Mount Rainier National Park - Green Lake Trail (U.S. National Park Service)

Trail route from Carbon River entrance to Green Lake/ NW

Map of the Green Lake Trail from Carbon River entrance. Click on MAP for larger printable map. Use of a topographic map for best the information.

Trail Description:

Distance, round-trip:	9.6 miles
Elevation gain:	1000 feet
Hiking time, round-trip:	4.5 hours
Wilderness camps:	No

Green Lake is one of the park's most serene mountain lakes. It is surrounded by forest but offers partial views to the south of Tolmie Park.

The trail begins at Carbon River entrance. Three miles in, a trail at Ranger Creek leaves the roadbed sothward toward the lake. It leads through a forest of massive old-growth trees on its moderate ascent to the lake. One mile from the trailhead is Ranger Creek Falls. Beyond the falls the trail ascends another .8 mile to Green Lake.

Along the
Trail:

Eight hundred year-old Douglas fir trees can be found along the route to Ranger Falls. The falls and the lake are unique attractions.

Backpacking:

Camping is not permitted due to the lake's popularity with day hikers and its proximity to the trail. Crosscountry camping opportunities exist in other areas for skilled minimum impact backpackers who seek a primitive camping experience. Permits are required for camping. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers. Fires are prohibited. No pets on trails. Treat water before drinking.