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September 11, 2022
Hiking
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June 22, 2022
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lava waves
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
14.8km
04:30
530m
530m
If you're seeking a quintessential Mount Rainier experience, the Skyline Trail delivers with its stunning alpine scenery and diverse terrain. This moderate 9.2-mile (14.8 km) hiking loop takes you through vibrant subalpine meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and offers close-up views of Mount Rainier's glaciers. You'll encounter everything from paved sections to rocky paths and stone steps, with the reward of panoramic vistas from Panorama Point.
Plan your visit between late July and September, with late July to mid-August being ideal for catching the wildflower bloom. The trail involves a significant 1731 feet (528 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, so bring plenty of water and sun protection as shade is minimal. Snow patches can linger at higher elevations even into August, so be prepared for varied conditions.
The Skyline Trail is renowned for showcasing nearly all of Mount Rainier National Park's natural wonders in a single hike, making it an iconic choice for visitors. Beyond the main loop, you have options to extend your adventure towards Camp Muir for an even more alpine experience, or take alternative routes like the Golden Gate Trail for a steeper but quicker ascent.
4.8
(9)
168
hikers
5.78km
01:44
190m
190m
The Summit Building – Haleakalā Visitor Center loop from Pan-STARRS offers an easy and accessible way to explore the dramatic high-altitude landscape of Haleakalā. You'll hike across soft cinder trails, often compared to walking on a beach, with panoramic views of a vast volcanic valley. Look for colorful craters and the unique 'āhinahina (silversword) plant as you traverse this lunar-like environment.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration of the weather; temperatures can drop to freezing, and strong winds and harsh UV rays are common at over 10,000 feet (3,000 metres). Dress in layers, bring sun protection, and carry water. Be mindful of potential altitude sickness, even on this easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hike, which typically takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes with 617 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain.
This route is notable for its proximity to the Pan-STARRS observatories, visible in the distance, and the cultural significance of the Haleakalā Visitor Center. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience the unique natural features and scientific importance of the summit area without a strenuous climb, making it one of the popular routes for families and casual hikers.
5.0
(3)
69
hikers
3.13km
00:53
70m
70m
Step onto the Haleakalā Visitor Center – Summit Building loop from Pan-STARRS and enter a landscape that feels truly alien. This easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) loop takes you across a winding dirt path through a vast, rocky, and colorful volcanic terrain, offering panoramic views of rust-hued cinder cones and lava formations. It's a quick 53-minute journey with just 243 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain, but the
Details
Informations
Elevation 3,070 m
Weather
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Tuesday 16 June
19°C
11°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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