Mt Rainier Hikes Near Packwood
The southeast side of Mount Rainier is quieter than the Seattle side, and it's right on our doorstep. These are the six hikes we point guests to, from an easy loop to a proper climb. Each one links to its Washington Trails Association page for current trail reports and conditions.
Naches Peak Loop
Chinook Pass · 3.2 mi round trip · 600 ft gain · Best late July–August
The easiest big-view hike on the mountain. Wildflower meadows, huckleberries in season, and Rainier filling the skyline. Go clockwise for the best views.
Skyline Trail Loop
Paradise · 5.5 mi round trip · 1,450 ft gain · Best July–August
The classic Rainier hike: waterfalls, glaciers and subalpine meadows up to Panorama Point.
Mount Fremont Lookout
Sunrise · 5.6 mi round trip · 1,200 ft gain · Summer
A historic fire lookout at 7,200 feet, looking straight at the mountain. Very little shade, so bring water and sun protection.
Shriner Peak
Highway 123 · 8.5 mi round trip · 3,434 ft gain · Best in fall
A hard, steady climb with a big payoff. It's exposed and hot in summer, so save it for a cool fall day.
Packwood Lake
Packwood · 10 mi round trip · 1,200 ft gain · Best in spring
One of the first hikes to melt out each year, with wildflowers from May. Just outside the park, so you'll need a Northwest Forest Pass to park.
Good to know
- Park entry: Mount Rainier charges an entry fee, or use an America the Beautiful pass. Buy ahead on Recreation.gov or at the entrance station.
- Forest Service trailheads: (like Packwood Lake) need a Northwest Forest Pass.
- Seasonal roads: Highway 123, Stevens Canyon Road, Chinook Pass and the road to Sunrise close in winter. Paradise is reachable year-round through Longmire, weather permitting.
- Check before you go: trails and roads can close for fire, snow or repairs. See Mount Rainier alerts.
- Dogs aren't allowed on most national park trails.
Hike all day, soak all night
Come back to the A-frame, the hot tub and the river.
