Mt. Rainier from Reflection Lake

Crossing the highway, the trail continues its climb to the pristine Louise Lake, marking the end of Steven’s Canyon. Rounding the south end of the lake, the day tourist density thickens as the trail approaches Reflection Lake, less than a mile ahead. For a roadside attraction, Reflection Lake is quite beautiful, but you might find yourself hurrying along to escape the crowds. If warned that if you show up here at noon on a Saturday during the height of tourist season, it can nearly be an assault to the senses: a traffic jam, idling tour buses, crowds of foreign tourists listening to guides, cigarette smoke, perfume, thumping music from passing cars, kids running around, and curious folks wanting to chat with backpackers. This is an exception, however, as most of the days there are no more than a few small groups here at any one time.

2016ACTIVITIESAugustHikingMount RainierMount Rainier National ParkMt RainierMt Rainier National ParkNational ParkNational Park ServiceNorth AmericaPacific NorthwestParkSummerUSAUnited StatesUnited States Department of the InteriorWashingtonWashington StateWonderland Trail