Mount Rainier · easy
Naches Peak Loop
3.5 miles round trip
600 feet of gain
Jul–Oct best season
easy difficulty
A family loop with unfair scenery — tarns, meadows, and Rainier over your shoulder half the way around. Clockwise keeps the mountain in front of you.
Official details reviewed 2026-07-21 · Always recheck alerts before travel
Why choose this trail
A family-friendly high-country loop. The loop circles Naches Peak from Chinook Pass using part of the Pacific Crest Trail. Clockwise places many of the strongest Rainier views in front of you.
Landscape & habitat
Small tarns, subalpine meadow and wind-shaped trees sit at the crest of the Cascades. Flowers peak quickly after snowmelt.
Access, passes & rules
Chinook Pass is seasonal. Parking jurisdictions and pass requirements vary around the pass, so read signs at the exact lot used.
Conditions & hazards
Early-season snow can hide the tread on steep slopes. Afternoon storms and cold wind arrive quickly at the pass.