FATMAP by Strava

Box Canyon

Mount Rainier National Park

This narrow slot canyon is 180 feet deep, with a rushing river at the bottom!

Hiking Easy

Distance
492 m
Ascent
8 m
Descent
8 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
920 m
High Point
928 m
Gradient
Box Canyon Map

At just 0.3 miles, many hikers might skip over this short paved loop to Box Canyon. That would be a mistake, though, because this quick roadside stop in Mount Rainier National Park is absolutely jaw-dropping!

Description

"Box Canyon is a narrow slot canyon carved by the Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River," writes the NPS. From the wooden footbridge, you can look straight down 180 feet into the canyon below. The rushing water foams through the canyon below you, slowly carving deeper and deeper into the granite bedrock.

Even along this short stretch of trail, you'll enjoy a unique environment as you walk over an exposed slab of granite bedrock. Mount Rainier National Park is truly a diverse area, and Box Canyon puts that diversity in stark relief.

Difficulty

Easy

Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Picturesque
  • Water features
  • Family friendly

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area