Burroughs Mountain Trail

 

Burroughs Mountain Trail

  • Distance, round trip: 7 miles to Second Burroughs (4.7 miles to First Burroughs)
  • Elevation gain: 900 feet
  • Hiking time, round trip: 2.5 hours
  • Wilderness Camps: Sunrise

Trail Description
This series of peaks on Mount Rainier's northeast slope honors naturalist and essayist John Burroughs.

The Burroughs Mountains can be reached via several trail routes. The Sunrise Rim trailhead is located on the south side of the Sunrise parking area. Traveling in a clockwise direction, the trail passes Shadow Lake on a level grade then climbs sharply to an overlook on the White River and Emmons Glacier. Beyond the overlook the route continues up and onto the wide, flat plateau of First Burroughs Mountain. To make a loop, turn right and hike east to the Frozen Lake junction, then follow the Sourdough Ridge Trail another 1.4 miles east back to the Sunrise parking lot. Or, from First Burroughs turn left and head west an additional 0.7 miles up the trail to Second Burroughs Mountain, featuring spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the Emmons Glacier.

Check current trail conditions before starting your hike! Early season hiking on this trail may be hazardous due to steep snow-covered slopes. Please hike only on the constructed trails and help minimize impact on this delicate environment.

NOTE: Always check current trail conditions before heading out. Log footbridges frequently wash out during the winter or other conditions could be affecting the trail.

Along the Trail
The mountain views from any point on this trail are superb and Burroughs Mountain offers possibly the finest, most assessable tundra in the Cascades. Plants able to survive in this harsh environment are extremely delicate and slow growing. Please help them to survive by staying on the trail!

Backpacking
Although there is no camp on Burroughs Mountain, Sunrise Camp lies along the way, approximately one mile from the parking area. It is popular with families who wish to hike only a short distance before making camp. Permits are required for camping. Fires are prohibited. No pets on trails. Treat water before drinking.

 
 

Last updated: November 19, 2020

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

55210 238th Avenue East
Ashford, WA 98304

Phone:

360 569-2211

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