2-Day Hiking Adventure Itinerary at Mount Rainier National Park

Day 1: Hiking and Scenic Views

Mount Rainier National Park, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Copper Creek Inn

Fuel up for a day of hiking with a filling breakfast at Copper Creek Inn, where you can savor mouthwatering French toast and freshly brewed coffee.
Located about 15 minutes from the Nisqually Entrance.
USD20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Paradise Visitor Center

Visit the Paradise Visitor Center to check trail conditions and get suggestions for stunning hikes in the area, which will set the pace for your outdoor adventures.
Drive approximately 45 minutes from Copper Creek Inn to the Paradise parking lot.
USD30 (park entrance fee), 30 minutes

9:00AM

Nisqually Vista Trail

Begin your hiking journey with the Nisqually Vista Trail, a 1.2-mile loop that provides breathtaking views of the Nisqually Glacier and is perfect for warming up your legs.
Trailhead starts at Paradise parking lot.
Free with park entrance, 1 hour

10:30AM

Skyline Trail Hike

Next, tackle the more challenging Skyline Trail, a 5.5-mile loop that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Mount Rainier, vibrant wildflowers, and incredible elevation gains.
Begin from the same trailhead as the Nisqually Vista Trail.
Free with park entrance, 3.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Paradise Inn

Refuel with lunch at the Paradise Inn, where you can enjoy a seasonal soup and sandwich while soaking in the majestic views around you.
Just a 10-minute drive from the trailhead.
USD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Myrtle Falls Trail

Enjoy an easy hike along the Myrtle Falls Trail, a 1-mile round trip that leads to a stunning waterfall with views of Mount Rainier in the backdrop, perfect for more photo opportunities.
Drive to the Myrtle Falls Trailhead, approx 30 minutes from Paradise Inn.
Free with park entrance, 1 hour

5:00PM

Reflection Lakes

Spend your evening exploring Reflection Lakes, where a short stroll around the lakes offers picturesque views, especially stunning during sunset.
Drive about 20 minutes from Myrtle Falls to Reflection Lakes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Wildberry Restaurant

Cap off your day with a delicious dinner at Wildberry Restaurant, enjoying platefuls of hearty dishes such as roasted chicken with seasonal vegetables.
A 30-minute drive back to Ashford will take you to the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Evening Stargazing

End your first day enjoying some well-deserved stargazing around Reflection Lakes, where the dark skies showcase the stunning constellation-filled backdrop.
Simply find a nice open area near Reflection Lakes.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Challenging Trails

Mount Rainier National Park, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Sunrise Lodge

Start your second day with a warm breakfast at Sunrise Lodge, opting for a classic breakfast burrito and a fresh cup of coffee to kickstart your day.
Drive about 45 minutes from your accommodation to the Sunrise area.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Sunrise Visitor Center

Head to the Sunrise Visitor Center for trail maps and current wildlife sightings before embarking on your second full day of hiking.
Adjacent to the breakfast spot.
Free, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Burroughs Mountain Trail

Challenge yourself with the Burroughs Mountain Trail, a rugged 9.2-mile round trip hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the mountain and glacier if you push through to the top.
Trailhead found at the Sunrise area.
Free with park entrance, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Burroughs Summit

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the summit after conquering the Burroughs Mountain Trail, taking time to appreciate the stunning vistas and catch your breath.
Dining at your summit spot.
USD10 (lunch supplies), 1 hour

3:00PM

Wildlife Viewing

After lunch, take a moment to observe the wildlife in the area, as this region is known for its diverse fauna including mountain goats and marmots.
Continue your exploration near the summit.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Emmons Vista Trail

Embark on the Emmons Vista Trail, a shorter, yet beautiful 3-mile round trip hike that leads you to phenomenal views of the Emmons Glacier, making it the perfect end to a day of hiking.
Drive back towards Sunrise to the Emmons Vista Trailhead.
Free with park entrance, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Longmire Wilderness Information Center

Refuel at the Longmire area with a delicious meal featuring camp-style chili and cornbread to round off your epic hiking adventure.
Drive about 30 minutes from the Emmons Vista trailhead.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return and Reflect

As the sun sets on your hiking adventures at Mount Rainier, drive back to your lodging, reflecting on the heart of nature you've explored over the past two days.
Drive back to your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour
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