Paul Peak Trail

Paul Peak Trail is a 6.2-mile out-and-back from the Paul Peak Trailhead at Mowich Lake Entrance to a signed junction with the Wonderland Trail and back. It drops first, then follows a long run of switchbacks down Paul Peak's flank. This is a quiet forest walk with a few unusual views of Rainier; it does not climb the summit or end at a big overlook. Most of the climbing comes on the return. Allow about four to five hours.

The soft dirt path drops about 250 feet in its first half-mile, under old firs and hemlocks with moss, salal, Oregon grape, sword ferns and trillium. Meadow Creek arrives around 0.6 mile, crossed on a log bridge. Beyond it, the tread rolls and climbs in places before the long descent resumes. Douglas squirrels and garter snakes are among the small wildlife reported in this forest.

The lower switchbacks cross Paul Peak's flank through debris left by a powerful 2004 windstorm. Fallen trees opened gaps in the forest, and those openings give a rare look toward Rainier's northwest face and the Elk Head below the summit. Pause where the view appears; including a little of the tree line makes it clear this is a forested slope, not a bare summit.

At about 3.1 miles, Paul Peak Trail ends at a signed T-junction with the Wonderland Trail. Turn around there for the 6.2-mile route; continuing right adds a short descent toward Mowich River and makes a longer hike. The walk back is mostly uphill. Mowich Lake Road is rough gravel and is typically open to vehicles from July through October; in winter, the unplowed road is used by skiers and snowshoers. A park entrance pass applies. Backcountry camping needs a separate permit, and pets are not allowed on trails. Food service and potable water are not documented at the trailhead; bring what you need and treat natural water.