Palisades Lake Trail
This 7-mile, out-and-back route passes through wildflower meadows and by half a dozen lakes.
Plan Around Palisades Lake Trail
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Palisades Lake Trail Details
This 7-mile, out-and-back route passes through wildflower meadows and by half a dozen lakes (short spur trails lead to each) as it makes its way to Upper Palisades Lake. Park at Sunrise Point, located at a sharp bend in the road just 3 miles shy of the Sunrise Visitor Center. From here, descend .5 miles on a steep slope that's often dotted with snow until July, and then follow the undulating trail past Clover Lake, then Tom, Dick and Harry lakes, and finally a short spur trail leading to Hidden Lake. At 3.5 miles, you'll come upon Upper Palisades Lake, where a rock formation called The Palisades looms over the alpine lake. Look for pikas and marmots on the rocky slopes, and help yourself to huckleberries along the way. Trail stats: 7 miles; 1,800 feet of elevation gain; 4-5 hours.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
7 miles
Estimated time
4-5 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Palisades Lake Trail
Compare nearby parks around Palisades Lake Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Palisades Lake Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Palisades Lake Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Sunrise Point
This spectacular viewpoint sits at a hairpin turn on Sunrise Road, on the drive from White River Campground up to Sunrise.
0.7 mi away
Columnar Lava
Andesite columns formed from an ancient lava flow on Mount Rainier.
1.9 mi away
White River Wilderness Information Center
Provides climbing and wilderness camping permits, and offers park and trail information.
1.9 mi away
Owyhigh Lakes Trail
This mostly forested hike offers a good chance to see wildlife.
2.3 mi away
Summerland Trail
For day trips, this has to be one of the most spectacular hikes in the park.
