A Day In Longmire

Explore the historic structures of Longmire year-round.

NPS Photo

Longmire is an area steeped in history with so much to offer. There are countless opportunities to learn, explore, recreate, and enjoy Mount Rainier National Park here. Longmire has lots of historic buildings and scenic hiking trails. Stop at the historic Nisqually Bridge or the Trail of the Shadows to take in some history, or stretch your legs by hiking Rampart Ridge or Eagle Peak. This is a great place to visit year round. The National Park Inn is a nice place to take a break after a long drive, and the Longmire Museum provides information to visitors. Always check trail and road conditions with a park ranger or online before hiking. Many trails may be partially or totally covered in snow and can be dangerous. Roads may be closed due to snow conditions. Plan your day in Longmire by mixing and matching the options below. 

Mountain Views

Year-round and weather dependent.

Trail of the Shadows (0.7 miles round-trip, 30 minutes) - Trail of the Shadows begins across the main park road from the Longmire Museum. A short spur trail will take you into the meadow and offer a view of the mountain. For your safety, do not drink the water from the springs! 

Longmire Community Building (1 mile round-trip, 40 minutes) - Follow the side road towards all the buildings and through the employee housing area. The road will make two switchbacking turns before crossing the Nisqually River on a wooden suspension bridge. Cross the bridge and follow the road to the Community Building on the left. Enjoy the views of Mount Rainier! 

Rampart Ridge (4.6 mile loop, 1339 feet elevation gain, 2.5 hours) - Beginning from the Trail of the Shadows, this is a steep loop trail traveling through forests with vistas from the top. 

Waterfalls

Carter Falls Trail (2.2 miles round-trip, 500 feet elevation gain, 2 hours) - The trail begins at the paved pullout 100 yards below Cougar Rock Campground. To add 1.4 miles one-way to the hike, start in Longmire rather than Cougar Rock Campground. Look for the Wonderland Trail sign in Longmire to start your hike. 

Christine Falls - Located 4.5 miles east of Longmire. Use the pullout just beyond the stone bridge. The trail descends 100 feet to a view of Christine Falls framed by the bridge. For your safety, please don’t stop your car or walk on the bridge— drivers distracted by the scenery may hit you! 

Historic Buildings 

Longmire Historic Walking Tour - Follow the self-guided walking tour pamphlet to explore the National Park Service rustic architecture in Longmire. The pamphlet can also be picked up at the Longmire Museum. 

Longmire Museum - Completed in 1928 and is now primarily used as a visitor center. However, many of the original exhibits are still on display.

Administration Building - Built in 1928 and still stands as a treasured example of National Park Service Rustic architecture.

National Park Inn - Opened in 1906 and is still enjoyed by guests today. Feel free to explore the inside and enjoy a meal at the restaurant. 

Old-Growth Forest

Twin Firs Trail (.4 mile loop, 15 minutes) Located 2 miles west of Longmire (towards the Nisqually Entrance). This short loop is a quick and easy opportunity to enjoy a beautiful old-growth forest and gaze up at towering giant trees. 

Trail of the Shadows (0.7 miles round-trip, 30 minutes) - Trail of the Shadows begins across the main park road from the Longmire Museum. The farthest side of the loop boasts some large old-growth trees. For your safety, do not drink the water from the springs!

Details

Duration

2-8 Hours

There is a variety of activities in Longmire to match any itinerary. 

Activity

Hiking

Longmire has trails for all abilities, from easy nature trails to strenuous hikes. Take a gentle stroll through the developed area to view historic buildings or enjoy lunch at the National Park Inn. Learn about the park in the Longmire Museum. 

Age(s)

Suitable for all ages. 

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are allowed only on the paved roads and paths in the developed area of Longmire. Pets are not allowed on any trails, including the Trail of the Shadows. 

Activity Fee

Yes

Park entrance fee required. 

Location

Longmire

Longmire is located in the southwest corner of the park and is 6.5 miles (10.5 km) east of the Nisqually Entrance.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

The main developed area of Longmire has paved road and paths. In winter, paths can be snow covered and often icy. Buildings and restrooms are accessible year-round. Approximately half of the un-paved Trail of the Shadows (roughly 0.3 miles) is wheelchair accessible, though the trail can be covered in deep snow in winter. Other trails in the area can be steep and challenging.