Burroughs Mountain Trail

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Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This trail is above treeline for a substantial distance, so exposure to the elements is a given. Be ready for steep grades on either side of the summit.

The peak on Mount Rainier's northeast slope honors naturalist and essayist John Burroughs.

The Burroughs Mountain Trail begins from a junction with Wonderland Trail near Shadow Lake. It climbs sharply to an overlook on the White River and Emmons Glacier. Beyond the overlook the route continues up and onto the wide, flat plateau of First Burroughs Mountain, reaching a junction with the North Burroughs Mountain trail to Frozen Lake in 1.5 miles.

From that junction, follow the trail to the west for roughly 0.7 miles to the summit of Burroughs Mountain. The mountain views from any point on this trail are superb and Burroughs Mountain offers possibly the finest, most assessable tundra in the Cascades.

After taking in the staggering summit views, you can turn around to retrace your steps or continue on the trail as it drops onto the mountain's north face. From the summit the trail descends along the northern side of the ridge before crossing back to the south at a saddle. Shortly thereafter, you'll re-enter the forest as the trail dives toward the valley floor via a long sequence of switchbacks. The Burroughs Mountain Trail terminates at a junction with the Glacier Basin Trail.

Although there is no camp on Burroughs Mountain, Sunrise Camp lies along the way, approximately one mile from the parking area. It is popular with families who wish to travel only a short distance before making camp.