Spray Park Trail

Spray Park Trail is an easy, 6-mile round-trip hike in the northwest corner of Mount Rainier National Park, usually planned for about 4 hours. The route climbs roughly 1,300 feet and is built around reaching Spray Falls and then entering the subalpine meadows of Spray Park.

Start at the southeast side of the Mowich Lake walk-in campground and follow the approach toward the Spray Park Trail junction. From there, the trail heads east through forested terrain, crosses Lee Creek, and reaches a junction that leads to a spur for Spray Falls.

The Spray Falls portion includes a short side trip—about 0.2 miles to reach the falls—after which the main route climbs via switchbacks up into the first meadows of Spray Park. Expect the meadow terrain to be delicate, so the route stays on the constructed path and avoids trampling around the edges.

At about 1.5 miles from the trailhead, Eagle’s Cliff overlook gives a prominent view of Mount Rainier and the Mowich Glacier. A little later, another short spur provides a good view of Spray Falls before the hike continues deeper into Spray Park.

Spray Park itself is characterized by subalpine meadows and seasonal wildflowers; the trail continues as a longer multi-day option beyond Spray Park, climbing into Seattle Park and later descending toward the Carbon River Valley. For a day hike, turn back when you’ve had enough time in the meadows.

Camping in the area requires wilderness permits, and the trail regulations prohibit pets and bicycles. Fires are prohibited, and water needs treatment before drinking; the route guidance also emphasizes staying on constructed trails and resting on rocks in the meadows to limit impact.

More information: Map, Visitor information, Hiking to Spray Park & Falls: My Beautiful Misadventure | Travelffeine