Sourdough Ridge Trail Mount Rainier National Park
Hike the Sourdough Ridge Trail for unparalleled views of Mount Rainier, glaciers, and alpine meadows. A must-do in Mount Rainier National Park!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Sourdough Ridge Trail Mount Rainier National Park
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike the Sourdough Ridge Trail for unparalleled views of Mount Rainier, glaciers, and alpine meadows. A must-do in Mount Rainier National Park!
"Absolutely worth waking up early for the views!"
🎯 Go for Sunrise!
Waking up early for sunrise is rewarded with incredible views and fewer people. :sunrise:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail can be uneven in places. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a good hike. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Fremont Fire Lookout
End of Mt. Fremont Trail (off Sourdough Ridge)
Iconic fire lookout offering panoramic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks. A must-see!
+1
Sunrise Point Views
Sunrise Visitor Center area
Spectacular vistas of Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier, and distant volcanoes. Perfect for sunrise.
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Emmons Glacier
Visible from Sourdough Ridge Trail
Gaze upon the largest glacier in the contiguous United States from the trail.
Wildflower Meadows
Along Sourdough Ridge Trail
In season, these meadows burst with color, adding to the trail's fairytale charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Go Early!
Check Park Entry Requirements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go for Sunrise!
Waking up early for sunrise is rewarded with incredible views and fewer people. +1 :sunrise:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail can be uneven in places. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a good hike. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic vistas and potential wildlife sightings are unforgettable.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. There are limited water sources on the trail. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go for Sunrise!
Waking up early for sunrise is rewarded with incredible views and fewer people. +1 :sunrise:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail can be uneven in places. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a good hike. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic vistas and potential wildlife sightings are unforgettable.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days. There are limited water sources on the trail. :droplet:
⬆️ Check Road Status
Sunrise Road can close due to snow. Always verify conditions before heading out. :road:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding Cascade Range, with many highlighting the Mount Fremont Fire Lookout as a must-see. The trail's beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, is frequently praised, though some note that crowds can detract from the experience during peak times.
"I went for a hike on the Sourdough Ridge Trail from Sunrise Point Lookout to Dege Peak and was a nice day hike."
Robert Alberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sourdough Ridge Trail is accessed from the Sunrise Visitor Center in Mount Rainier National Park. Drive to the Sunrise area, park, and follow signs for the Sourdough Ridge Trail. Be aware that timed entry reservations may be required for park access during peak season.
Yes, there is a large parking lot at the Sunrise Visitor Center. However, it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Arriving early is crucial to secure a spot. +1
Public transportation options directly to the Sunrise Visitor Center are limited. The most common way to access the trailhead is by private vehicle. Consider carpooling if possible.
The drive from Seattle to the Sunrise area of Mount Rainier National Park typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle to the Sourdough Ridge Trail itself, the park may offer limited shuttle services to key areas during peak season. Check the official NPS website for current shuttle information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Mount Rainier National Park often implements a timed entry reservation system during peak visitor months (typically late May through early September). You must secure a reservation in advance to enter the park during these times. Check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information.
There is an entrance fee per vehicle to enter Mount Rainier National Park. This fee is valid for 7 days. Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
The Sunrise Visitor Center typically opens in late June or early July and operates through September, weather permitting. Hours vary, so it's best to check the official park website for current operating hours.
No, the Sourdough Ridge Trail is located within Mount Rainier National Park, so park entrance fees and any required reservations apply.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and individuals with disabilities. Check the NPS website for details on passes and discounts.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Sourdough Ridge Trail itself is generally considered moderate. It's relatively flat for sections, but can have some elevation gain, especially if you extend to Mount Fremont Lookout or Dege Peak. The 5.7-mile roundtrip to Mt. Fremont Lookout has about 1,100 feet of elevation gain.
Hiking to Mount Fremont Fire Lookout and back typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
No, pets are generally not allowed on hiking trails within Mount Rainier National Park, including the Sourdough Ridge Trail, to protect wildlife and natural resources.
You might spot deer, marmots, and various birds. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
The main Sourdough Ridge Trail from Sunrise Visitor Center is paved for a short distance, but beyond that, it becomes a natural dirt trail with uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mount Fremont Fire Lookout offers incredible panoramic shots. Sunrise Point provides stunning views of Mount Rainier, and various points along the ridge offer sweeping vistas of glaciers and valleys.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Golden hour provides soft, warm light, while sunrise can capture the mountain in a serene glow.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is restricted in Mount Rainier National Park. Check the official NPS regulations for current drone policies before flying.
The Sourdough Ridge Trail offers numerous viewpoints directly facing Mount Rainier. The Mount Fremont Fire Lookout provides an unobstructed, iconic perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your children are up for a bit more adventure, the hike to Frozen Lake is a good option, offering beautiful scenery without extreme difficulty. The Mount Fremont Fire Lookout is a fantastic destination, but assess your children's stamina for the full 5.7-mile roundtrip hike. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and make it a fun exploration!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Don't miss the chance to photograph the Emmons Glacier and the vibrant alpine meadows, especially during peak wildflower season. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant peaks.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers
It's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their hiking plans, carry a map and navigation tools, and be prepared for changing weather. The trail is generally well-trafficked, providing a sense of security, but it's still important to be self-sufficient.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Mount Fremont Fire Lookout
+3Many visitors describe the hike to the lookout as absolutely worth the effort, with the panoramic vistas being a major draw. The trail to the lookout is well-maintained but can be exposed, so sun protection is advised. Remember to check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at this elevation.
+1Pro-tip: While sunset is popular, consider a sunrise hike for a more serene experience and equally breathtaking views. The early morning light on Mount Rainier is truly magical.
+1Navigating the Sourdough Ridge Trail
+2This trail is known for its stunning wildflower displays in the summer months and vibrant autumn colors later in the season. Hikers often report seeing wildlife such as deer and marmots along the way. The trail is generally well-maintained, but it's an alpine environment, so be prepared for changing weather conditions and uneven terrain.
+1When planning your hike, consider your fitness level and the time you have available. You can opt for a shorter out-and-back hike to a scenic viewpoint or combine sections for a longer loop. Always carry essentials like water, snacks, sun protection, and layers of clothing.
Best Times for Photography
+2Sunrise at Sunrise Point is a highly recommended experience, providing nearly 360-degree views that include Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier, and even distant volcanoes like Mount Adams. The Mount Fremont Fire Lookout is another prime photography location, offering unobstructed, panoramic shots that are perfect for capturing the grandeur of the park.
+2Beyond the grand vistas, keep an eye out for smaller photographic opportunities, such as the vibrant wildflowers in season or any wildlife you might encounter. Remember to be respectful of the environment and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Social
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