Dege Peak
This year has definitely been a whirlwind for a lot of people, including myself. The ups and downs that I have had to deal with so far (I’m not sure if I am grateful that’s mid August already or not). Nonetheless, since I live in the beautiful Washington time, I seized the opportunity to opt outside. And yes, since Mount Rainier is only a couple hours (+30 minutes) away. It was the perfect spot to do a sunset hike after work.
I did some research the night prior to the hike. I’ve seen this hike at a lot of places. I like to use resources like Washington Trails Association and AllTrails. Sometimes if I have a general vicinity, I would literally Google ‘Mount Baker Wilderness’ and there are generally lots of resources that will help you find the perfect hike for you based on your abilities and the time you have. And of course, the distance you are willing to travel. I also love having physical books so I do have a few hiking guides handy on my bookshelf.
Even with the rambling about how I discover hikes, let’s dive right into what this sunset hike at Mount Rainier National Park looks like.
Located just 2 hours and 20 minutes away from Seattle, the Sunrise area is one of the crown jewels of the park. What makes this area so popular is that it acts as the starting point for a lot of the most popular hikes in the park. Fremont Lookout, Summerland, and the Burroughs Mountains - you name it, they are all in the Sunrise area. I opted for a less popular hike because I know Fremont Lookout will be crowded by a ton of people, trying to capture that perfect sunset shot of Rainier. This hike also starts at the big trailhead just before the visitor center. Read the sign and know where you’re going. The sign is useful because it outlines all the hikes that are available in the area, the distance, and the elevation gain.
I got to the parking lot at around 6:30pm. Parking wasn’t a problem as it was later in the night. Also, I think after 5pm, you no longer need to go through the Ranger Station. But keep in mind that there is a self-paying station to pay your fee. It’s important you do this because your fee helps fund these parks and it’s what a National Park a National Park!
Snack Shop at Sunrise in Mount Rainier National Park
August is also the time where all the wildflowers are quite literally in your face. Before you really head out on the path to Dege Peak (which is the hike I did), you’ll hike up a large slope or meadow (however you want to call it) - look back, and yes, Mount Rainier is in your face as well. Sunset hikes are great because the temperature tents to be more forgiving but I almost feel like it is also when the bugs are aggressively hunting for their next victim so definitely bring bug spray with you when you go on an evening hike (or any hike, really).
Wildflowers on the trail
Yes, even more wildflowers on the trail.
The hike wasn’t an intense one either. And the wildflowers and views along the way would make time go back quickly. I’m not a quick hiker either but I did stop A LOT for photos. There were so many photo opportunities on the trail. You’re essentially walking along a ridge and to your right, you are welcomed by massive views of several mountains. This hike is great for families too because there are plenty of spots to take breaks. But the trail could get narrow at times.
I could only identify Mount Adams and Mount Rainier but you get what I mean. As you make your way onwards, a little past mile 1 I would say, you’ll start seeing the other side of the ridge. It’s the classic trees layered on top of lush greens that makes this section a lot more different than what you’ve been seeing on the right side in regards to views. This part of the hike is pretty shaded. Before you make your way up to Dege Peak (the final stretch), you encounter a switchback. I got lucky and saw a mountain goat munching on the side of a mountain. But other than that, I didn’t encounter any more animals until the hike back down. I saw a black fox that was way too close into my comfort zone. Nonetheless, it didn’t try to get close to me either.
The only mountain goat I saw on the hike
Views to the right on the trail
The final stretch gets pretty steep but it isn’t bad. It only lasts for about 0.3 miles and then you’re up at the top of Dege Peak where you get a 360 degree view of Mount Rainier and the entire Sunrise area of the park. Bug spray is especially important up here! I was pretty much attacked by the swarms of mosquitoes. If you’re able to survive them and ignore their existence, the top of Dege Peak is amazing. I was able to enjoy solitude when I got up. The perks of a less popular sunset hike I suppose.
You made it to this view!
Sunsets at Mount Rainier are really something else
You can look back at the road you drove up to get to Sunrise
I enjoyed my moment of solitude and it was time to head back. It took me about 1.5 hours to head up because of the number of times I stopped to take photos. It took me about the same time to hike back down because the light was really starting to change. The sky turned orange, purple, blue, purple - it was truly a spectacular show and Rainier was definitely there to flex. As mentioned, I did encounter a small black fox on the way down. I didn’t even realize it was there until I heard something in the bushes and by the time I turned around, it was just there and staring right back at me. I slowly backed away and good thing I usually hang my keys on my backpack instead of a bear bell. I think it somewhat worked but I wouldn’t just do that for your next hike. Be extra cautious when you’re doing a sunrise or sunset hike because animals do like to come out during dusk. If you’re a solo hiker like me, it’s good to take extra precaution.
This has easily become one of my favorite sunset hikes at Mount Rainier and I can’t wait to go back and do it. I have attached some resources for the hike too if you want more information. I know a lot of people have been opting outside just like myself so you will tend to see crowded trails and parking lots. If something is too full, head to an alternative hike. I know it always seems like you HAVE to do it that day because it’s the only opportunity you have. That’s simply not true. There are so many trails that offer the same types of views. If you’re out in nature, please respect it. Recreate responsibly and leave no trace. And, pack it out. Plus, always back the 10 essentials with you.
Hike: Dege Peak
Where: Sunrise at Mount Rainier National Park
Elevation Gain: 820ft
Distance: 3.1 miles
WTA: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/dege-peak
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/sourdough-ridge-dege-peak-trail
The Leave No Trace Principles (READ BEFORE YOU GO ON YOUR HIKE!)
As always, happy trails!