Hidden Lake Trail

Overview

This is a classic Sunrise-area day hike with an excellent effort-to-reward ratio. The Hidden Lake Trail runs about 6.5 miles round-trip, gaining roughly 1,600 feet overall. Expect a bit of everything Mount Rainier’s high country is known for: open, flower-charged meadows, pockets of subalpine forest, clear mountain lakes, and wide-open views that, on clear days, frame Mount Rainier itself.

Route Snapshot

Start from Sunrise Point (accessible via the White River entrance; approx. 46.8754, -121.5181). The path initially descends from the high trailhead (~6,100 feet), then rolls through meadows and forest, passing small lakes like Clover Lake before a signed spur leads you to tree-rimmed Hidden Lake. The tread is a well-maintained singletrack with a few rocky stretches and two small stream crossings where algae can make rocks slick—step carefully. Out-and-back means you’ll return the same way.

What It Feels Like

Don’t be fooled by the gentle start: because the hike begins high and goes downhill first, the climb back to Sunrise Point makes the return leg the workout. That said, it’s a steady, manageable grade for most fit beginners and up. Lakeside shores offer natural lunch spots and good breaks. Wildlife sightings are part of the charm—deer are fairly common, and black bears do pass through; give all animals plenty of space.

Scenery, Flora, and Geology

Mid-summer meadows can be a riot of wildflowers, broken up by cool, shaded segments of subalpine forest. The lakes sit in classic glacially shaped terrain typical of Rainier’s high country—think soft, rolling uplands and old moraines, with big skyline ridges framing the scene. On a bluebird day, expect intermittent views of Mount Rainier as you move between meadows and trees.

Best Time to Hike

July through September is the sweet spot: the trail is typically snow-free, flowers are prime, and days are long. Early summer can hold lingering snow patches; late fall can bring early snow or mud. Start early—parking at Sunrise Point fills fast on weekends, and morning light across the meadows and lakes is hard to beat.

Know Before You Go

• Out-and-back, 6.5 miles total; allow about half a day with snack/photo time.
• No toilets along the trail; plan accordingly before you head out.
• Bring sun protection and enough water—alpine meadows don’t offer much shade.
• Two short stream crossings can be slippery; trekking poles help.
• Pets aren’t allowed on national park trails. A park entrance pass is required.

Who Will Love It

Hikers who want Sunrise-area meadows and multiple lake views without a huge day will be happy here. If you’re feeling strong, you can continue along the broader Palisades Lakes network for more lakes and mileage—otherwise, Hidden Lake is a satisfying turnaround on its own.