Hike the Naches Peak Loop Trail

Naches Peak Loop Trail is a great introductory trail to Mount Rainier National Park situated on the Eastern side of Rainier. Half located within Mount Rainier NP and half within Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Naches Peak is a 3.5 mile trail with minimal elevation gain (700ft) yet with views worthy of a much longer hike.

The Trailhead starts at Tipsoo Lake . It is recommended to hike the trail in a clockwise direction as the southern portion of the trail will keep Mt. Rainier always in sight. To do this you will want to park at the first parking lot you see off of 410 at Tipsoo Lake. Before you set out on the trail be sure to do a circle around Tipsoo. On a clear day it can provide some great glimpses of Rainier over its shiny green waters.

Once your'e ready, head back towards the parking lot where the Naches Peak Trail truly begins. It will start by shuffling you up a hill, across a road, and finally opening up into a luscious green valley. In July and August wildflowers are on their best display after the last of the snow has melted away. About one mile in you will reach a tiny unnamed lake that when looking back down the trail yields fantastic views of the mountain lines which lie behind you. Trekking on another mile will then bring you to a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail and an outlook of the nearby Dewey Lakes. There are a few little side trails at this junction that give you the chance to find a nice private spot to stop and enjoy a mid-hike snack with a view.

Got your fills worth of trail mix/cheese and crackers? Then time to finish up the fun half of the loop with Mt. Rainier locked in sight! The short hike back ends with you approaching Upper Tipsoo Lake before descending down to your original starting point. Not ready to leave the park yet? Check out nearby White River Campground in the Sunrise section of the park to grab yourself an overnight spot.