Hike 7/24 Sunrise Rim - Mt. Rainier
Friday, July 24, 6:00 AM - 6:30 PM
4 - 6 miles, up to 600 feet elevation gain.
Meet at Everett Station Park & Ride Lot --
A
Summer hiking at the Sunrise area on the northeast side of Mount Rainier is all about the views and the wildflowers, and this hike should deliver big time on those. Lets drive up to the highest trailhead in the park at 6,400 feet above sea level, and trek a loop route using the Silver Forest, Sunrise Rim, and Sourdough Ridge Trails. There's even a little bit on the famed Wonderland Trail as well. Price includes cost of national park permit. Bring a national park pass if you have one, otherwise an additional entry fee may apply.
Expected Conditions:
All roads and trails in the Sunrise area at Mount Rainier are open and in good condition. I had heard there was a prolem with the water system at Sunrise, but the NPS website makes no mention of this, so I assume we will have access to restrooms and the other visitor services there. Our hike will begin from Sunrise (elevation 6400 feet), and go out-and-back on the short Silver Forest Trail. We'll then continue on Sunrise Rim Trail, then join the Wonderland Trail to the 5-way intersection near Frozen Lake. We'll then return on the Sourdough Ridge Trail, for a total of about 5 miles. Expect trails to be very busy, and possibly quite dusty. There is about 600 feet elevation gain, which is quite noticeable at this altitude. Our high point will be about 6800 feet.
Other Considerations:
It's bug season--bring bug repellant. Wear good traction hiking shoes or boots, and use trekking poles for extra stability on rocky sections. Pack food and water in your pack, and plan to eat out on the trail. Bring your national parks pass if you have one.
I need all trip participants to update and submit a Hold Harmless Form for 2026. Click here to go to the form page.