Posted in Washington National & State Parks, Nature February 02, 2022 by

Off The Beaten Path In Mount Rainier National Park, You’ll Find A Breathtaking Washington Overlook That Lets You See For Miles

Mount Rainier is a famous national park to visit in Washington. It’s our most iconic natural wonder, and to most of us, our favorite active volcano (but we try not to think too much about that). As you can imagine, a park of this nature has many hidden gems and spots that are off the beaten path. But one of our favorite places at Mount Rainier is the Emmons Vista Overlook, a breathtaking hidden gem with incredible views that you’ll access on one of the best hiking trails in the U.S.

The Emmons Vista Overlook is located near Mount Rainier's Sunrise Point, which is the highest point that can be reached by vehicle.
Steve5863 / TripAdvisor
However, while Sunrise remains perpetually crowded, you can skip all of that by taking the lesser-known Silver Forest Trail. Just follow the signs from the southwest corner of the Sunrise parking lot to find one of the most underappreciated hiking trails in Washington.
This area stays popular from spring until fall, but it's especially gorgeous during wildflower season.
Paquito / Google
The wildflower viewing here is fantastic, adding even more to the long list of all the great things to do outside in Washington.
The Emmons Overlook, which is also known as Glacier Overlook, is easy to spot.
Michael Overstreet / Google
The entire Silver Forest Trail is only about two miles long in its entirety.
The magnificent views from Emmons Overlook include Emmons Glacier, colorful meadows, and Mount Rainier itself.
Chirag Bhatt / Google
This is a great way to remind yourself of how beautiful Washington really is.
Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S., and the Emmons Glacier happens to have the largest surface area of any glacier in the contiguous United States.
Senthil Jegadeesan / Google
But that's not a bad thing. Mount Rainier’s glaciers provide an essential water source for six rivers, including the Nisqually, proving once again that it is one of the best parks in Washington.
The next time you're planning a trip to Mount Rainier, check out the Emmons Vista Overlook.
Steve5863 / TripAdvisor
And prepare to be inspired.

Mount Rainier really is full of hidden gems, making it a great national park to visit in Washington. Had you heard of this spot?  To plan your visit and check on any closures, visit the NPS website. And for more Washington beauty, click here.

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Address: Ashford, WA 98304, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

National Parks To Visit In Washington

February 07, 2022
Seirra Peace

Which state parks should I visit in Washington?

If you want to get outside and enjoy nature, the numerous state and national parks of Washington have got you covered. Check out this list of 15 of the best parks in the state and prepare to be dazzled by all the scenic beauty that the great state of Washington has to offer. No matter what part of the state you visit, you can find peace and serenity in the great outdoors at any of the parks on our list!

What are the best waterfall hikes in Washington?

Are you in the mood to bask in the presence of some of Washington’s most beautiful waterfalls? North Cascades National Park offers some of the best waterfall hikes and views in the state! Colonial Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in Washington (and the continental USA) and can be seen from several locations. Be sure to check out the nearby Ladder Creek Falls on a 4-mile loop trail or the easier half-mile trail to Gorge Creek Falls for more gorgeous waterfall sites!

Where can I hike to a cave in Washington?

The Lake Lenore Cave Trail leads to some breathtaking caves full of Native American petroglyphs. At 1.2 miles long, this trail is clearly marked and is a great experience for hiking aficionados. Learn about Native American history in the Evergreen State and discover a hidden wonder, all in one trip! Be sure to respect this site and leave it the way you found it so that others can continue to enjoy the Lake Lenore Cave Trail for years to come.