Burroughs Mountain has been described as a mountain against a mountain. At over 7800 feet, Burroughs Mountain sets right up against the northeastern face of Mount Rainier, hugging the Winthrop Glacier. It offers one of the most dramatic views of Washington's largest volcano; the landscape atop Burroughs is both broad and barren, so there is little to inhibit full exposure.

Seemingly little plant life should survive this harsh, high-elevation terrain, yet the number of wildflower varieties which thrive with vibrant color on this hike may surprise you. Besides the floral displays in early summer, the wildlife seen atop this summit is a treat. Goats wander the hillsides, and chipmunks, marmots and pika skitter amongst the rocks, along the trail and atop each of the three “peaks” which define this long, tundra-like alpine mountain. This ecosystem is considered rare alpine tundra.

Itinerary

7:30 am Depart Seattle (we pick up from your hotel/Airbnb/VRBO/Home).

9:30 am Arrive Mount Rainier National Park Entrance Gate

10:00 am Arrive at Trailhead

10 am - 3 pm Hike/Lunch

5:30 pm Return to Seattle

*Times are approximate. It often depends on how quickly each person hikes, trail conditions and traffic.

About the Hike

The hike is a moderate 4 - 6 miles. It begins across a broad expansive meadow above Sunrise Visitor Center and we follow the trail to Sourdough Ridge. From there we can see views North of Mount Baker and Glacier Peak.

Following the trail a bit more we quickly rise above tree line and pass by Frozen Lake. This is where our first climb begins but you’ll be distracted by the beauty and possible mountain goats that call Burroughs Mountain home.

We’ve then reached the first of the three burroughs. Here, if you’ve run out of gas, you can sit and enjoy the view. If you’re energized, we’ll continue on to the second burrough which is our ultimate destination.

Second Burroughs reaches 7,500’. No small mountain in it’s own right, but Mount Rainier towers above us at 14,411 feet. Second Burroughs offers impressive views into the Glacier Basin below, pointed Little Tahoma on a ridge of Rainier to the south, and expansive views of the park to the north, including Fremont Lookout, Berkeley and Grand Parks, and Skyscraper Mountain.

After enjoying a lunch we’ll head back down the trail via a different route that takes us through beautiful green meadows among the trees. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for signs of the resident black bear.

We understand that sometimes plans change! Or maybe you haven't quite got your travel plans sorted yet. We want you to feel fully confident with your booking. We offer a FULL refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. So you can book stress free!

We go out rain or shine. The only time Adventures In Seattle will cancel your hike is if there are dangerous conditions such as lightning or high winds that make the trail unsafe. Should that occur, we will offer a full refund or attempt to reschedule you to another day.