The Best Trails at Mount Rainier
Founded in 1899, Mount Rainier National Park has provided a paradise-like experience to seasoned hikers, amateur explorers, and everyone in between for 126 years. Mount Rainier features over 170 hiking trails, nearly two dozen waterfalls, many old-growth forests, and more than 280 species of wildlife.
Whether you live in Tacoma and are visiting for a day-trip or are an experienced hiker seeking new trails, Mount Rainier’s extensive day hikes can satisfy your exploring desires. Find out below for our top hiking trail picks in Mount Rainier National Park, along with other activities you can enjoy!
What To Do in Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park offers a variety of activities that are fun for the whole family or perfect for individual explorers. You can reconnect with nature in many ways, from being surrounded by stunning wildflowers to experiencing the majesty of a towering mountain peak. Here are some activities we recommend when you visit Mount Rainier:
- Hiking or climbing
- Camping
- Visiting Reflection Lakes and the Grove of the Patriarchs
- Horseback riding
- Viewing wildlife at the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
- Fishing and boating
- Walking the Wildflower Nature Trails at Paradise
- Stargazing
- Riding the Mount Rainier Scenic Mountain Railroad
- Cycling the park roads for scenic views
- Participating in a ranger-led program
Five Popular Mount Rainier Hiking Trails
1. Skyline Loop
Located on the southern side of the national park, starting in Paradise, WA, Skyline Loop is one of the most popular hiking trails at Mount Rainier. Although it is the most well-known, it is considered a moderate-level hike, covering 5.6 miles with a 1,778-foot elevation gain, making it a trail that’s ideal for experienced hikers.
Along the Skyline Loop Trail, hike through lush vegetation, including massive, leafy ferns and towering trees. You’ll pass rivers, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers. Among the towering coniferous and deciduous trees, watch for wildlife foraging, like the Douglas squirrel with olive-brown fur and orangey bellies, or see if you can spot a mountain goat scaling the side of the mountain.
2. Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via the Skyline Trail
Myrtle Falls Viewpoint can be reached from the Paradise parking area via the Skyline Trail or Golden Gate Trail. This moderate-level, one-mile trail involves a 167-foot elevation gain and typically takes about 27 minutes to complete.
The paved out-and-back path begins with an uphill section before ascending stairs to the viewpoint overlooking a 60-foot waterfall. Try spotting wildlife from afar, including elk, coyotes, mountain beavers, and foxes, as you gaze over the viewpoint.
3. Carter and Madcap Falls via Wonderland Trail
Traverse rocky terrains and forests as you walk along the Paradise River, spotting interesting mushrooms, fungi, and even two waterfalls along the way. The Carter and Madcap Falls via Wonderland Trail has a 534-foot elevation gain and usually takes about an hour and 17 minutes to complete round-trip.
First on your trek, you’ll encounter Carter Falls, followed by Madcap Falls not far after. Be cautious of steep climbs and rocky sections throughout the trail, and it’s recommended to start early and stay hydrated.
4. Naches Peak Loop
Are you looking for a hike for the entire family to enjoy? Naches Peak Loop is an easy-to-moderate-level hiking trail on the east side of Mount Rainier, near the Stephen Tyng Mather Memorial. This 3.5-mile loop trail has a 659-foot elevation gain and, on average, takes an hour and 40 minutes to complete.
Explore rocky terrains, luscious forests, and sparkling lakes as you journey through this trail. Listen for birdsong in the trees, and perhaps, you could hear—and see—a diverse range of birds, from bluebirds and robins to eagles and ravens. This trail is popular among hikers, so it’s often crowded on weekends. Try visiting on a weekday or go for an early morning hike!
5. Nisqually Vista Loop
Accessible from the Paradise lower parking lot, Nisqually Vista Loop is a family-friendly, easy-level trail. Covering 1.1 miles with a 183-foot elevation gain, this loop offers stunning views of Nisqually Glacier. The trail is paved and runs through tall trees and preserved wildflower meadows, and hikers often encounter snow in June and July.
Make the Most of Your Hiking Trip With Help From Daffodil Storage
Whether you live in Graham, WA, just under an hour northwest, or in Puyallup, over an hour northwest, Mount Rainier National Park makes for a fantastic opportunity for a day trip or staycation! Both experienced hikers and first-timers can enjoy the wide variety of trails and activities, perfect for everyone in the family.
If you run out of space at your home or apartment for all your gear, turn to Daffodil Storage for affordable, reliable self storage. Our storage facilities at 19103 Meridian Avenue Eastand 18820 Meridian East in Puyallup, WA, have the perfect spaces to store your winter gear, as well as kayaks, canoes, and hiking and camping equipment when the offseason arrives!
Use our storage unit size guide to find the ideal size, and explore our blog for more storage tips and tricks.