Name: Mount Fremont
Rating: 4.7

“A lovely run to an old firetower atop Mount Fremont.”

— Brian Smith

Features Birding · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

This run begins and ends at one of the most popular areas in the park and dips its toes into some of the best surrounding attractions. Sourdough Ridge, Frozen Lake and, of course, Mount Fremont are visited.

Description

From the Sunrise Parking area, take the Sourdough Ridge Access trail to the Sourdough Ridge Connector and turn left. Once on Sourdough Ridge, Views of the White River Valley, Rainier and lush green surroundings abound as you run.

At mile 3.3, the Huckleberry Creek Trail will branch off to the right (North) and descend steeply from the ridge. Stay straight to keep on the Sourdough Ridge Trail. The final stretch of the trail descends and contours to a terminus at Frozen Lake.

The trail to Mt. Fremont traverses the west side of a rocky ridge for 1.4 miles to a fire lookout built in the 1930s.

Beginning with a slight descent and flat section, the trail quickly transitions to a steep ascent to gain the ridge. Once atop the ridge, the trail traverses to the north and eventually terminates at the Mt. Fremont fire lookout. On a clear day, runners can enjoy superb views of Mount Rainier, the Cascades, and the Olympic Mountains. North of the lookout lies the spectacular meadows of Grand Park.

Flora & Fauna

Open forest and meadows predominate for most of this route. During the height of summer, the flowering meadows of Spray Park rival the beauty of any in the park.