Mount Rainier National Park - Eagle Peak Trail

Trail Description Distance, round-trip: 7.2 miles Elevation gain: 2955 feet Hiking time, round-trip: 5 hours Wilderness camps: None This peak was originally known as Sim-layshe, a Native American word for eagle. When the Longmire family settled nearby, George Longmire anglicized the name to Eagle Peak. For the first two miles the trail ascends steeply through dense forest to a small stream, then continues another mile to a meadow. Beyond the meadow the trail is much steeper and rocky as it climbs the final .5 mile to the 5700 ft. saddle where the trail ends. Along the Trail Most of the trail lies in virgin forest where hikers can enjoy the beauty of tall timber and look for wildlife among the tree branches and forest understory. Lush subalpine flower fields surround the last .5 mile of the trail. Panoramic views await the hearty hiker who reaches Eagle Peak Saddle! Trailhead Location From the Longmire plaza drive past the building with the flagpole, through the employee housing area and across a suspension bridge.

Continue .1 mile and park in front of the Community Building. Walk a short distance back up the road toward the bridge. The trailhead is on the right about 50 ft. before reaching the bridge. As an alternative, park near the Longmire Museum or National Park Inn and walk to the trailhead. It is located 50 ft. beyond the bridge on the left. Backpacking There is no designated camp along this trail nor atop the Tatoosh Range; however, crosscountry camping opportunities exist for backpackers who are skilled in route finding and minimum impact techniques and wish to camp in a rugged location. Permits are required for camping. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from Wilderness Information Centers, Ranger Stations, and Visitor Centers. Fires are prohibited. No pets on trails. Treat water before drinking.