Mount Ararat (Hard Snow Hike)

Come out for a fun adventure to Mount Ararat in Mt. Rainier National Park!

Distance: 11 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,000 ft.
Difficulty: Hard

Let’s take a trip to another lesser visited mountain with amazing view of Mount Rainier. The trail is fairly long, and gradually gains about 3,000 over 4 miles. Fortunately, this trip follows a well made trail for most of the distance. The final mile takes place off trail as we will have to climb the slow covered slopes to the summit. From the summit, enjoy views of Mount Rainier, including the Kautz and Tahoma glaciers, the nearby Tatoosh range, and possibly further off mountains like Helens and Adams.

We will mostly be following the Kautz Creek Trail, but will need to cut cross country near the end. Here is a gps track with the off-trail portion:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/ascent-of-mount-ararat-on-2025-11-22-2b1da75

Expect a long day (8+ hours on trail), as we don’t know what snow conditions will be like and they may slow us down. In most years, we would definitely need snowshoes. This year, snowshoes optional, but you never know. The final section is potentially steep, so you will want mountaineering boots, an ice axe, and possibly crampons just in case. A helmet is recommended.

Riders should give $20 to their drivers for gas. Bring a plastic bag to place your boots in after the hike. This hike is in the national park, so drivers will need the America the Beautiful Pass, or you can buy a day pass.

Important: I am not a guide, and this is not a guided trip. You and yourself alone are responsible for your own safety. Please be conscious of your abilities before signing up.