6 km away
Box Canyon
This narrow slot canyon is 180 feet deep, with a rushing river at the bottom!
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 492 m
- Ascent
- 8 m
- Descent
- 8 m
Grove of the Patriarchs
Mount Rainier National Park
Hike to a grove of old growth trees on an island in the middle of a river.
Hiking Easy
- Distance
- 1.8 km
- Ascent
- 42 m
- Descent
- 42 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 657 m
- High Point
- 676 m
- Gradient
- 4˚
The Grove of the Patriarchs is the best spot in Mount Rainier National Park to see giant trees. This short, easy hike quickly drops into a grove of ancient trees that soar hundreds of feet into the air. While you won't find any venerable redwoods here, the Douglas-firs, hemlocks, and cedars that you will encounter are absolutely mammoth! According to Tami Asars on WTA.org, "some are nearly 40 feet in diameter and more than 300 feet tall."
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Description
The hike begins on a smooth, easy path that slowly descends along the hillside to the banks of the Ohanapecosh River. Here you'll find one of the highlights of the hike: an incredible suspension bridge spanning the brilliant-blue waters.
The heart of the grove is located on a small island in the middle of the river. Here, you'll be able to walk around a boardwalk loop and gaze in wonder at the trees towering above you. "Signs identify plants and describe features of this habitat," according to VisitRainier.com. Be sure to read the signs and learn about these ancient giants—some of which are over 1,000 years old!
Once you've finished basking in the majesty of this grove, cross back over the suspension bridge and return to the trailhead the way that you came.
Difficulty
Easy
Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.
Low Exposure
The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.
Remoteness
Close to help in case of emergency.
Best time to visit
Features
- Picturesque
- Water features
- Family friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation
Similar routes nearby
Guidebooks in this area
8 routes · Hiking