7 Easy Mt Rainier Hikes for Beginners (2024)
If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rainier National Park, this list of the best easy Mt Rainier Hikes for Beginners is for you.
No trip to Mount Rainier National Park would be complete without exploring all the amazing hikes the park has to offer.
These hikes are short, minimal elevation gain, and can be easily completed within a day trip. The benefit of these hikes is the wide variety of sites you can see with minimal effort.
By minimal effort, I mean some of these hikes can be completed in under an hour. Even the hardest one is doable by most fitness levels because it’s a gradual incline.
This list of Mount Rainier day hikes is geared toward beginner hikers but will be enjoyable for everyone.
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Easy Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park
1. Skyline Loop Trail
6 miles, 1800 feet elevation gain
My favorite hike in Mount Rainier National Park and one of the most iconic. This hike is considered weather dependent since the main draw is panoramic point which has views of Mount Saint Helens and Mount Adams.
This means the hike is best planned for sunny summer days or clear mornings. I hiked the Skyline trail in poor visibility and loved it so I can only imagine what it is like in good conditions.
The Skyline Trail starts from the main Paradise area next to the visit center and winds up and around the mountain offering panoramic views in every direction. There are also beautiful meadows and stunning waterfalls along the way.
The Paradise parking lot is a hub for many great hikes, some of which are on this list. To secure a spot in the coveted upper lot, arrive at sunrise. Otherwise, add some extra time to hike up from the lower parking lot.
Since this hike is at high elevation, there is a high chance of snow on some or most of the trail. When we visited in October, 75% of the trail had snow on it and 25% of that was knee deep.
With this in mind, wear warm gear, good boots and bring sturdy hiking poles. If the conditions do not seem safe, turn around and visit one of the below hikes instead.
The Skyline hike starts with a steep incline that will make your legs scream. After the initial ascent, the grade will level out for the remainder.
Since this is a loop trail, there is no official “peak”. However, the panoramic point is a good indication of the middle of the hike and offers the best views.
After passing Panoramic point, continue on the upper skyline trail to complete the loop. Be sure to follow the signs closely to avoid getting lost.
After the hike, swing by Myrtle falls (mentioned below) to round out your trip.
2. Myrtle Falls
1 mile, 300 feet elevation gain
Another easy hike originating at the paradise visitor center, Myrtle Falls is a highly trafficked site.
This hike ends with up-close views of a large waterfall with Mount Rainier visible in the distance. In poor weather, as we experienced, the waterfall alone is worth the trek.
Myrtle falls is another great hike for people with kids or limited time. It is also a great short extension to the Skyline Loop trail I mentioned above.
3. Nisqually Vista Loop
1.5 miles, 300 feet elevation gain
I recommend this easy loop for a warmup hike to start your day or a great hike with young children. The hike departs from the paradise visitor center and is one of the easiest hikes in Mount Rainier National Park.
Since the Nisqually Vista trail is right next to the lower paradise parking, it’s a great first or last hike of the day since you’ll be near your car.
The Nisqually Glacier loop highlights a stunning view of the glacier with minimal effort. Since the main draw to this hike is a viewpoint, it is not ideal to visit in low-visibility weather.
The Nisqually vista loop is flat throughout but offers great views. It begins along a small river, then passes through a meadow and concludes at a lookout.
If you are lucky, you will experience wildlife on this hike such as deer, eagles and bears. Be sure to enjoy them from a safe distance.
4. Reflection Lakes
3 miles, 900 feet elevation gain
One of the most photographed locations in the National Park, this beautiful lake offers a unique view of the mountain.
As seen all over Instagram, the mountain reflects perfectly in the lake when there are clear conditions, and the lake is still.
Since the conditions have to be perfect for the iconic photo, visit this lake in the morning of a day with a clear forecast.
Since we visited on cloudy days, we chose to forego this hike but it is at the top of my list for next time. If you have done this hike, let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
5. Grove of the Patriarchs
1.5 miles, 150 feet elevation gain
Grove of the Patriarchs loop is the most consistent hike on this list. Whether it is raining, snowing, windy or sunny, this loop will be enjoyed all the same.
A short, flat walk through the forest will reward you with an up-close view of some giant redwood and cedar trees. There is also a fun drawbridge crossing the river and many educational signs.
Since this hike is short, quick, and beautiful, it is a must-see for anyone in the area.
6. naches peak loop Trail
3.5 miles, 660 feet elevation gain
This loop trail takes just under two hours and offers amazing views. The highlight of the trail is a lake, but you will see amazing mountain views along the entire path.
I like that this trail is a loop so you can see different sights and terrain for the entire duration, and not have to backtrack.
The trail is categorized as moderate, but I think it’s an easy option if you take the inclined portions slowly. The overall grade is not steep and very manageable.
I also highly recommend this trail for viewing fall foliage if you are visiting in October or early November.
7. Silver Falls Loop Trail
3 miles, 500 feet elevation gain
Directly across the road from the grove of the patriarchs is a connection to the Silver Falls Trail.
Although not labeled as the silver falls loop trail, follow the only trail across the street and you will soon meet up with the silver falls trail.
A half mile from the road, you will find the silver falls, a multi-level roaring waterfall. There are many marked overlooks and a bridge that gives stunning views.
If you are short on time, turn around here because this is the best view this loop offers. If you have more time, continue along the trail for a meandering 3 mile loop through the forest.
Easy Mt Rainier Hikes Map
Below is a map of this list of Mount Rainier National Park hikes. As you see, these hikes are spread across the sunrise area and the paradise area of the park.
Use this map of the trailhead locations to plan out your park itinerary.
Packing for Hikes in Mt Rainier National Park
To best enjoy your day hikes in Mount Rainier National Park, make sure to pack the following items. The weather can be unpredictable and change quickly so being prepared is key.
- Layers, layers, layers: Since the weather can vary throughout the day and at different elevations, take advantage of layers to stay warm and dry or cool down if necessary.
- Snacks: There are very few dining options in the national park and I personally do not like wasting time getting food when I could be exploring. Pack proteins-filled snacks for breakfast in lunch to avoid any midday “hangry”-ness. I enjoy PB&J sandwiches, trail mix and dried fruit for quick energy.
- Lots of water: As mentioned above, there is limited food service in the park which also applies to water. Pack in enough water for the day so you do not have to waste time searching for a water fountain.
- Bear spray: To hike Mount Rainier National Park safely, bear spray is a must. While the animals are beautiful, they are also dangerous and it is best to be prepared for an unexpected encounter.
- Good hiking shoes: While some of the trails are paved, others cover rough rocky and snowy terrain. These hiking boots were a lifesaver for me especially on the Skyline Loop Trail.
Leave no Trace Principals
Leave No Trace is a set of principles designed to promote responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation. These principles help minimize the impact of hiking and camping on the environment.
Here are Three Leave No Trace principles for hiking:
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:
- Research the area you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with its regulations, weather, and terrain.
- Pack appropriate gear, clothing, and equipment to ensure your safety and comfort.
2. Dispose of Waste Properly:
- Pack out all trash, litter, and food scraps. Leave natural and cultural features as you found them.
- Use established restroom facilities when available; if none exist, bury human waste in a “cathole” at least 200 feet from water sources.
- Pack out used toilet paper and hygiene products in a sealed bag.
3. Leave What You Find:
- Do not pick plants, disturb wildlife, or collect rocks, historical, or cultural artifacts.
- Leave natural and cultural features, such as rocks, plants, and historical structures, undisturbed for future generations to enjoy.
- Avoid creating graffiti or disturbing the environment in any way.
These Leave No Trace principles are essential for preserving the natural beauty of hiking areas and ensuring they remain enjoyable for all, both now and in the future.
Summary of The Best Hiking Trails Mount Rainier
Overall, there are many great hikes in Mount Rainier National Park. While some are very challenging or even take multiple days, there are plenty of short and easy hikes for beginners, seniors, or kids.
Although this guide lists some of the easier hikes in the park, you won’t be sacrificing amazing views. These hikes take you to stunning viewpoints, clear lakes, large waterfalls, and more.
Before you visit, be sure to check with the National Park Service for the latest weather and trail conditions to plan accordingly.
FAQ – Hiking in Mount Rainier National Park
Yes, you need a National Park pass to enter. A day pass costs $30 per car or an annual pass costs $80. The annual America the Beautiful pass
Mount Rainier National Park is around 80 miles and a 2 hour drive from Seattle.
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