Pros & cons
PROS
- Noticeably quieter than other Sunrise classics once past Frozen Lake
- Roomy, scenic pass that’s perfect for a longer, wind-sheltered break
- Quick add-on to a true summit for 360-degree views without technical climbing
CONS
- North-facing slopes can hold snow well into summer, complicating footing
- Long, exposed stretches with little shade make hot, windy days feel tougher
Park at the Sunrise Visitor Center; the main lot by the restrooms and lodge fills early on weekends.
Expect full sun and wind exposure, early-season snowfields near the pass and on the summit spur, and an unmaintained, steeper path to Skyscraper Peak. Weather shifts quickly; carry layers and give wildlife space.
Overview
A classic Sunrise-area outing, this moderate, high-alpine trail climbs to Skyscraper Pass for huge views with a very reasonable effort. Plan on about 8.3–8.4 miles total out-and-back with roughly 1,600–1,900 feet of cumulative gain. If you’re feeling spry, a short, steeper boot path from the pass adds roughly 0.3–0.5 miles and ~350 feet to tag Skyscraper Peak for true 360-degree vistas.
Route
From the Sunrise Visitor Center, take the short paved path between the restrooms and lodge to gain Sourdough Ridge. Turn left on the signed Sourdough Ridge Trail and enjoy rolling, wide-open walking toward Frozen Lake. At the five-way junction near Frozen Lake, follow signs for the Wonderland Trail. The tread dips and rises through open, rocky meadows, passes the junction for Berkeley Park, then climbs steadily to sandy, unsigned Skyscraper Pass at about 3.4 miles from Sunrise. The trail to the pass is built and well maintained; the optional spur to the summit is an unmaintained boot path.
Scenery and Vibe
This is big-country hiking from the first steps: near-constant looks at Mount Rainier, the Burroughs, Berkeley Park, and glacial valleys. Mid-summer brings wildflower color across the meadows. The landscape tells a volcanic story too, with pumice and tephra layers showing off Mount Rainier’s eruptive past. Wildlife sightings are common—think marmots and pika chirping from talus, with chances for mountain goats and the occasional fox or black bear at a distance.
Difficulty and Who It’s For
It’s a steady but friendly grade to the pass on good tread. The summit extension is steeper, rockier, and more exposed but non-technical. Compared to Sunrise staples like Dege Peak or Burroughs Mountain, this route tends to thin out after the Frozen Lake junction, especially on busy weekends. The pass itself is a roomy, scenic place to take a long break.
Best Time to Hike
Prime season is July through September, when the meadows are snow-free and wildflowers pop. Early summer can hold snow on north-facing slopes near the pass and especially on the peak spur. Start early for easier parking and calmer conditions; morning light is kinder for photos of Rainier and you’ll avoid the harsh midday sun.
Tips
Bring sun protection—this route is exposed to wind and sun for most of the day. Trekking poles help on early-season snow patches and on the summit spur. Expect rapidly changing mountain weather and pack layers. If you want more miles, you can combine this day with side trips toward Berkeley Park or weave the area into a bigger adventure on the Wonderland Trail.
Where it starts
46.9145, -121.6435Wildlife on this trail
Near Skyscraper Pass Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayBurroughs Mountain TrailRainier’s closest, most dramatic glacier views from SunriseChallenging · 9.5 mi · 5.5 hr
0 mi awayMount Fremont Lookout TrailSunny ridgeline to a 1930s fire lookout with nonstop Rainier views.Moderate · 5.6 mi · 2.8 hr
0 mi awayMystic Lake TrailBig Rainier views, glacier drama, and a quiet lake—worth the grind.Challenging · 21.8 mi · 10 hr
0 mi awayNorthern Loop TrailBig, quiet loop with meadows, glacier views, and airy river bridgesChallenging · 32.6 mi · 20 hr
0 mi awaySunrise Visitor CenterHighest drive-up viewpoint with glacier views and trail accessVisitor Center · Exhibit
0 mi awaySunriseHigh-alpine hub for huge views, wildflowers, and classic hikesTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayMount Fremont Fire LookoutHigh-alpine historic lookout with sweeping Rainier and meadow viewsScenic Viewpoint
0.1 mi awaySunrise Picnic AreaShady tables with big Rainier views and a trail right thereTrailhead · Parking
