Northern Loop

Northern Loop is an out-and-back hike in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, set within the Mount Rainier Wilderness. The route starts at about 3,109 feet and climbs to a high point of 6,405 feet, with a total elevation gain of 9,911 feet for the round trip. That makes it a long, steep outing, and it is rated expert. The National Park Service manages the land, and a fee is charged for the visit. Plan on a full day, and expect the trail to be a serious challenge. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station at Rainier Paradise, which sits about 978 feet lower than the high point, show July and August highs in the low 60s with lows in the mid-40s. Winter is cold, with January highs around 34°F and lows near 24°F. Several other destinations lie within a few miles. Independence Ridge is about 2.2 miles away, and the First Mother Mountain Trail and Chenuis Falls Trail are each about 3 miles off. Paddlers can head to the Carbon River, roughly 3.2 miles away.