Pinnacle Peak Trail
- Distance, round trip: 2.5 miles
- Elevation gain: 1050 feet
- Hiking time, round trip: 2 hours
- Wilderness camps: none
Trailhead Location
Drive east either from Longmire or Paradise on the Stevens Canyon Road to the parking area at Reflection Lakes. The trailhead is on the south side of the road.
Trail Description
Pinnacle Peak is situated in the middle of the Tatoosh Range at an elevation of 6,562 feet, the third highest peak in the range.
The trail begins with a gradual ascent but soon becomes a steep climb to the 5,920-foot saddle where the trail ends. This trail can have snow or loose rock surfaces all summer. Some sections of the trail skirt steep dropoffs.
Along the Trail
On a clear day the spectacular view from the saddle makes this hike well worth the effort. To the north is a dramatic close up view of Mount Rainier and Paradise. To the south, one sees Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens in the foreground and Oregon's Mount Hood on the horizon. This is an excellent trail on which to see pikas and marmots.
Pinnacle Peak Trail reaches the edge of the designated Butter Creek Research Natural Area (RNA). This is intended as a pristine natural area for ecological study and is closed to public use except pursuant to a scientific research permit, consistent with the national RNA system. Learn more about the Butter Creek Research Natural Area (RNA). Please stay on the trail and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Backpacking
There is no designated camp along this trail nor atop the Tatoosh Range.
Trail Regulations
- Always check current trail conditions before heading out. Current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers. Check hours of operation.
- Fires are prohibited.
- No pets on trails.
- Treat water before drinking.
