The Pinnacle Peak Trail, one of the most popular routes in the Tatoosh Range, offers hikers a short but rewarding climb with breathtaking views. Beginning at Reflection Lakes, the trail quickly ascends through a series of switchbacks, gaining about 1,000 feet in just 1.3 miles. Along the way, wildflowers brighten the path in summer and rocky outcrops provide glimpses of the surrounding peaks. At the saddle between Pinnacle Peak and Plummer Peak, hikers are treated to dramatic vistas of Mount Rainier rising to the north, Mount Adams to the south, and the jagged ridges of the Tatoosh Range in every direction.
Though the hike is only about 2.5 miles round trip, the elevation gain makes it a moderately strenuous outing. Adventurous scramblers sometimes continue higher, but the maintained trail ends at the saddle. With stunning scenery packed into a short distance, Pinnacle Peak Trail is a classic Rainier hike.
