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.

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Why Go on a Mt Rainer Autumn Getaway

51526773064_f3b4a0e76f_o — **Skyline Loop Trail** **– One of the Best Days of my Life!**

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, the fall colors 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 contrasts the warm colors.

Wildlife is Active in Autumn

**Mountain Goat on Dege Peak Trail near Sunrise**

Many of the animals are getting ready for 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.

At Mt. Rainier, I saw a gorgeous, large buck very near Paradise Lodge. On my Skyline Hike from Paradise, 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.

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)

20210925_075233 — **Skyline Trail – The adorable, photogenic Golden Retriever is not mine.**

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 look 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.

mt rainier autumn getaway

Mt. Rainier National Park’s Stunning Autumn Getaway