Hike to Burroughs Mountain
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
Snow lingers on the traverse between First and Second Burroughs well into August some years. Steep snow crossings on loose volcanic rock underneath can be genuinely dangerous without traction devices — check ranger reports at Sunrise before heading out.
There is zero shade and zero shelter above the first half-mile. Lightning storms build fast in the afternoon — if clouds start stacking by midday, turn around. You are the tallest thing on the ridge.
The trail to Third Burroughs crosses loose scree with steep drop-offs on the north side. Route-finding can be tricky when fog rolls in — carry a GPS track or downloaded map, not just your phone's compass.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
The Sunrise parking lot fills by 9:30 AM on summer weekends — arrive before 8 AM or after 3 PM. Alternatively, take the shuttle from the White River campground area to skip the parking headache entirely.
Wind at Second and Third Burroughs can drop the temperature twenty degrees below what you felt at the trailhead. Pack a wind shell even on bluebird days, and bring more water than you think — there are zero water sources above Sunrise.
The best photography light hits Rainier's north face in early morning when the glaciers glow orange-pink. Position yourself at Second Burroughs by 7 AM for shots that most visitors never get because they start too late.
Photos
NPS PhotoGetting There
More Trails in Mount Rainier
Hike to Gobblers Knob Fire Lookout
Hike to Shriner Peak Fire Lookout
Hike to Silver Falls
