I’m going to be honest, if you are visiting Mount Rainier for views of Mount Rainier, this trail isn’t for you. If you are looking for a pleasant easy walk in the woods surrounded by tpwering Cedars and a bit of informative flora plagues, than sign right up. If you are staying in the more centralized Rainier region of Ashford, WA- this trail maybe a bit of a drive for you but it is at least scenic one. I highly recommend this trail on an overcast or rainy day or for young or old hikers looking for an easier trail.
About the Grove of the Patriachs:
The trees along this trail are some of the largest and oldest in Mount Rainier National Park (with several over 1000 years old) Many trees are more than 25 feet in circumference and the “Big Cedar” highlight is almost 50 feet around. Several info plaques describe the trees and other growth along the trail and of course my favorite always comes down to “nurse logs” where youngers trees sprouted from a felled older tree all in a straight line.
Trail details:
Distance: 1.2 miles RT
Elevation Gain: 45 feet (flat)
Time: 30 min- 1 hour
Fees: Within Mount Rainier National Park so fee is $35/ car or free with the National Park Pass
Trailhead:
The trailhead is located along Stevens Canyon Rd (closed in Winter) which connects Paradise/ Ashford parts of Mount Rainier NP to the SE side of the park. The drive from Paradise is very scenic with nice overlooks and viewpoints (including Reflection Lake). If driving from Paradise, the trailhead will be on your left with a small parking area that fits about 10 cars. Street parking is available if the small lot is full but with a few trails starting here, it can get busy.
Trail description:
The trail surprisingly isn’t super well marked with its name but starts right next to the bathrooms and follows the East Side trail before it splits off to the right to cross the bridge. There’s a trailhead sign but it serves all the trails so is also not very evident. Follow the trail about 0.3 miles and you’ll see the trail split to the right shortly followed will be the suspension bridge.
Cross over the suspension bridge and follow the short loop trail around all the towering Cedars. The “Big Cedar” and a couple very impressive nurse logs are the highlights of the loop for me.
When we visited in August it was quite busy with cars parked along the road but we managed to snag a parking spot in the lot. There were lots of families along the trail but there were spots we could space out and feel a bit of solitude.
The suspension bridge was a “true” suspension bridge in that it swings and moves as you cross it. The railings are high enough it isn’t too scary, but use caution if you have issues with balance or vertigo.
That being said we loved the bridge and the beautiful blue glacier river that runs under it- the towering trees, and peaceful little walk. All in all for our rainy day in Mount Rainier region, we happily chose an easier trail to explore and wander on.
