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Pinnacle Peak

Mount Rainier National Park

A steep hike and scramble to the summit of Pinnacle Peak.

Hiking Extreme

Distance
4.6 km
Ascent
500 m
Descent
499 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.5 km
High Point
2 km
Gradient
26˚
Pinnacle Peak Map

If you are looking for a short but challenging hike with stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding peaks, the Pinnacle Peak hike is a great option. This 2.9-mile round-trip trail climbs over 1,600 feet to the summit of Tatoosh Range.

Description

The trail starts at the Reflection Lakes parking area and ascends through subalpine meadows and forests. The trail can be rocky and snowy, so hiking boots are recommended. As you climb, you will get glimpses of Mount Rainier and the lakes below.

The designated trail ends at the saddle, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Paradise, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Hood. You can also see the other peaks of the Tatoosh Range, such as Castle Peak and Unicorn Peak. This is a great spot to see wildlife, such as pikas, marmots, and birds.

Intrepid climbers will, of course, want to finish the climb by scrambling to the summit of Pinnacle Peak, or nearby Plummer Peak. However, be aware that these routes are steep and exposed, and require some climbing skills. For an easier hike, simply turn around at the saddle and return the way you came.

Sources: Pinnacle Peak Trail - Mount Rainier National Park (U.S. National Park .... https://home.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/pinacle-peak.htm. Pinnacle Peak Saddle Hike Route Guide- See Mount Rainier - 10Adventures. https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/mount-rainier-national-park/pinnacle-peak-saddle-trail/. Pinnacle Peak Trail. https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/pinacle-peak.htm. Mount Rainier National Park Pinnacle Peak Trail. https://www.us-parks.com/mount-rainier-national-park/pinnacle-peak-trail.html. Conversation with Bing Chat

Difficulty

Extreme

Scrambling up mountains and along technical trails with moderate fall exposure. Handholds are necessary to navigate the trail in its entirety, although they are not necessary at all times. Some obstacles can be very large and difficult to navigate, and the grades can often be near-vertical. The challenge of the trail and the steepness of the grade results in very strenuous hiking. Hikes of this difficulty blur the lines between "hiking" and "climbing".

Extreme Exposure

4 out of 4

Some trail sections are extremely exposed where falling will almost certainly result in serious injury or death.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between June and October

Features

  • Alpine
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area