Mount Rainier National Park’s Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout Hike
If you’re doing a one day trip into Mount Rainier and looking for an epic hike, look no further than Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout!
This popular 5.6 mile out and back trail gives you breathtaking views of Mount Rainier the entire way. It is a fabulous day hike that leads you past alpine lakes and through subalpine meadows up to a fire lookout with an uninterrupted view of Mount Rainier!
Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout in Mount Rainier is known for sunset. The way the sun glows over Mount Rainier makes this a very popular spot for photographers and hikers during the sunset time however, anytime you’re able to make this hike is totally worth it.
We did this hike in the morning and got a gorgeous view of Mount Rainier. In fact, it was perfect timing because the weather started rolling in that afternoon and we wouldn’t have been able to see Rainier if we had hiked it later that day.
The weather is ever changing in Mount Rainier National Park and The PNW in general, so be prepared for all weather conditions and pack some food incase you want to hang out at the top of Tolmie Peak for a while as you might need to wait for some clouds to pass!
Fast Facts About The Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout Trail in Mount Rainier National Park
Length: 5.6 miles, out and back
Elevation Gain: 1,555 feet
Best time to go: June-September
Level: Moderate
It is windy at the top of this hike, so as always pack layers. Check out my blog on what to pack for your next hike here.
The Climb
You’ll begin the ascent traversing through the dense forest for the first 3-4 miles. Then you will encounter your first alpine lake, Eunice Lake. Many people choose to stop and hang out here or enjoy a snack at the lake before continuing up the steep climb to the peak of the trail.
The Top
Once you reach the top, you will see a fire lookout to climb up as well as panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding park. Stop and soak it in. You’ve made it to the top! Enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner up here and enjoy the view!
What to bring on your hike
When packing for your hike up Tolmie Peak in Mount Rainier National park, you’ll want to makes sure you have the essential packing list.
Outfit Inspiration
Make sure to check out my blog post here for hiking outfit ideas for your next hiking adventure.
