Autumn has got to be one of Mt. Rainier’s best kept secrets. As a Seattleite, I went to Mt. Rainer many times in the summer, before discovering its fall beauty. From mid September to early October, the reds, orange and golds carpet the landscapes alongside the majestic mountains. Read on and learn why you should indulge in a Mt Rainier autumn getaway.
My amazing Mt. Rainier National Park autumn experiences were at the end of September. I enjoyed 2 different fall hikes at Paradise’s Skyline Loop and Sunrise trails. Both days were sunny and comfortable at around 60 degrees with no crowds.
Mt. Rainier Autumn Tip: From mid-September to early October, wait for a good weather forecast, preferably on a weekday. Always, get there as early as possible. If fog or rain settle in, the trails will be slippery and the visibility low.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission from each booking that allows me to keep content up to date and maintain this website.
Related: North Cascade’s Picture Lake & Artist Point – Late Summer/Autumn Getaway
Check out my YouTube Video!
Why Go on a Mt Rainer Autumn Getaway
America the Beautiful Pass Required (Buy REI)
Less Crowds after Labor Day
Mt Rainier gets absolutely bombarded in July and August. Many of the hiking trails, including those at Paradise and Sunrise are under snow until July. So, this is a short window to really explore the hiking and camping. After Labor Day, the summer vacation crowd dies off and it’s pretty much there for the locals.
Vibrant Autumn Colors
At the high elevation of Mt. Rainier, autumn come sooner. The fall colors peak from mid/late September to early October. I lived in Seattle for years, until I discovered this. As you can see from my photos, the autumn palette is spectacular.
At Paradise on Skyline Loop Trail much of the fiery red is vine maple and huckleberry bushes with yellow larches. The blend of green from firs and cedars strikingly contrast the warm colors.
Wildlife is Active in Autumn
Many of the animals are getting ready for winter during the fall. Also, I sensed that they know when the human crowds die off. I have never seen any notable wildlife at Mt. Rainier, until my September hiking days.
At Mt. Rainier, I saw a gorgeous, large buck very near Paradise Lodge. On my Skyline Loop hike, I observed a family of marmots very near the trail. Additionally, near Sunrise Lodge, I hiked very close to a white mountain goat. So, from my experience, the wildlife appears to be more active and near trails in fall.
Sunrise is known for elk viewings, but I didn’t see them. Also, many people see black bears, but I haven’t.
Related: Top 10 Spectacular Hiking Trails at Mt. Rainier National Park
Popular Autumn Trails
Easy:
Naches Loop Trail
Myrtle Falls via Skyline (Paradise)
Reflection Lakes
Moderate:
Skyline Loop Trail
Sourdough Gap (Chinook Pass)
Challenging:
Crystal Peak (Chinook Pass)
Burroughs Mountain (Sunrise)
Related: Day Hiking Essentials for a Safe Adventure with REI Favorites
Enjoy a Mt. Rainier Autumn Getaway!
I truly think this is Mt’s Rainier’s best kept secret. You have to be flexible and ready to go when the weather forecast looks promising. You will be so glad you went. I still cherish these experiences as among the best autumn days of my life. If your travels bring you to Mt. Rainier in fall, feel free to share tips or comments below.
Read More!
Ultimate Guide to Mt. Rainer National Park: All You Need to Know
30 Must-See Places in Seattle, Washington from a Local
