Naches Peak Trail

The Naches Peak Loop Trail is one of the most popular hike in Mt. Rainier Park. If solitude is what you are seeking hike elsewhere. If easily accessible views of the mountain, alpine lakes and flower-filled meadows are what you're looking for then you'll find it here. The total mileage for this trek is four miles with an elevation gain of 520 feet.

Begin this hike along the Pacific Crest Trail at Chinook Pass. You can park your car at Tipsoo Lake Picnic Area or on Highway 410 at Chinook Pass. This description follows the trail from Tipsoo Lake.

Hike northeastward from the picnic area gaining approximately 240 feet before reaching State Road 410. Cross the road on the wooden walkway which is signed as the Pacific Crest Trail. On the eastern side of the highway the trail leads southeastward along the northern and eastern flanks of Naches Peak. The trail contours the mountain ascending slowly at first. Three quarters of a mile from the highway the route passes some small unnamed lakes. This portion of the trail may be snow covered until lake summer.

Beyond the lakes the trail gets steeper as it ascends the eastern ridge of Naches Peak. The ridge crest lies at approximately 5,900 feet, which is the high point of the trek. This is also the easternmost point of the route and from here the trail turns westward descending steadily.

Upon descending from the ridge the trail leaves the William O. Douglass Wilderness area and enters Mt. Rainier National Park. Immediately after entering the park the trail forks. The right side of the fork follows the Pacific Crest Trail eastward to Dewey Lake. This is a steep descent to a picturesque alpine lake. This makes a good option for individuals wanting a longer hike or swimming spot.

Continuing along the main trail, your now walking westward along the southern flanks of Naches Peak. Shortly after entering the park the trail passes a small lake to the right. Beyond this the route descends steadily. Within one mile of the small lake the Naches Peak trail traverses the western ridge of the peak and turns northward. The descent continues another half mile to State Road 410. Cross the road to reach the trailhead at Tipsoo Lake. A short, maintained path circles the lake for an easy extension of the Naches Peak Trail, traversing the east side of Naches Peak 1.6 miles until intersecting the Naches Loop Trail. To continue the loop and return to Tipsoo Lake in 1.4 miles, follow the Naches Loop Trail along the west side of Naches Peak. An option for hikers with a bit more time and energy is to proceed on the Pacific Crest Trail from the junction to Dewey Lakes, an additional one mile round trip. This short hike is well worth the extra time and effort.

Along the Trail To get the best views of Mount Rainier, hike the loop in a clockwise direction This loop provides the hiker with breathtaking views of the Mountain, a look at beautiful subalpine meadows, and an abundant supply of huckleberries in late summer and early fall.

Mount Rainier National Park, P.O. Box 268 , Ashford, WA, 98304-9751, Phone: 360-569-2211