Lake George and Gobblers Knob Trail

The adventure begins at the closed Westside Road, accessible from Dry Creek. You'll hike or bike approximately 3.8 miles along this road to reach the official trailhead at Round Pass. Parking is available at the Dry Creek entrance. Keep in mind that the initial road walk is generally wide and well-graded.

Yes, as this trail is located within Mount Rainier National Park, you will need to pay the park entrance fee. Additionally, if you plan on backpacking and camping at Lake George, a wilderness permit is required. You can find more information on fees and permits on the official NPS website.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early fall. However, snow can persist on the upper sections towards Gobblers Knob well into July, potentially making the final switchbacks challenging. Late summer offers the chance to see wildflowers around Lake George, while autumn provides a sense of solitude due to fewer crowds.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on trails within Mount Rainier National Park, including the Lake George and Gobblers Knob Trail. Pets are permitted only on paved roads, in campgrounds, and in parking lots. Always check the latest park regulations before bringing your pet.

The trail offers diverse scenery, starting with a walk through luxuriant old-growth forests of Douglas fir and western red cedar. You'll then reach the serene, emerald-hued Lake George, nestled beneath Mount Wow. The highlight is Gobblers Knob, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Tahoma Glacier, Puyallup Glaciers, and on clear days, Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and the Olympic Mountains from its historic fire lookout.

The initial 3.8 miles along Westside Road to Round Pass is wide, well-graded, and has a gradual incline. From Round Pass to Lake George (0.8 miles), the trail continues through the forest with an easy, gradual incline. The final push from Lake George to Gobblers Knob (1.0 to 1.6 miles) becomes significantly steeper, involving short switchbacks and rocky terrain, making the full hike to the lookout a moderate challenge. The total round trip to Gobblers Knob is 11.2 to 13 miles with approximately 2,585 feet of elevation gain.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Gobbler's Knob Trail and the Lake George Trail. Sections of the Emerald Ridge Trail, Klapatche Park Trail, and Klepatchee Park via West Side Road also intersect or run concurrently with parts of this route.

Absolutely! A great insider tip is to bike the initial 3.8-mile stretch of closed Westside Road from Dry Creek to Round Pass. This allows you to cover the less exciting portion quickly and enjoy a fun downhill return. Bike racks are available at the Round Pass trailhead. Another unique feature is the historic 1933-built fire lookout at Gobblers Knob, one of only four remaining in the park, offering unparalleled views.

Yes, Lake George offers attractive wilderness campsites, making it an excellent location for an introductory backpacking trip or an overnight stay. These sites require a wilderness permit from Mount Rainier National Park. There is also a shelter and a historic patrol cabin near the lake.

The segment to Lake George is considered easy to moderate and could be suitable for families with older children, especially if you bike the initial road section. However, the push from Lake George to Gobblers Knob is significantly steeper and more challenging, making the full ascent less ideal for very young children or those new to hiking. Consider your family's fitness level before attempting the full route.

Given the varying terrain and elevation, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, especially for the rocky sections to Gobblers Knob. Trekking poles can be helpful for the steeper ascents and descents. Don't forget sun protection, a map, and navigation tools, as well as a camera for the incredible views.