Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Trail in Mount Rainier National Park

By Samantha Panzera | June 23, 2023 |

Affiliate Disclosure:This website contains affiliate links including Amazon Links, “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.” which means Adventure Hike Travel may receive a commission when you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements at no additional cost to you. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support Adventure Hike Travel’s ongoing goal to serve you quality Adventure, Hiking and Travel advice and information. Thanks for your support! To learn more, please visit the (Disclaimer page).

Nestled in the heart of Washington state, Mount Rainier National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views, scenic trails, and unforgettable adventures. One of the park's hidden gems is the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower, a historic structure that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Hiking to the tower is a challenging but rewarding journey, taking hikers through lush forests, wildflower meadows, and rocky terrain. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower hike and what hikers can expect along the way.

Quick Facts.

Miles: 5.6 miles, roundtrip

Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet

High Point: 5,900 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

Trail Type: Out-and-Back Trail

Seasons: Hikable usually June - October (Depending on Snow Conditions)

Dogs: No dogs are allowed on this trail

Horses / Stock: No Horses or Stock Are Allowed

Toilets: None at trailhead., There is a vault toilet 0.3 miles down the road at the Mowich Lake campground

Average Time to Hike: 2.5 - 4 hours

Hike Type: Day Hike

Parking Permit: Standard Entrance Pass, Mount Rainier Annual Pass, America the Beautiful Pass

Cell Phone Coverage: None

Maximum Party Size: 12 People

Trailhead: Tolmie Peak Trailhead / Mowich Lake

Distance from Seattle: 2 hours, 5 minutes

Getting To The Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Trailhead

To reach the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower trailhead, take State Route 165 to Mowich Lake Road and follow the signs to Mowich Lake. From there, follow the trail to Eunice Lake and continue on to the fire tower. Be warned, there are about 16-17 miles of poorly maintained unpaved super bumpy rough roads on the way to the trailhead.

Parking at Tolmie Peak

When it comes to parking at Tolmie Peak, there isn't a designated large parking lot for this trail. However, on Google Maps, you can find the trailhead clearly marked as the Tolmie Peak Trailhead. Instead of a traditional parking lot, vehicles can park single file along the side of Mowich Lake Road near the trail's starting point. Rest assured, the road offers ample width to accommodate cars parking along the side, ensuring a convenient and safe parking experience for hikers embarking on the Tolmie Peak adventure.

The Trail to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower

The hike to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower is a moderately challenging but rewarding journey that takes hikers through some of Mount Rainier's stunning landscapes. The hike to Tolmie Peak is approximately 5.6 miles round trip and is rated as moderate to difficult, with an elevation gain of over 1,100 feet.

From the parking area, you begin your hike by heading north on the Wonderland Trail. The first 1.5 miles of the trail to Tolmie Peak follow the Wonderland Trail. The Wonderland Trail is a massive 93-mile trail that encircles completely around Mt. Rainier. This relatively flat stretch of trail at the start of your hike along the Wonderland trail goes past beautiful cedars, fir, and western hemlock. Along this gradual path, You can see the stunning crystal clear blue-green waters through the dense forest of Mowich Lake. The trail hugs the western shoreline giving you lots of sneak peeks at this gorgeous lake.

The Trail begins to steadily climb up away from Mowich Lake and you begin to encounter gorgeous rocky cliffs and get sweeping views of hills filled with green trees below.

After hiking along the Wonderland Trail for 1.5 miles, climbing away from Mowich Lake, you will reach Ipsut Pass. At Ipsut Pass there is a sign marking the turnoff for Eunice Lake and Tolmie Peak. Here you break off from the Wonderland Trail and start heading towards Eunice Lake and the Tolmie Peak Lookout. You will head down and lose some elevation before encountering some switchbacks.

Explore the beauty of Mount Rainier National Park! Discover the hidden gem, Tolmie Peak Fire Tower, offering panoramic views. This challenging hike rewards you with lush forests, wildflower meadows, and rocky terrain. #MountRainier #TolmiePeak #Hiking

After continuing down the trail you will begin to get your first views of the sharp craggy rockface of the cliff towering above Eunice Lake. But if you look at the top of the cliff you can spot the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout. My friend and I paused a good long minute here where we questioned whether we were on the right trail to the Fire tower or not. Because there was no way we were going up that large cliff right??? Fortunately, we were on the right trail and the path wraps around that cliff and we come up from the side.

At 0.8 miles from the Ipsut Pass turn off and shortly after you will start to see the sheer cliffside with Tolmie Peak Lookout and you will reach a gorgeous lake called Eunice Lake. This is a beautiful area filled with wildflowers in the summer, wild huckleberries to eat, and bright orange colors in the fall. Whatever time of year that you visit this is a stunning area. This beautiful blue-green lake is a great spot to have a snack or go for a swim before continuing to the fire tower.

After Passing by the beautiful Eunice Lake you will begin a steady 1-mile final climb to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower. The trail has 4 long switchbacks and some gorgeous views. As you climb you begin to get stunning views of Eunice Lake below with the stunning giant of Mt. Rainier looming in the background. You also get sweeping vistas of the entire Carbon River Valley below.

After hiking up 1 mile from Eunice Lake and reaching an elevation of 5,900 feet you will arrive at the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout. You can go up the fire tower sit and eat your lunch, snap some pics and take in the gorgeous views.

Passes Needed to Hike The Tolmie Peak Fire Tower

The Tolmie Peak Lookout is located within Mount Rainier National Park which means to do this hike you will need either a Standard Entrance Pass, a Mount Rainier National Park Annual Pass, or an America the Beautiful Interagency Pass. About 4.5 miles after passing the sign for Mt. Rainier National Park there will be a fee station on the right-hand side. You can stop and fill out an envelope and pay the $30 entrance fee or you can pay ahead of time online.

Standard Entrance Pass

The Standard Entrance Pass is basically the day pass for Mount Rainier National Park but is valid for up to 7 consecutive days in the park. This is a great option if you are visiting Mount Rainier National Park for one day or several days in a row. You can purchase the Standard Entrance Pass either at the park entrance or get it online from the National Park Service Website. Prices range from $15-$30.

Private Vehicle (includes all people in the vehicle)
$30.00

Motorcycle
$25.00

Per Person (walk-up, bicycle, horseback)
$15.00

Click Here to get the Standard Entrance pass for your trip to Tolmie Peak

Mount Rainier Annual Pass

If you intend to visit Mount Rainier National Park multiple times within a year, purchasing the Mount Rainier Annual Pass can provide excellent value. Priced at $55, this pass grants entry into the park anytime they are open and is good for one year from the month of purchase. You can also acquire these passes at the Mount Rainier National Park visitor centers, entrance stations, or even online through the National Park Service Website. Opting for the annual pass is a wise choice, ensuring flexibility and savings as you explore the wonders of Mount Rainier National Park on multiple occasions.

Click Here to get the Mount Rainier Annual Pass

America the Beautiful Interagency Pass

The America the Beautiful Interagency Pass for $80 opens doors to a wealth of outdoor adventures across the United States. If your travel plans include visits to multiple national parks, national forests, and lands managed by various agencies like the National Park Service, US Fish & Wildlife, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Army Corps of Engineers, this pass is an excellent choice. Whether you're exploring Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, Mount St. Helens, North Cascades National Park, or any hikes within Washington State's national forests, or if you plan on venturing to national parks throughout the country within a year, the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass is the ultimate pass for you. Embrace the boundless opportunities and embrace the beauty of America's diverse natural landscapes with this comprehensive pass.

Click Here to get the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass

Can You Stay The Night at Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout?

Unfortunately, the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Lookout does not allow people to camp and spend the night. You are not allowed to camp anywhere around the Tolmie Peak area. The closest area where you can spend the night to Tolmie Peak is the Mowich Lake Campground. The Mowich Lake Campground is a first come first serve campground that is open only to tent campers. Although you cannot spend the night at the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower, you can start hiking early morning and catch the sunrise and stay late and catch the last glimpses of sunset before hiking down the trail with headlamps.

How Long is the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout hike?

The Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Lookout trail on average takes people 3-4 hours to complete round trip. This short scenic trip is a beautiful day hike that is an absolute breathtaking gem in Mt. Rainer National Park.

How Hard of a Hike is the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Trail?

When it comes to assessing the difficulty level of the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Trail, it can be described as a moderately challenging hike of medium length. The trail encompasses varied terrain, including sections of elevation gain and rocky pathways, which contribute to the moderate difficulty level. However, with proper preparation and pacing, hikers of moderate fitness levels can certainly tackle this captivating trail leading to the Tolmie Peak fire lookout. It offers a rewarding experience that combines a sense of accomplishment with stunning panoramic views, making it well worth the effort.

When Was The Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Lookout Built?

The Tolmie Peak Fire Tower was built in 1933 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The tower is perched atop a rocky ridge and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, including Mount Rainier itself. Visitors can climb the tower's steps to take in the sweeping vistas and learn about the tower's role in early fire detection and suppression efforts in the park.

Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout History

Constructed in 1933 the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout was built in the traditional architectural style of National Parks. The Tolmie Peak Fire lookout is a two-story structure with sweeping views of Mt. Rainier and Eunice Lake. The upper level of the fire tower serves as a lookout station, while the ground level provides storage space. The design was supervised by Edwin A. Nickel of the NPS Branch of Plans and Designs, adhering to the distinct aesthetics of the era.

The fire lookout derives its name from William Fraser Tolmie, an esteemed member of the Hudson's Bay Company who resided at Fort Nisqually during the early 1800s. Tolmie embarked on a botany expedition along the Puyallup River Valley, accompanied by Native American guides. His journey marked the first non-native footsteps within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park. Known for his amicable relationships with indigenous peoples, Tolmie fostered strong connections during his explorations.

Recognized for its historical significance, the Tolmie Fire Lookout was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March 1991. Today, during the summer months, the lookout is occasionally staffed by dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and efforts to its preservation and maintenance.

Originally in Washington State, there was 750 fire towers but with advancing technology making fire towers obsolete, there are only 93 remaining in the state today.

Back In the 1930s, there were seven fire tower lookouts within the Mount Rainier National Park Boundary. Now out of those 7 original fire towers, Tolmie Peak is one of the four fire lookouts that remain in the park.

Can I Bring My Dog With Me to the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout?

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout trail and cannot come on this adventure. To ensure the preservation of the trail's natural environment and the safety of all hikers, it's important to adhere to this regulation and explore this particular trail without canine companions.

Are Horses or Stock Animals Allowed at Tolmie Peak?

No, horses or stock animals are not allowed on the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower Trail in Mount Rainier National Park. The trail is designated for hiking and foot traffic only. It is important to adhere to the park's regulations and respect the designated trail uses to help preserve the natural environment and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.

Does the Tolmie Peak Trail Have Bathrooms?

Unfortunately at the Tolmie Peak Trailhead, there are no bathrooms. But about 0.3 miles up the road is the Mowich Lake Campground vault toilet. I would advise you to stop in there and use the bathroom before or after your hike to Tolmie Peak if you need a restroom.

When Is The Best Time To Go To The Tolmie Peak Lookout?

Hiking to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower can often be done from June through October when the access road to the trailhead is open depending on snowfall. Check the road status before you go Click Here To See The Live Road Conditions For Mount Rainier

Tips and Recommendations

To make the most of your hike to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower, it's important to come prepared. Here are a few tips and recommendations to help you have a safe and enjoyable journey:

Dress in layers: The weather in Mount Rainier can be unpredictable, so it's important to come prepared for changing conditions. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, and bring plenty of warm layers, rain gear, and sunscreen.

Pack plenty of water and snacks: The hike to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower can be challenging, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Leave no trace: Help preserve the beauty of Mount Rainier National Park by following the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out all trash and leave the park as you found it.
Carry the 10 Essentials.

Let someone know where you are going before you leave on your hike.

Hiking to the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower in Mount Rainier National Park is an unforgettable experience that rewards hikers with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. From the challenging terrain to the historic fire tower, this hike offers something for every adventurer. By following the tips and recommendations provided in this blog post, hikers can stay safe and make the most of their journey. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Mount Rainier National Park and discover the beauty of the Tolmie Peak Fire Tower hike for yourself.

Co-ordinates: 46.9379, -121.8675

Driving Directions for the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout Trailhead

Depart from Puyallup and head east on Highway 410 for approximately 13 miles until you reach the town of Buckley.
Once in Buckley, make a right turn onto Highway 165 and continue your journey, passing through Carbonado.
Beyond the Carbon River Gorge bridge, keep an eye out for Mowich Lake Road, located just outside of town.

Take a right turn onto Mowich Lake Road and be prepared for a roughly 17-mile drive on a dirt road. It's advisable to have a high-clearance vehicle due to the road conditions.
The trailhead will be on the left side of the road, near Mowich Lake.

Note: Please exercise caution and plan accordingly, considering the nature of the dirt road and your vehicle's capabilities. This is one rough bumpy road! I have seen cars on the side of the road having to change their tires after this rough road.

Below are the distances and average travel times (without traffic) from major nearby cities to the Tolmie Peak Trail:

Seattle: Approximately 70 miles, with an average travel time of 2 hours and 5 minutes.

Bellevue: Approximately 69 miles, with an average travel time of 2 hours and 5 minutes.
Renton: Approximately 58 miles, with an average travel time of 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Everett: Approximately 96 miles, with an average travel time of 2 hours and 35 minutes.

Tacoma: Approximately 48 miles, with an average travel time of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Portland: Approximately 186 miles, with an average travel time of 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Please note: The road leading to Tolmie Peak is closed during the winter season. Before embarking on your trip, make sure to check the live road conditions for Mount Rainier to ensure accessibility. Check Now

Want To Fill Your Life With Adventure?

Join our newsletter for an adrenaline-fueled journey! Receive exclusive updates on travel tips, gear reviews, epic hikes, captivating stories, and inspiration to turn your dreams into reality.

Don't just dream it, live it! Get Out There!