Grand Park Backdoor via Lake Eleanor Trail
The traditional approach to Grand Park is a scenic 12.6 mile trek that begins at the Sunrise Visitor Center. In recent years, this “backdoor” approach which shaves more than 4 miles off the hike has become a popular alternative.
Total Distance: 8.5 miles
Total Ascent: 1100ft
Highest Point: 5600ft
Total Ascent: 1100ft
Highest Point: 5600ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Our Hiking Time: 3h 30m
Required Permit: None
Our Hiking Time: 3h 30m
Required Permit: None
From Enumclaw, take State Route 410 east for 25 miles to Huckleberry Creek Road (FR 73). Turn right onto FR 73 and follow for 6 miles to cross the Huckleberry Creek bridge. Continue on FR 73 as it climbs for another 4 miles to the bridge crossing Eleanor Creek, which is signed. There is no official trailhead, but there is room here for several cars to park. View Google Directions >>
Half a million years ago, a cycle of volcanic activity built up the mountain we now know as Mt. Rainier by piling layer upon layer of whatever bubbled up to the surface. Different materials weathered the ravages of time in different ways with varied results. One happy result is sprawling parklands created by areas of erosion-resistant lava. Grand Park is among the largest open meadows in the national park and was dubbed “grand” by park officials.There's a lot more to Grand Park, and you can learn all about it in Washington Wildflower Hikes: 50 Destinations. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!
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