Place

Sunrise Nature Trail Stop 11

A dirt trail goes through the trees, glimpses of a glaciated mountain.
The Sunrise Nature Trail takes you through the trees.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts
Location:
Sunrise Nature Trail begins just to the east of the bathrooms at Sunrise.

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

On this part of the trail, you are approaching the upper elevation limits at which trees can grow in this climate. Compare the trees near you with those in the meadow below. At this elevation, temperatures are lower, and snow covers the ground for seven to ten months each year. These trees may not have the time or reserved energy to produce cones and seeds. An incredibly thin layer of new wood is added each growing season. Trees only inches in diameter may be hundreds of years old!

Mount Rainier National Park

Last updated: July 27, 2022