Mount Rainier National Park - Pinnacle Peak Trail

Trail Description Distance, round-trip: 2.5 miles Elevation gain: 1050 feet Hiking time, round-trip: 2 hours Wilderness camps: None Pinnacle Peak is situated in the middle of the Tatoosh Range at an elevation of 6562 feet, the second highest peak in the range. The trail begins with a gradual ascent but soon becomes, and remains, a steep climb to the 5920 foot saddle where the trail ends. Hiking boots are recommended since this trail has either a snow or loose rock surface all summer. From the saddle to the top of Pinnacle Peak is a precipitous scramble on loose, unstable rock.

Hikers wishing to get to the top should use extreme caution and have proper equipment. Along the Trail On a clear day the spectacular view from the saddle makes this hike well worth the effort! To the north is a dramatic close up view of Mount Rainier and Paradise. To the south, one sees Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens in the foreground and Oregon"s Mount Hood on the horizon. This is an excellent trail on which to see pikas and marmots. Trailhead Location Drive east either from Longmire or Paradise on the Stevens Canyon Road to the parking area at Reflection Lakes. The trailhead is on the south side of the road. Backpacking There is no designated camp along this trail nor atop the Tatoosh Range. Crosscountry camping opportunit9ies exist for skilled minimum impact backpackers who wish a primitive experience. Permits are required for camping. Permits and current trail conditions are available at park-wide from Wilderness Information Centers, Ranger Stations, and Visitor Centers. Treat water before drinking. Fires are prohibited. No pets on trails.