Sourdough Ridge Trail West to Frozen Lake

Sourdough Ridge West is a 3-mile loop from Sunrise to Frozen Lake and back by the Wonderland and Old Campground trails. It climbs about 500 feet; allow around two hours if you want time for the views. It’s a good choice for a named destination and big mountain scenery without committing to a long summit day. Frozen Lake is the turnaround; keep to the marked trail to protect its fragile surroundings.

Start from the north side of the Sunrise parking area, between the restrooms and Day Lodge. Follow the wide gravel path up through Yakima Park, then take the left fork toward Sourdough Ridge. At the ridge junction, turn west. The other direction heads toward Dege Peak, a different hike. The route climbs briefly and steeply beneath Antler Peak, then follows the open ridge to Frozen Lake. Return on the Wonderland and Old Campground trails to make the loop.

The climb through the broad valley gives way to a ridge walk above Sunrise Valley. Rainier and Little Tahoma rise over the surrounding slopes; the route also looks across the White River Valley toward the Cowlitz Chimneys, Mount Adams, and the Cascades. Mount Baker may appear to the north on exceptionally clear days. On the open ridge, leave some of the trail in the foreground so the picture shows how the path crosses the high ground with the valley beyond.

Frozen Lake is the main water source for the Sunrise area, and the subalpine plants around it are fragile. Stay on the marked trail to protect fragile plants around the lake. In the meadows, black-tailed deer, mountain goats, marmots, golden-mantled ground squirrels, and birds are all part of the area’s wildlife. Wildflowers peak in mid-to-late July; fall color can begin in September.

The trailhead is beside the Sunrise Visitor Center parking area. Seasonal restrooms, a gift shop, and a snack bar and grill are nearby, not out on the route. Sunrise Road is usually open to vehicles in summer, typically July through September. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails.