Paradise Area Hikes

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Reflection Lakes Trail

Parent Category: Hiking
in Paradise area
Created: 20 February 2014
Distance: 2.75 mile loop trail
Hiking Time: 2-3 hrs
Elevation Gain: 850 ft
High Point: 5,312 ft
Best time for hiking: July - September
What is needed National Park Pass Required
Who are allowed: Pets and bicycles are not permitted on any park trails
GPS Coordinates: Trailhead: N 46° 46' 06", W 121° 43' 45"
Faraway Rock:

N 46° 46' 27", W 121° 43' 08"

Photo from Reflection Lake trail, Mt. Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park, where Reflection Lakes Trail is situated, is one of the most visited parks in the State of Washington. More than 2 million people visit this place annually. It’s no wonder because Mount Rainier National Park is home not only for the most beautiful Mount Rainier, but for mysterious waterfalls, icy glaciers and deep forest and gorgeous meadows that change its’ appearance together with nature.

In our articles, we won’t get tired to remind you that Mount Rainier National Park is a wonderful place with numerous opportunities for everyone. Here you will find well-maintained trails; there are more than 260 miles of trails in the park.

Photo from Reflection Lake trail, Mt. Rainier

We have already told you that this park is famous for its’ Reflection Lakes that received its name from a close and full reflection of Mount Rainier in the waters. Lots of people come here to enjoy this iconic view. And no matter what season you choose for your visit of this place, it will be stunning.

Our team came here in summer and we were able to enjoy wildflowers in full bloom. This multicolored carpet of flowers perfectly framed the lake and set a majestic background for Mount Rainier with its Glaciers.

The next our visit was in October, but the nature was even more beautiful. Take a look at our latest pictures and enjoy fall colors at full breath. No matter what is the color of the frame around the lake, the reflection of Mount Rainier in the waters is breathtaking.

Photo from Reflection Lake trail, Mt. Rainier

Our latest journey to Reflection Lake started at the Stevens Canyon Road parking place. The day was beautiful and perfect for hiking. Reflection Lakes Trail takes you directly to the lake, but on your way you will enjoy wonderful nature.

Every season in Paradise Area is beautiful. In summer, we enjoyed lupine and fireweed and in fall the slopes of the mountains were on fire. Red, yellow, orange…and evergreen conifers...it’s so beautiful. It is so true when hikers say that this trail takes you through panoramic views. On your way you will encounter small waterfalls, old bridges and fabulous meadows.

Reflection Lakes Trail passes between Reflection and Louise Lakes and then climbs steeply bringing you to Faraway Rock. For those who want to continue the journey it’s not the end. You can go further and see Fairy Pond. Usually this small pond is not marked on the map.

We highly recommend visiting this area. Peaceful meadows and subalpine trees will spellbind you!

 

View the embedded image gallery online at:
https://beautifulwashington.com/mount-rainier/hiking/paradise/153-reflection-lakes.html?tmpl=component&print=1&layout=default&page=#sigProId17532a823d

These pictures were taken on August 27, 2014 and October 10, 2014
Directions:

From Seattle

South on I-5 to SR 512 - Exit 127. East on SR 512 to SR 7. South on SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe. East on SR 706 through Ashford to the Nisqually Entrance. Drive to Paradise Area.

In order to get the directions click on the link below:

Photo: Roma Khomlyak

Photo Editing: Pavlo Petryshyn and Alex Mandryko

Information: Marina Petrova