Remember, always pack an extra jacket, comfortable hiking boots, snacks, and more water than you think; the weather is always unpredictable within this national park.
Check out my Hiking Checklist here
The hikes listed below require you to enter Mount Rainier National Park, which costs $30 per vehicle, or America the Beautiful Pass. To learn more about each pass available in Washington, click here.
MYRTLE FALLS
Distance: 1 mile
Located near Paradise, this hike is short and easy, with a large waterfall at the end. The trail is paved most of the way, but it does get quite steep, so be sure to wear proper footwear. If you're lucky enough to go on a clear day, you get a spectacular view of Mount Rainier overlooking the falls.
Before you go, be sure to check the road conditions, some roads to Paradise are closed in early fall and late spring due to snow.
BENCH AND SNOW LAKES TRAIL
Distance: 2.5 miles
This moderate trail is 2.5-miles round trip, although you could make it shorter by turning around after .75-mile at Bench Lake. I recommend you continue a 1/2 mile further to find Snow Lake with stunning alpine lake views, wildflower meadows in the summer, and if it's clear, you'll get glimpses of Mount Rainier.
This trail is great for the whole family or beginner hikers. The best time to visit this trail is July through September. Be sure to bring bug spray - this trail can be full of mosquitoes but don't let it deter you; the views were worth the bugs.
COMET FALLS TRAIL
Distance: 3.8 miles
Throughout this hike, you'll walk along Van Trump Creek with small waterfalls and overlooks until you reach the 320-foot-high Comet Falls.
On average, this hike takes about 2.5 hours to complete, and the best time to visit this trail is between July through October; the road leading to the trailhead can be dangerous in the winter, having 4WD or AWD is best. This is a very busy trail so be sure to leave early to get a spot in the parking lot.
FREMONT LOOKOUT TRAIL
Distance: 5.6 miles
This is a must-do hike in Washington with stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Cascades, but make sure you go on a clear day to enjoy the endless views of the mountains.
It takes about 3 hours to hike, with the best time to visit this trail is between June and October. Be sure to keep an eye out for plenty of wildlife such as deer, mountain goats, and marmots. If you're up for it, head out early so you can get to the lookout for the sunrise over Mount Rainier, the views are incredible.
BURROUGHS MOUNTAIN TRAIL
Distance: 9 miles
If you're up for a difficult hike, I recommend this one; you'll get close to the northeastern face of Mount Rainier with views of Winthrop Glacier. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, small pikas, and black bears.
It takes about 5 hours to complete, with the best time to visit between May through October. Along the way, you will have a sandy and rocky trail while passing Frozen Lake and Shadow Lake.
Laura
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