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 Reporter |
Summary: One of the most wonderful hikes in the park, however one of the more crowded during peak season. This hike starts out along Fryingpan Creek and takes you into some dense forest for about three miles before an open crossing of the creek and a nice view of Rainier. The trail begins to climb up more steeply as you continue, with the final mile having lots of switchbacks. Once you reach the sub alpine meadows of Summerland, you will see why this is such a popular destination. Take a rest and soak your feet in the stream, or watch one of the many Hoary Marmots. For the more adventurous hiker, continue up another 2 miles and 850ft. to Panhandle Gap elevation 6800ft. The view from here is simply incredible. Return via the same route. In summer bears are sometimes seen in the area, so be careful! Enjoy. Trailhead: Getting there -- From Enumclaw, drive east on state Route 410. Continue 4 1/2 miles past the Mount Rainier National Park entrance and turn right onto the White River/Sunrise Road. Drive a long mile to the park entrance fee station and then in about 3.5 miles to the parking area just across FryingPan Creek bridge. The trail starts on the left side opposite the parking area. Get a spot early as they fill up quickly. (Lat:46.88834 Lon:-121.61108) Trail Guides for Summerland on Mt. Rainier: 50 Hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park by Ira Spring & Harvey Manning (The Mountaineers) Day Hike Mt. Rainier by Ron C. Judd (Sasquatch Books) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: White River Wilderness Information Center 360 663-2273 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Drew Furnia, who has posted 23 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Mollie on 8/3/2008 This hike is incredible! We went the first week of August, and it was so pleasant- not too hot, not too cold, plenty of shade and sunshine. The steep inclines are balanced nicely by frequent relatively easy inclines. I haven't hiked much before, I consider myself a complete newbie. To that end, Summerland is a super rewarding hike for the adventurous city slicker- just long/strenuous enough to be a real adventure, but well kept and well traveled enough that it feels safe and do-able. And Summerland itself is absolutely gorgeous! Heidi-like scenery. A beautiful meadow full of flowers awaits you at the top, with snowy mountain peaks towering above you. I highly recommend this trail. I will do it again, and go further next time! 
Reviewed by RK on 5/17/2008 The access road is still closed as of 5.15.08. Trail only accessible with 4 mile walk on the road past to trailhead. 
Reviewed by Ryan on 11/16/2007 we hiked this trail on 11/11/07, we arrived to a closed road so we added about 8 extra miles ( 4 up 4 back). there was about an inch of snow were we parked the car which was a perfect dusting to make those extra miles worth it and not difficult to hike in. instead of wild flowers and other summer benifits we had a perfect winter wonderland it was amazing!
Reviewed by Rachelle on 7/31/2006 If you hike far enough you get absolutely everything on this hike. You hike through beautiful meadows and forest, along side brooks, rocky glaciers and snow. I saw so much wildlife including mountain goats, beautiful birds, marmots, and chimpunks almost too friendly for their own good. They snatched my trail mix right off my lap! Spectacular view from the top. This trail is by far my most favorite to date.
Reviewed by Strohl on 3/16/2005 This is the best hike in Washington. I saw mountain goats. I came within 10ft of a black bear. I also witnessed marmots, birds, chipmunks. You reach the snow, a clear blue pond. It has everything! Great hike...just a too long if you have kids
Reviewed by Chris on 3/15/2005 Rainier. One of the most beautiful places I've ever been. Summerland is only one of the myriad options on this spectacular mountain. Saw some mountain goats a bit further south from here on the Wonderland Trail. Anyplace is good where there are mountain goats! Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Washington Hiking, Washington Trails, Washington Hikes, Pierce County Hiking, Pierce County Trails, Pierce County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||