This trail leads four miles up the exposed southern aspect of Shriner Peak to a fire lookout on its summit. Begin this hike early to avoid extreme heat.

The trail to the summit of Shriner Peak is four miles one way with three of these miles climbing exposed mountain side. Few people climb this trail, which has an elevation gain of 3,434 feet, so it is a good place to find solitude in a busy park. There are two primitive camping sites near the lookout on the summit. The water source for these sites lies one mile down the trail from the summit.

Begin this hike at the Shriner Peak Trailhead along Highway 123, three and a half miles north of the Stevens Canyon Entrance. The trail leads southeast from the park road climbing immediately. In a half mile the trail turns northeastward and continues to climb steadily. The first mile and a half of the route follows the edge of a dense forest.

On the southern slopes of Shriner Peak at an elevation of 3,860 feet the trail leaves the forest and enters a large burn area. In this exposed area the trail begins a series of switchbacks, which brings it to the southwestern ridge of the mountain. Atop this ridge the views begin. You may also catch a good breeze from this point upward to relieve the heat.

Once atop the ridge the track follows it to the northeast for a half mile. At the end of this leisurely half mile ridge walk the final set of switchbacks to the summit begins. This final portion of the ascent lasts a half mile and gains 550 feet. A fire lookout station lies at the summit of Shriner Peak, where you'll also find unbeatable views of the eastern slopes of Mt. Rainier.

Directions: From Stevens Canyon Entrance, Drive 3.5 miles north on Highway 123. The trailhead is located .5 mile north of the Panther Creek Bridge on the eastern side of the road.

Elevation: 2,400 feet

Ending Elevation: 5,834 feet

Usage: Light

Difficulty: Strenuous

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