Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge
An easy but incredibly scenic hike from the Sunrise Visitor Center.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 4.5 km
- Ascent
- 173 m
- Descent
- 172 m
Hike to beautiful views from a historic fire tower in Mount Rainier National Park
Hiking Moderate
If you are looking for a hike that offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, the Cascades, and the Olympic Mountains, as well as a chance to visit a historic fire lookout, then the Mount Fremont Lookout trail is for you.
This 5.6-mile roundtrip hike starts from the Sunrise Visitor Center and climbs moderately through meadows and rocky crags to the top of Sourdough Ridge. From there, you follow the trail west to Frozen Lake, the water source for Sunrise. The trail then traverses the west side of a ridge for another 1.3 miles to reach the lookout tower, built in the 1930s .
Along the way, you can enjoy superb views of Mount Rainier and its glaciers, as well as the spectacular meadows of Grand Park. You might also spot some wildlife, such as mountain goats and black bears. The lookout tower is one of four historic fire lookouts in Mount Rainier National Park and provides an opportunity to learn about the history of fire detection and prevention in the area. You can also admire the panoramic views from the tower and take some amazing photos.
The hike is best done in summer or early fall, when the wildflowers are blooming and the snow has melted. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there is very little shade on this hike .
The Mount Fremont Lookout trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting the Sunrise area of Mount Rainier National Park. It will reward you with breathtaking scenery and a memorable experience.
Sources: Fremont Lookout — Washington Trails Association. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-fremont-lookout Mount Fremont Lookout Trail - National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/mount-fremont-lookout.htm Mount Fremont Lookout Trail | Outdoor Project. https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/washington/mount-fremont-lookout-trail Mount Fremont Lookout Trail | Outdoor Project. https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/washington/mount-fremont-lookout-trail Hiking the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail at Mount Rainier - Adventures of A+K. https://adventuresofaplusk.com/hiking-the-mount-fremont-lookout-trail-at-mount-rainier/ Conversation with Bing Chat
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
An easy but incredibly scenic hike from the Sunrise Visitor Center.
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