Emerald Ridge, Klapatche Park & Gobblers Knob

getting there

Drive east on SR 7 (National Park Highway), continuing east when it becomes SR 706.  Enter Mount Rainier National Park and one mile from the entrance, turn left (north) on Westside Road. Drive 3.2 miles to the trailhead (2,900 ft).

on the trail

Emerald Ridge Loop

13.6-mile loop with 3,150 feet of elevation gain, high point 5,600 ft

The trail circles the Emerald Ridge, following a roaring creek to the top of the ridge and down alongside the South Puyallup River.

Klapatche Park

21.4 miles round trip with 4,600 feet of elevation gain, high point 5950 ft

An iconic location on the famed Wonderland Trail! Hike the Westside Road to Round Pass, then follow the South Puyallup River trail to its junction with the Wonderland trail. Follow the Wonderland to St. Andrews Park, and then on to Aurora Lake and Klapatche Park, which is a great spot for lunch with an up close view of Mount Rainier.

Gobblers Knob

11 miles round trip with 2,565 feet of elevation gain, high point 5,485 ft

Walk or bike the Westside road 3.8 miles from Dry Creek (2,900 ft) to the Gobblers Knob trailhead at Round Pass (3,900 ft). Turn left and hike the Gobblers Knob Trail 0.8 mile to Lake George. Continue 1.2 miles the the junction with the Puyallup Trail (No. 248), turn right and hike the steep, rugged 0.4 miles to the lookout at the top of Gobblers Knob (5,485 ft).

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Day Hiking
• Seasons: July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Length: 13.6 mi
• Elevation Gain: 3,150 ft
• High Point: 5,600 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Rainier National Park
• Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12