Summerland Trailhead

Summerland is a popular destination with views of Mount Rainier and Little Tahoma.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Three miles past the White River Entrance along the White River Road near Fryingpan Creek Bridge.

Amenities

2 listed

Parking - Auto, Trailhead

Summerland

Trails from Sunrise Road via the Wonderland Trail

Season: Summer Only (June - October)
Summerland Trailhead is located along White River Road, which is open to vehicles during the summer season only, typically June-October. 

Drive through the White River Entrance and proceed three miles to a parking area near the Fryingpan Creek bridge. The trailhead is across the road. Parking space is limited and fills early on sunny summer days. Have an alternate hike in mind in case parking space is not available.

From the parking lot, a short 0.1-mile trail connects to the Wonderland Trail, which branches off to the right and heads north towards the White River Campground. Keep straight and follow the Wonderland Trail as it ascends gradually through mature forest for several miles before entering the upper valley of Fryingpan Creek where hikers find good views of Mount Rainier. Shortly after crossing the creek at a small cascade, the trail climbs steeply for another 0.5 miles before reaching the open subalpine meadows of Summerland. The variety of subalpine wildflowers, panoramic views of Mount Rainier and Little Tahoma, and frequent sightings of mountain goats and other wildlife make this hike extremely popular. This is one of Mount Rainier's most crowded trails, hosting several hundred hikers per day on a nice summer weekend. Round trip, the trail to reach Summerland is 8.4 miles long with 2,100 feet of elevation gain. The trail is dirt, with sections of log or rock steps.

Please hike only on the constructed trails and rest on nearby rocks. Minimize your impact on these fragile meadows so they remain beautiful. Campsites at Summerland are some of the most popular in the park and often fill early on summer days. A wilderness permit is required to camp. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers. Treat water before drinking. Fires are prohibited. No pets on trails.