The Longest Scenic Route Around Mt. Rainier Leads to a Hidden Lake

Mount Rainier National Park spans 369 square miles, and it's surrounded by some stunning scenery, charming small towns, and rugged rural property. While we always recommend exploring the park itself, especially on foot, there is a scenic drive that will take you in a giant loop around it, taking you straight to some of the area's top attractions in the process.

The route encircling Mount Rainier is about 147 miles long, but you should allow for a solid five hours so you can explore. It's usually snow-free by the beginning of June, and you can typically drive it well into October. To circle Mount Rainier, just merge onto Highway 410 in the Enumclaw area and plan on beginning and ending in this area to get the full effect.

Known for being the gateway to Mount Rainier National Park, Enumclaw is a charming rural town nestled against the foothills of the Cascades. Life here is quiet and peaceful, and that's just the way the locals like it.

After you have explored this area, you'll want to head east on Highway 410 for about 15 miles until you reach Federation Forest State Park. This breathtaking 619-acre park is often overshadowed by Mt. Rainier, but it's definitely worth checking out.

As you drive, you'll notice several viewpoints along the way. While stopping at all of them isn't necessary, we highly recommend parking the car at a couple of viewpoints and admiring the scenery. Admire the mountain in all its glory. This is a beautiful part of the state, and the landscape is unforgettable.

One of our favorite major landmarks on this route is Skookum Falls, a dramatic two-tiered waterfall that drops down the mountain into a river. Skookum Falls is viewable from one of the roadside viewpoints, but you're welcome to hike down and take a closer look.

We also recommend that you check out the intriguing Box Canyon. The Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River has cut a channel into the mossy rock over time, creating a canyon 100 feet deep but only 15 to 30 feet across. You can take a narrow bridge over the canyon on foot or just admire the area from the car. There's a great picnic area here as well. But keep in mind, Box Canyon is only open during the summer season between June and September.

And while you'll pass plenty of bodies of water on this route, don't let the day end without taking a look at Reflection Lake. This picture-perfect scene is one of the most photographed spots in the park, and for good reason. On a clear day and at sunset, this place looks too magnificent to be real.

Ready for your trip? We think you'll love it! And if you're looking for additional recommendations for things to do at the park or nearby, our itinerary planner has some great suggestions!