trail Washington
Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

This is just outside the park’s southern entrance, so you’re not technically in the national park. Still, it’s gorgeous and may have the best bang for your buck views of all the hikes.

Related: Waterfalls near Seattle

5. Naches Peak Loop

Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

This moderate loop is unbelievably beautiful in August during prime wildflower season. The array of colors and views will blow you away!

Hiking Gear for Mt. Rainier National Park

6. Dege Peak

Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

A short yet steep hike offers phenomenal views of Rainier and 360-degree views of Central Washington. It’s perfect for sunset and watching the stars come out.

Related: Easy Hikes Around Seattle

7. Tolmie Peak Lookout

Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

Tolmie Peak Lookout is easily one of the best hikes at Mount Rainier, thanks to its stunning views and relatively doable trail. While it roller coasters with a decent ascent at the end, most hikers shouldn’t have trouble with it.

8. Camp Muir

Camp Muir Rainier Basecamp Washington Hike
Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

Welcome to Mt. Rainier Basecamp. Camp Muir is a heckuva hike, measuring 9 miles and 4,600 feet of gain, with most of it on a snowfield. But if you’re looking for a challenge and incredible views at the top, this is your destination.

9. Spray Park

Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

Spray Park is a mesmerizing hiking location that gets far fewer visitors than you’d expect. It’s a long hike (8-12 miles round trip, depending on your turnaround spot) but has stellar wildflowers and Mt. Rainer views. Also, keep your eyes peeled for bears, as they love this area.

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Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

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Photo Credit: Alec Sills-Trausch/@Alecoutside

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