Sunrise Nature Trail

Starting from the highest point you can drive to in the park, the Sunrise Nature Trail loops through subalpine meadows that explode with lupine, paintbrush, and aster during the brief mountain summer. The triangle-shaped route connects two trail forks via the Sourdough Ridge Trail, giving you sweeping views of Mount Rainier's glaciated north face without any serious climbing. The terrain is well-maintained dirt and gravel, mostly exposed to sun and wind with little tree cover at this elevation. On clear days, you can pick out the Emmons Glacier — the largest glacier in the Lower 48 — filling your entire field of vision. Download the self-guided nature tour on the NPS app before you lose cell signal; the interpretive stops add real depth to what you're seeing. This is the perfect trail for families, first-time Rainier visitors, or anyone who wants big alpine scenery without breaking a sweat.